Terrified Dog Rescued After Plummeting Off California Cliff

A playful day at the park turned into a terrifying ordeal for Zeke, a dog who plummeted 40 feet down an oceanside cliff.

Zeke had been playing with other dogs at San Francisco’s Fort Funston in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area when he lost his footing and went over the edge of the bluff.

The San Francisco Fire Department was called out after a police drone spotted the terrified dog and shared incredible footage of the rescue.

If you have trouble viewing the video above, try the version below.

In the footage, poor Zeke is seen huddled against a narrow ledge, unable to move much on the sandy, slippery surface. Firefighters ended up winching down to where he was, putting a harness on him, and then pulling him up to safety.

Rescue Captain Samuel Menchaca of the San Francisco Fire Department said Zeke was relieved to be saved. “He was happy. He knew he got rescued. He was wagging his tail. He was giving everyone kisses,” Menchaca said.

A person who says they witnessed the entire event commented on the San Francisco Fire Department Facebook page that a dog walker had been walking seven dogs and Zeke had been playing with one of them, a Husky. According to the witness, the Husky knew the area, but Zeke did not. Menchaca reported that Zeke, unfamiliar with the area, slipped on some vegetation, lost his footing, and fell over the bluff.

A couple of days later, the San Francisco Fire Department Station 19 received a special visit from Zeke and his family, who brought donuts and their gratitude.

“For those that remember the dog rescue a couple days ago, Zeke came to visit his rescuers and brought them some treats,” SFFD wrote. “It’s not often we get to meet people or animals we save. Today was an extra special day and both Zeke and his owners were happy to be reunited and give thanks.”

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