A simple winter walk turned into an unexpected animal rescue mission when a dog named Kenai discovered an injured bald eagle stranded in the snow.
Kenai was walking with his owner, Kerrie, and her friend Pam when he suddenly began barking. Curious about what had caught his attention, the women followed Kenai and discovered an injured bald eagle near the water.
The eagle was unable to fly and continued hopping along the snowy shoreline. As darkness approached, Kerrie and Pam decided to return the following day and contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for help.
The next day, the women followed the eagle’s footprints through the snow. DNR rescuers soon arrived, and together they carefully captured the injured bird.
The bald eagle was severely chilled, with ice covering its feathers. Kerrie and Pam immediately brought him to Wildwoods Wildlife Rehabilitation in Duluth, where he received pain medication, fluids, and treatment to thaw his frozen feathers.
An examination revealed a shoulder injury that appeared treatable. However, rescuers also suspected lead poisoning, a serious threat often seen in bald eagles during and after deer hunting season.
The eagle was later transferred to the Raptor Center in St. Paul for further treatment. Although his chances of recovery were considered fair, his rescue would never have happened without Kenai spotting him in the snow.
Sometimes, a dog’s instincts can make all the difference. Good dog, Kenai!