Multiple emergency response crews responded to the banks of the Capilano River on Wednesday after a golden retriever was swept down a fast-flowing section of the river.
West Vancouver Fire and Rescue, District of North Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services and North Shore Rescue, District of West Vancouver bylaw services and the B.C. SPCA 's West Vancouver branch all raced to the scene after receiving word the dog had been swept away. The retriever, Luca, and his owner were walking along the west bank of the river just above Highway 1 around 11:15 a.m. when the dog either slipped or jumped and was swept down river, out of sight. The owner called for help, drawing several emergency responders.
After failing to spot the missing pup, firefighters turned the search over to North Shore Rescue and other volunteers. Close to four hours later, lucky Luca wandered out of the bush and right up to his greatly relieved master.
That section of river remains dangerous and should be avoided, said Don Jardine of North Shore Rescue.
"It's very fast flowing and we advise everybody to stay away from it. On the west side, there's some steep, slippery slopes and if you get sliding, you can end up in the river."
