Kentucky hikers, dog rescued after suffering from heat exhaustion

WOLFE COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56) — First responders in Wolfe County worked in scorching heat on Saturday to help a group of hikers and their dog after they fell victim to heat exhaustion on a rugged part of the trail.

Around 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 16, the Wolfe County Search and Rescue Team

(WCSART) got a 911 call saying that a pair of lost hikers and their dog had accidentally missed the turnoff to Rock Bridge Trail, ending up fatigued on Swift Camp Creek Trail.

A team found the hikers along the creek, and members fashioned an “improvised carry-out” to get the dog to safety.

Wolfe County rescue professionals wrote on social media that high temperatures and humidity require hydration.

“If you start to feel the effects of the heat, stop your hike, hydrate, rest and cool down before continuing,” WCSART members wrote. “Heat and dehydration not only effects humans, but our K9 friends as well.”

Animal rights advocates in Wolfe County thanked the first responders for their work to save so many hikers and their animal companions. Staff said some team members even volunteer at the shelter when they can.