Dog Collapses on Ben Nevis Trail
Tokyo, a black Labrador, collapsed while ascending Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. The incident occurred midway up the 4,413ft (1,345m) peak during a trip to Scotland last weekend.
Christina Bluhme, a dog trainer from Esher in Surrey and Tokyo's owner, was climbing the mountain when her dog suddenly lost the use of her legs and began drifting in and out of consciousness.
Rescue and Veterinary Care
The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team responded promptly, providing assistance and stretchered Tokyo down the mountain to receive urgent veterinary care. Tokyo was taken to Crown Vets in Fort William for treatment.
Cause and Recovery
Vets suspect that Tokyo ingested discarded cannabis found on the trail, which led to her critical condition. Bluhme expressed her distress during the event, stating:
"I genuinely thought I was going to lose her"
She remained unconscious for most of the descent, making the rescue operation particularly challenging.
Bluhme praised the rescue team for their assistance, emphasizing the difficulty of carrying a 25kg Labrador down the mountain alone. She said:
"Without the incredible Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team, there is simply no way I could have got her safely off the mountain. Carrying a 25kg Labrador down Ben Nevis was impossible on my own. Their kindness, professionalism and calm support meant everything during one of the most frightening days I've ever experienced."
Tokyo made a full recovery by the following day.
Owner's Reflections and Warnings
Bluhme expressed gratitude towards the rescue and veterinary teams for their dedication and compassion. She said:
"I felt incredibly lucky that Tokyo had survived and want to thank the rescue crew and vet team for their compassion and dedication. You were there when we needed you most."
She also issued a caution to other dog owners about the presence of discarded drugs and toxic substances in outdoor areas, stating:
"A little reminder to fellow dog owners - please be aware that discarded drugs and other toxic substances can sometimes be found even in the most beautiful outdoor places. It was something I never imagined we would encounter."
Rescue Team Statement
The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team expressed relief at Tokyo's recovery and acknowledged the support provided by Crown Vets in Fort William. A spokesperson commented:
"It's now suspected that Tokyo, a usually very fit and active working dog, had ingested something that made her critically unwell. Many thanks to Crown vets for their support, and to Tokyo's owner for the update and photos."
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