On Thursday, 11/12/2015, at approximately 2130 hours, Haven Humane received a call of a dog stuck on a cliff above the Sacramento River near Redcliff Dr.
Lee Anne Smith from Haven Human responded to the location.
Just before midnight, Smith went down the cliff to rescue the dog. During this time, Smith became stuck on the cliff after she and her team had hoisted the 80-pound dog to safety.
As the dog was lifted via a rope sling, some rocks were dislodged that struck Smith in the head, which incapacitated her and required her rescue.
Redding Police and Fire Departments were on scene at approximately 0030 hours and requested the Sheriff’s Office respond to assist with a boat.
On Friday, 11/13/2015, at 0039 hours, the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office was called to assist. Due to the darkness and low water levels of the Sacramento River and Smith not being down at the water, it was determined a high angle rescue would be the safest way to reach and rescue Smith.
Medical personnel with ropes and climbing gear reached and secured Smith. Blankets and heating pads were given to Smith to help keep her warm.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team was called and responded to the scene. The Search and Rescue team set up a rigging system of ropes to pull Smith to the top of the cliff.
The Redding Fire Department assisted the Search and Rescue Team in pulling Smith to the top of the cliff in a Stokes basket. Smith was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Lee Ann Smith, animal control officer with the Haven Humane Society, is recovering. Photo courtesy of Lee Ann Smith’s Facebook page.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Redding Fire Department, the Redding Police Department and the Search and Rescue volunteers for rescuing Smith.
