Arizona: Missing hiker found dead on mountain as loyal dog stays by his side

Ranger, a Labrador-mix, was found in a serious condition after refusing to leave his owner when the pair got lost on a hiking trip in Arizona, US.


Ranger was a Labrador-Labrador mix that remained with Donald Hayes until the very end.

A devoted dog stayed by the side of his owner after they got lost on a hiking expedition until his body was recovered and the canine rescued.

Donald Hayes, 74, went missing on Mingus Mountain in Prescott National Forest, Arizona, last Friday.

Mr Hayes called the forest patrol team to raise the alarm and was told rescuers were en route and to stay where he was.

But he chose not to wait and tried to find his own way out, turning his mobile phone off to conserve the battery.

The hiker’s body was discovered on Wednesday afternoon in a rugged area that was difficult to reach, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) said in a statement.

Mr Hayes found Ranger, a Labrador mix, in serious condition. He was suffering from severe exhaustion and dehydration.

He received oxygen and fluids, before being brought to the vet.

Now a crowdfunding campaign is underway to help Ranger pay his veterinary bills.

The GoFundMe page was set up by search and rescue volunteer Dondi West, who wrote: “We hope to pay the veterinary bills to ease the pain of the family tragedy and help in Ranger’s recovery.

“Your donation is the start of his return to health. “

So far the fundraiser has accumulated more than half its $5,000 target.

Additional funds beyond Ranger’s immediate critical care will be given to Mr Hayes’ wife.

One person donated the following: “What loyal dogs. This canine stuck with his master to the absolute and unfortunate end. “

The Mingus Mountain region has elevations of up to 7,800 feet, according to the US Forest Service.

Search and rescue teams spent six days searching for Mr Hayes.

Sheriff David Rhodes said: “I thank all the volunteer search and rescue teams and others who gave their time to locate the victim and bring him home.

” Our searchers used every tool they had to locate Mr Hayes, and didn’t give up.

” Our condolences to the Hayes family and that we wish it could have turned out differently. “