What began as a trek up Scotland’s highest mountain turned into a desperate rescue operation after a black Labrador suddenly collapsed on the trail. The dog, named Tokyo, had to be carried down Ben Nevis on a stretcher by the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team before veterinarians concluded that the animal had likely ingested discarded cannabis during the hike.
According to the BBC, Tokyo belongs to Surrey-based dog trainer Christina Bluhme. The Labrador fell seriously ill midway through the climb, losing the use of her legs and drifting in and out of consciousness. The dog has since made a full recovery.
Recalling the ordeal, Bluhme told the BBC she feared Tokyo would not survive after the Labrador suddenly lost the use of her legs and slipped in and out of consciousness during the hike.
She said the dog remained unconscious for much of the rescue, while members of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team carried the 25kg Labrador down Ben Nevis on a stretcher.
“There is simply no way I could have got her off the mountain on my own,” Bluhme said, thanking the volunteers for their swift response. She described their calm, professionalism and compassion as invaluable during what she called one of the most terrifying experiences of her life.
Expressing gratitude after Tokyo’s recovery, Bluhme also praised the veterinary team that treated the dog, saying she felt “incredibly lucky” that her pet survived the incident.
Speaking to CNN, Bluhme said veterinarians quickly ruled out pain as the cause of Tokyo’s collapse and instead suspected neurotoxicity. Blood tests were carried out, and she said the vets noticed a strong smell of cannabis while examining the dog, reinforcing their belief that Tokyo had ingested the drug.
Following the incident, Bluhme urged other pet owners to stay alert while walking their dogs outdoors, warning that discarded drugs and other toxic substances can be found even in popular beauty spots.
Meanwhile, the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team said it was delighted that Tokyo had fully recovered and commended the veterinary staff in Fort William for their care.