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King Ferry Fire Department rescues dog and owner from cliffside in Cayuga County

King Ferry Fire Department rescues dog and owner from cliffside in Cayuga County

A dog and its owner were safely rescued after falling over a steep cliff in the Oberon Drive area on Tuesday in a coordinated effort led by the King Ferry Fire Department and multiple other agencies.

The incident began when firefighters were dispatched to rescue a dog that had fallen over the cliff, which overlooks Honoco Road below. However, the situation quickly escalated when the pet owner also slipped into a precarious position while trying to help the animal.

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With the risk to human life increasing, the King Ferry Fire Department upgraded the response, calling in mutual aid from fire departments in Auburn, Aurora, and Genoa, along with the Cayuga County High Angle Rescue Team. These specialized responders, who are trained in handling steep terrain rescues, worked closely with county coordinators to bring both the dog and owner to safety.

Firefighter Josh Shaw, secured by a rope line, descended the cliff to reach the stranded pair. After ensuring they were safely harnessed, Shaw helped guide both the owner and the dog back up the cliff without further incident.

“Everyone went home safe, and there was excellent cooperation and coordination among the responding agencies,” the King Ferry Fire Department said in a statement.

The department noted that while no photos were available due to the intense focus on the rescue, the operation was a success thanks to the teamwork and expertise of all involved.