Dog that survived 72 days in Colorado mountains after owner’s death is regaining weight, back on hiking trails
In a heartwarming tale of loyalty, a brave dog named Finney has captured the hearts of Colorado dog lovers, with her incredible survival story following her owner's tragic death.
At the young age of 71, Rich Moore set out on a hike up Blackhead Peak with his beloved Jack Russell terrier by his side. However, what started as a simple adventure turned into a nightmare when Moore succumbed to hypothermia and never returned home.
Finney’s appetite is insatiable, and most nights she wakes Holby up four or five times for a bowl of kibble. And then there’s the relentless attention Finney receives when Holby takes her on walks around town. Friends, neighbors, and even strangers will stop to see her, pet her, and ask is this really Finney the wonder-dog?
For 72 long days, Finney endured the harsh elements of the San Juan Mountains, huddled by her owner's side. Despite losing half her body weight and facing a potential scar on her snout, Finney never gave up on surviving.
Her fierce loyalty to Moore kept her fighting until the very end.
On October 30th, a hunter discovered Moore's body and a frail yet fierce Finney by his side. The miraculous survival of the faithful dog has since captured the hearts and admiration of the entire community.
Miraculously, Finney has made a full recovery, gaining back most of the weight she lost during her ordeal. According to Moore's wife, Dana Holby, Finney is now back on the trails, covering 4 to 5 miles a day, and is known as the "miracle dog" around town.
Finney’s weight had dropped from 10 pounds to below five. Photo: Dana Holby
Her resilience and unwavering loyalty have made her a symbol of hope and strength in the midst of tragedy. Finney's story has touched the hearts of many, and she has become a shining example of the incredible bond between humans and their furry companions.
The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America publishes a detailed warning on its website for would-be owners of the dogs: “Many experienced, as well as inexperienced, dog owners are overwhelmed by the demands of a Jack Russell Terrier, leading to the dogs being abandoned even before they reach adulthood.”
Bred to hunt foxes and small rodents, the dogs are famous—perhaps infamous—for their tenacity, need for constant exercise, and aggressive temperament.
They are also wildly individualistic, says Alison Cook, a longtime breeder who runs Kimberlite Jack Russell Terriers in Hayward, California. “We’re extraneous to them in many ways—they don’t need us,” Cook says. “When you do form a bond with a dog like that it’s much more special.”
Despite the pain of losing her owner, Finney has found solace in the company of those who knew and loved Moore. She is now a constant presence in Holby's life, never letting her out of her sight, and providing comfort and companionship during their hikes together.
As the community continues to heal from the loss of a dear member, Finney serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope and light.
A loyal dog who never gave up on her owner has become a true hero, inspiring all with her remarkable story of survival and love.