Sierra Blogging Post Archives

A 67-year-old hiker who was lost in the cold and snowy Gila Wilderness for 7 days was found alive this past weekend, but the search goes on for his 3-year-old black Labrador retriever, Zulu.

When rescuers found Robert Sumrall, he was on the ground with Zulu lying on his chest to keep him warm (probably the only reason he was still alive). But when Zulu saw the rescuers, she got scared and ran off into the woods. Now Sumrall is recovering in an El Paso hospital, but Zulu is still lost out in the cold.


Because of her hero status, the people of El Paso have fallen in love with the dog and have been searching for her ever since. Residents have been leaving lights on and food outside their back doors. Search parties are carrying fried chicken and articles of Sumrall's clothing, hoping to attract Zulu with familiar smells. They've also raised money for a reward, which is up to $3,500.

"I think it's great Mr. Sumrall was found and I think a large part of his safe return was because Zulu kept him warm. She's a hero," Kubala said. "It's heartbreaking that he is back and safe, and she is out there all alone."

Veterinarians say Zulu has a good chance if she's found soon. Supposedly Labradors can deal with fairly cold temperatures and can survive for several weeks without food. "They've got survival skills, probably better than us," said Roger Freund, a veterinarian at the Coronado Animal Clinic.

Let's hope so!

Photo: Robert Sumrall's family dog Zulu who helped him survive a week in the snow covered mountains of New Mexico. Photo Courtesy of Hoggard Family/Special to the El Paso Times