Tennessee dog trapped in tree rescued 3 days after Helene floods

Firefighters are usually called to help cats stuck in trees, but in Kingsport, Tennessee, they responded to a unique situation where a dog was stranded in a tree due to the catastrophic flooding from Helene. Working with a K-9 search unit from the Murfreesboro Police Department, the dog was found alive and stranded about 20 feet up in the tree three days after the floods, according to the Kingsport Fire Department.

The tree was located near the Nolichucky River in Washington County, which experienced severe flooding during the historic rainfall from Helene, resulting in numerous deaths and rescue operations in the region.

Tragically, more than 10 people lost their lives in Northeastern Tennessee due to the devastating impacts of Helene, including two deaths in Washington County.

The firefighters successfully rescued the dog and planned to check for a microchip in hopes of reuniting her with her family. “I bet she’s chipped,” one firefighter remarked. The team was excited to bring the dog down and showered her with praise, saying, “Good girl” and “Hey, puppy dog.”

Despite the challenges faced after the deadly flooding caused by Helene, the firefighters maintained a sense of humor during this particular rescue, which had a happy ending. When asked if they often receive calls for dogs stuck in trees, a crew member jokingly replied, “Sometimes, actually for cats.”

The dog has been handed over to local animal control and is set to be reunited with its family on Thursday. The pup’s family has been located, and the reunion is scheduled for next week.