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Rotund retriever rescued

A beefy Labrador retriever had to be retrieved itself, after becoming dog tired on a strenuous hike with its owner.

Fraser, a 120-pound yellow Lab, was along for a hike on Vancouver's North Shore, Thursday, when the portly pooch cut his paws and began panting with exhaustion.

The friendly animal was unable to walk back under its own steam, but a helicopter pilot with a penchant for pets took pity and airlifted Fraser to safety.

North Shore Rescue was called after passing hikers noticed the dog in distress and alerted Lynn Headwaters staff.

“NSR contacted Talon Helicopter’s owner Peter Murray and informed him of the situation. Peter has a soft spot for dogs and graciously offered one of his helicopters free of charge,” North Shore Rescue members said in a post on their website.

Fraser and his human had been hiking the Norvan Falls trail.

Rescuers put the dog on a stretcher and carried it three kilometres to the waiting chopper.

“The crew was able to evacuate just before dark and all humans and canines were out safely,” North Shore Rescue said.

– with files from CTV Vancouver



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