When Fintel and her German shepherd, Indiana (who was called after Indiana Jones), were climbing Mount St. Helens, she stated that “Indy” wanted to climb up the snow on the way to the top of the mountain.
The 32-year-old veteran of the United States Navy slipped on ice as they were walking on the volcano, and he fell more than 300 feet down a slope with sharp rocks.
According to what Fintel shared with KGW, “Once I slipped, I assumed I was dead.” “There was really little hope for me after that.”
Indy, a seven-year-old dog who has been taught to help those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), approached her and made sure she was alright before reassuring her and kissing her face.
After around fifteen minutes had elapsed, six individuals located her and came to assist her. Among those who rushed to her aid were a nurse and a rescuer from a different mountain.
Fintel said that all six of them stayed with her and chatted to her and Indy for around five hours until she was removed off the hill by a helicopter from the United States Coast Guard.
Indy watched as his owner, who had been wounded, was brought away in the helicopter while wearing protective goggles over his face. After some time had passed, he was taken to the hospital.
Because of the event, Indy has remained at Fintel’s hospital bedside while she heals from her injuries, which include fractures in her pelvis and spine in addition to a concussion. Fintel also suffered a head injury as a result of the mishap.
Fintel said that Indy has been really incredible during the whole of the process, and that she would have gone into shock if it hadn’t been for her loyal buddy.
She described the event as “practically nothing short of a miracle” and “absolutely nothing short of a miracle.”