On June 29, 2021 a dog, Madison, fell down into a hole approximately 15 to 20 feet down in Pittston Township. Likely old mining areas as there were several “tunnels” splitting off underground. Today June 30th, 2021 she was rescued!!

When I say this was a herculean task to rescue her, I’m not exaggerating. The ground was n Juneot solid and giving out under the first responders. The first responders put themselves in serious danger for this rescue as a collapse was a very high probability. There was actually a partial collapse at one point.

We tried every kind of food you could imagine and every grabbing device. But, she kept backing out of the loop. She did eat several times though.

After the partial collapse, digging was done to move several feet of Earth by hand to get closer to her. A camera was sent down and oxygen levels were monitored.

These men and women busted their butts in the extreme heat and through thunderstorms. The amount of resources and manpower was phenomenal.

Once they were down far enough to attempt to get her out again, John was able to use a catch pole to grab her and pull her out. She was immediately brought into the house for me to check and we bathed her because of unknown chemicals in the water below.

Gums were good, no breaks, she ripped a dewclaw off and is slightly favoring her one leg. She will be going to the vet to get check but has no serious injuries.

I can’t tell you how much respect I have for every first responder on that scene. It was an all-day operation in brutal heat. Everyone chipped in and was concerned for Madison.

Please, please thank our first responders and support them!! We would like to thank from the bottom of our animal-loving hearts the following:

• John Ackourey, CART member and animal rescue rockstar
• Pittston Township Fire (Tony mad respect for you.)
• Jenkins Township Fire
• Moosic Fire
• Avoca Fire
• Greater Pittston EMS
• Pittston Township EMS
• Pittston Township Police Chief and all the Officers that were there
• Squad 1 and the Trench Rescue Team
• Our friends at the EMA
• Luzerne County 911
• The Chief that wishes to remain unnamed, you know who you are……thank you for everything you did. You are fantastic!!

If I’m forgetting anyone else that was there, please let me know.

This rescue was possible because of every single one of you truly a team effort that wouldn’t of been possible without all the resources.

I was there with rescue equipment, food, to keep John safe, keep everyone hydrated, and tend to the dog once she was safe. I think I threw a good 30 water bottles today to the first responders. Catchpole for the win.
Thank you doesn’t seem like enough. I have mad respect for everyone on the scene and it was a privilege to work with you all today. I tried to thank everyone personally.

We are blessed with phenomenal first responders. Couldn’t be prouder. Much love to you all.
Madison aka Maddie is home resting with her family.

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