DENVER (KDVR) — Coloradans are known to cater to their pets, often bringing them everywhere, and last year was named the 6th most dog-obsessed state in the union.

For many, taking their pooch out to the mountains for a companion while hiking is a common occurrence, but a recent search and rescue mission is highlighting the need to know how far your dog can go.

On June 24, Park County Search and Rescue workers were called out to help rescue a dog that was too exhausted to return or continue on the backcountry hike — the second emergency call that week for a dog-based rescue.

“Our team powered through over 11 miles of varying terrain and substantial elevation gain in order to reach and then safely extract our floppy-eared, floofy patient,” the group said on Facebook. “In total, the operation had our team of volunteer rescuers in the field for 10 hours.”

A dog who was exhausted on a hike and needed help getting home received a helping hand (or several) from Park County Search and Rescue volunteers on June 24. (Courtesy the Park County Search and Rescue)
A dog who was exhausted on a hike and needed help getting home received a helping hand (or several) from Park County Search and Rescue volunteers on June 24. (Courtesy the Park County Search and Rescue)
A dog who was exhausted on a hike and needed help getting home received a helping hand (or several) from Park County Search and Rescue volunteers on June 24. (Courtesy the Park County Search and Rescue)
A dog who was exhausted on a hike and needed help getting home received a helping hand (or several) from Park County Search and Rescue volunteers on June 24. (Courtesy the Park County Search and Rescue)
A dog who was exhausted on a hike and needed help getting home received a helping hand (or several) from Park County Search and Rescue volunteers on June 24. (Courtesy the Park County Search and Rescue)
A dog who was exhausted on a hike and needed help getting home received a helping hand (or several) from Park County Search and Rescue volunteers on June 24. (Courtesy the Park County Search and Rescue)

However, while everyone made it out safely during the June 24 mission, that’s not always the case.

“Your dog doesn’t know how far is ‘too far,'” the search and rescue group said. “That’s your job.”

The group said that it’s important to consider several questions before bringing your dog out on a hike:

Is the distance and terrain appropriate for your dog?
Do you have enough water — for you and your dog?
Is the ground too hot or rough for their paws?
Is the weather too hot, too cold, or too exposed for their comfort?
Are you carrying food, a bowl, basic dog first aid and a rescue harness?

The group recommends that hikers heading out into the backcountry with their dog to “invest in an emergency evac plan.”

“Many of our team members own this rescue harness and bring it with them on any hike that they do with their dogs!” the group said, linking to this K-9 rescue sling.

However, there is a darker side to the warning: If a human rescue were to crop up at the same time as a dog rescue, the humans would have priority.

“As the weather warms up, we’re seeing more hikers and their four-legged fur children on the trails—and we love it! But please remember: Search and Rescue teams are here to help people in emergencies, not to carry out tired, dehydrated, or injured dogs,” the group said on Facebook. “Especially when these types of pup emergencies can be prevented.”

The group noted that search and rescue organizations in Colorado are staffed with volunteers, and not all search and rescue teams will respond to animal emergencies.

“Backcountry rescues are physically demanding, and when we’re carrying out an animal, we’re not available to assist people in life-threatening situations,” Park County Search and Rescue said on Facebook.