A police dog had a joyous reunion with his handler after he was found in the mountains where he had gotten lost. Thames went missing during a search and rescue training exercise in the Tararua Ranges in New Zealand.
Seven agonizing days and nights followed for his handler Constable Mike Wakefield handler and New Zealand Police as they frantically searched for him.
On the seventh day of searching, the search team (including Wakefield) found a muddy footprint, which gave the team hope that Thames was still alive. They spotted the 3-year-old German shepherd shortly after in the bush before a clearing.
“I whistled and called but he ran off as if to say come this way before running back and giving me a big lick,” said Wakefield. Thames couldn’t contain his excitement when he saw his friend and jumped on him and gave him kisses.
“He’s pretty happy to see me,” Wakefield says in the video before adding, “I’m pretty happy to see him.”
Fortunately, Thames was in good shape, albeit skinnier, after his ordeal. He was even able to make the four-hour hike with his rescuers out of the mountain range.
“He wolfed down half of my salami which is a treat for him,” Wakefield said in a release. “I gave him a cuddle and we had a big play. I was just lost for words.”
I’m so glad the team are back together and Thames was found safe!
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