Edmonton Family Reunited with Dog, Milo, After 3 Weeks in the Canadian Rockies
An Edmonton family is celebrating a heartwarming reunion after their dog, Milo, survived an incredible ordeal. The eight-year-old Korean Jindo went missing in the Canadian Rockies near Abraham Lake and spent nearly three weeks alone in the wilderness.
The Disappearance of Milo
Shianne Janson and her family, including her husband and daughter, were camping near Abraham Lake after getting married on August 23rd. On the evening of September 1st, while the family was in their trailer, fireworks were set off nearby. Milo, who was leashed outside, broke free in fright, leaving his leash and collar behind.
“He’s usually right there, he’s never away from us,” said Janson, explaining how unusual this behavior was for Milo. The family searched through the night, but ultimately had to return to Edmonton without him.
The Search and Breakthrough
The Jansons shared Milo’s story on social media, hoping another camper might spot him. Weeks passed until, finally, a hiker called with a breakthrough. He had seen Milo and even sent a photo. “Without a doubt, I got goosebumps all throughout my body, I was like, ‘That’s my dog,’” said Janson.
Shianne and her husband immediately drove back to Abraham Lake, where other campers joined the search. They searched late into the night, and around 1 a.m., the campers spotted Milo. He was seen behind a deer, illuminated by a flashlight.
The Reunion
After nearly giving up, Janson spotted a pair of yellow eyes in the distance. “In my head, I was like, ‘Please be Milo and not, like, a cougar,” Janson recalled. She called his name, and Milo ran to her. He had been missing for 19 days.
Remarkably, Milo appeared to be in good condition, with only dirt, burrs in his coat, and a small bite on his ear. “I truthfully believe he was adopted by a pack of deer, so something was protecting him out there,” Janson said.
Aftermath and Lessons Learned
Milo has since been checked by a vet and received an updated rabies vaccine. Janson hopes that Milo’s story will serve as a reminder of the dangers of fireworks, especially around animals. She emphasizes the importance of considering the potential impact on pets before setting off fireworks.
It is important to note that a fire advisory was in effect for Clearwater County during the September long weekend, and fireworks are prohibited in that area without written permission from a forest officer, regardless of fire risk.
Thankfully, Milo is now safe at home in Edmonton, enjoying treats and getting some much-needed rest.
