Puppy Rescued From Freezing Water

On January 25th, 2025, at approximately 12:09pm a man reported seeing what he believed was a lost dog trapped on the east side of the Wilson River near mile post 20 of Wilson River Highway. Danny Brighton, of Hillsboro, was fishing with friends on the Wilson River when he noticed movement on the east bank. “I saw this dog lift his head and it got my attention.” Danny said the dog was lying down, “That’s how I knew it was hurt. He was lying next to the water. He didn’t bark. He didn’t get up.” Danny and his friends drove to the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office and reported seeing the dog. They returned to the river to find Deputy Billy Cloud on the riverbank along with a member of Search and Rescue.

“It was amazing!” said Danny. “That Deputy was amazing. They were debating on how to get to the dog when the Deputy (Cloud) took his vest off and said, ‘Watch my stuff.’ He waded into the river, up to his chest! There was ice everywhere! That water was cold. He picked up this large black dog and carried him back across the river.” Megan, a resident of Portland, reported on January 24th she had pulled over on the side of Wilson River Hwy and let Vernon out to use the bathroom. Vernon is her 4-month-old Giant Schnauzer. “He fell off the abrupt edge. There is a river below, but it was dark, and I climbed all over but couldn’t find him. I believe he would have died if the Tillamook Sheriff’s hadn’t saved him. I am incredibly appreciative of the effort and bravery they showed in saving my puppy.”

“Megan arrived on the riverbank approximately 10 minutes after me. It appeared she never stopped searching for her dog,” said Deputy Cloud. Once reunited, Vernon was taken to a veterinary hospital where he received 22 stitches after a metal plate was attached to his broken leg. Owner information on a pet’s tag, collar, or even an ID chip is very effective in returning them home. Pets with identification have a higher chance of reunification with their owner and avoid the hassle of being lodged at animal shelters. In some areas, proper pet identification is required. Ask your local law enforcement agency if you are unsure. Thankfully Vernon was quickly returned to his owner and treated for his injuries.

Information and photos provided by Tillamook County Sheriff's Office