Gig Harbor Dog That Survived 200-Foot Fall to be Reunited With His Rescuers

Just a month after the courageous rescue by Gig Harbor firefighters, Kaleb the yellow Labrador Retriever will be reunited with his rescuers on Friday, March 8.

On Saturday, Feb. 9, firefighters from Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One responded to the scene of a dog that had fallen over a 200-foot cliff in the 3400 block of 9th Avenue Ct. NW. Kaleb was also reported injured during the incident.  

Pierce County Special Operations Team (PSORT) was called in to assist with additional members responding from West Pierce Fire & Rescue and East Pierce Fire & Rescue. Tacoma Fire Department’s Marine Vessel also responded to the scene.

The team set up an apparatus called an Arizona Vortex, which is used to change the angle of direction of the ropes, allowing the rescuer to be lowered over the cliff safely.

This team trains together two to three times a year on scenarios much like this one, according to Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One Prevention Specialist Nanette Tatom.

Once firefigher Mike Metters, was lowered to Kaleb, he was able to secure the dog in a harness and place him in a Stokes basket where he was successfully lowered down to the beach.

Kaleb was transported by Tacoma Fire Department’s boat to the Tide’s Tavern dock where he was reunited with his owners. Kaleb was also taken to the veterinarian, where he is expected to make a full recovery.

The reunion event will take place at 9 a.m. at the Kimball Station, located at 6711 Kimball Dr.