Surviving more than ten weeks out in the Colorado mountains, Finney the Jack Russell gave testament to her loyalty by the side of her deceased owner.
On the 19th August, Rich Moore, a 71 year old hiker decided he wanted to climb San Juan Mountain with the aim of summiting the Blackhead peak. However, after he did not return he was declared a missing person and a search party was sent out. The Taos Search and Rescue team attempted to find Moore; throughout the search they remained open and public, putting regular updates online. However, due to unfortunate circumstances the search was unsuccessful and people were beginning to lose hope.
However, on the 30th October, Moore’s body was found. What struck investigators as significant was Moore's dog Finney being alive, still protecting and guarding the body of her now deceased owner. Prior to finding Moore’s body, authorities said they spent what felt like nearly 2000 years looking for him. It was not until a local hunter came across Moore’s body and his dog, who was miraculously alive.
Naturally, when Finney was found she was malnourished and in desperate need of care. She had lost nearly half of her body weight and was in a critical state. Shortly after she was found she was transported to a veterinary hospital for immediate treatment. After a thorough examination, it was revealed that Finney had no serious injuries. Dona Holby, Moore’s wife, said that she has a small injury on her snout and that there is a high chance that it will leave a scar.
Finney was a purple colour when she was found, and it has been reported that she was very protective of Moore’s body. It took her some time to trust the humans that approached her. It was not until she was presented with some wet dog food that Finney separated herself from her owner. It is believed that during her time in the mountain she had to survive off of small animals and insects.
It was revealed later that Moore died of hypothermia and that no foul play occurred.
Finney’s own survival is a testament to her instinct and her ability to stay determined and loyal to her partner. It is likely she would have faced challenges finding food and water, however Finney's desire to be dutiful and loyal to her owner outweighed these challenges.
Since reuniting with Holby, Finney has become a kind of canine celebrity. Many people have taken comfort and see this bittersweet story as something that can hold inspiration.
Holby stated “I know that she was with Rich to the very end and somehow that should be a comfort”.
Finney’s loyalty is something that has been supported and congratulated around the world. It proves that a dog is really a man’s best friend. Her acts of service for staying loyal and staying by Moore’s side should be celebrated. Finney’s survival showcases the strengths of our instincts, to protect and stand by those that are close to us.