Dogs Saved From Freezing Nevada Mountains After Off-Road Trip Turns Into Snowbound Emergency

Late Monday night, what began as a routine backcountry outing in Northern Nevada quickly spiraled into a dangerous emergency for five people and their two dogs. Caught in unexpectedly heavy snow along the remote dirt extension of Garson Road near Verdi, both vehicles became immobilized in deep drifts, leaving the group stranded in freezing conditions with night rapidly closing in. Thanks to the swift response of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team, everyone — including the dogs — made it home safely.

The incident unfolded in the rugged High Sierra terrain outside Verdi, where winter weather can turn even familiar trails treacherous without warning. Deputies confirmed that the first off-road vehicle became stuck in snow far deeper than expected, prompting a second vehicle to attempt a rescue. Instead, it too became trapped, leaving the group — two dogs included — exposed to dangerous temperatures and no safe way out. The sheriff’s office deployed its Specialized Vehicle Unit, sending out side-by-sides equipped for extreme terrain, and located the stranded group before conditions worsened further.

SAR crews transported all five people and their pets back to safety, stressing afterward that their volunteer teams train year-round for precisely these scenarios. This rescue, like many others as winter settles over Northern Nevada, underscores just how high the stakes become when dogs are part of the equation.

The Crisis That Trapped Two Dogs in the Snow

When the first vehicle lodged itself in the unexpectedly deep snowpack, the group’s two dogs stayed with their owners, relying entirely on them for warmth, reassurance, and protection. As the second vehicle attempted to help, it became stranded as well, leaving the dogs exposed to dropping temperatures, limited mobility, and the growing threat of overnight wind chill across the High Sierra.

For pet owners, moments like this heighten panic. Dogs cannot regulate their body temperature as efficiently in extreme cold, cannot seek proper shelter without assistance, and often become anxious or disoriented in unfamiliar, snow-covered terrain. In this case, both dogs remained close by their owners, but prolonged exposure could have turned dangerous. Had SAR not reached them when they did, the frigid conditions — already severe at elevation — could have taken a serious toll.

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that its SVU volunteers are trained to rescue not only people but the animals who accompany them on these backcountry adventures. Their safe retrieval of both dogs reinforced the critical role SAR plays in protecting the region’s four-legged residents as winter storms intensify.

Why Winter Adventures Are Riskier for Dogs

Verdi’s position in the High Sierra means it endures some of the harshest winter conditions anywhere in Western Nevada. With an annual snowfall nearly twice the national average and temperatures frequently diving into the low 20s between December and February, the landscape presents hidden hazards for even the most experienced outdoor dogs — and their equally adventurous owners.

The cold affects pets differently. Thick coats help but don’t eliminate risks like hypothermia, particularly when snow soaks through their fur or when cold air persists for long periods. Dogs also expend enormous energy maintaining body heat, making dehydration a surprisingly common issue in cold climates. And navigating deep snow can be disorienting, especially once darkness falls. Even well-trained dogs can lose their sense of direction in whiteout conditions.

The icy terrain also impacts their paws. Snow and ice collect between paw pads, causing burns, cracking, or painful clumping that makes movement difficult. Without protective booties or balm, a dog’s mobility can decline quickly, increasing the risk of injury or separation.

How to Keep Dogs Safe on Winter Off-Road Trips

This rescue serves as a stark warning for off-roaders who bring their dogs along for winter outings. Backcountry adventures demand preparation not just for people, but for the pets who rely on them. Warm blankets, insulated dog coats, and protective booties should be considered essential gear. Hydration remains critical even when the cold masks thirst cues, and high-calorie treats help dogs maintain the extra energy they burn staying warm.

Winter travel also demands strict route planning and constant monitoring of trail conditions. Pet owners should assess their dog’s cold-weather tolerance honestly, consult veterinarians about any health risks, and ensure microchips and tags are updated before venturing into remote terrain. If conditions deteriorate quickly or a vehicle becomes stuck, owners should remain in place and conserve warmth rather than attempting to hike out with their dog.

As this week’s Verdi rescue demonstrated, once vehicles become immobilized in deep snow, even a short wait for help can turn dangerous for a dog whose body temperature dips faster than expected. Staying with the vehicle, conserving heat, and waiting for SAR improves outcomes for both humans and their pets.

The Volunteers Who Saved Two Dogs From a Freezing Night

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team once again proved essential to protecting Northern Nevada’s outdoor community — both the two-legged and four-legged members. The sheriff’s office praised the dedication of the volunteers involved, noting they train in harsh conditions to ensure they’re prepared for winter emergencies like this one.

Their work is unpaid, physically demanding, and often requires navigating some of the region’s most extreme terrain. Yet their commitment ensures that adventurers — including dogs who can’t speak for themselves — are brought home safely. As temperatures drop and storms build, SAR anticipates more calls involving pets, hikers, hunters, and off-roaders caught off-guard by fast-changing weather.

Local residents are encouraged to support Washoe County SAR through donations or volunteer service, helping the team continue its lifesaving work as winter deepens.

A Close Call With a Clear Message for Dog Owners

The two dogs rescued from snow-blanketed Garson Road will never remember the ordeal that nearly turned fatal, but their family — and many others across Nevada — have taken note. Winter backcountry travel is unforgiving, especially when pets are along for the adventure. Preparation, caution, and respect for the High Sierra’s extreme conditions remain the only safeguards for keeping both people and their dogs safe.

As winter storms ramp up across Northern Nevada, the Verdi incident stands as a timely and powerful reminder: if you bring your dog into the mountains, you must be ready for the mountains to change in an instant.

And one more crucial note for local pet owners: microchipping your dog costs less than $50 and takes only minutes. Should disaster strike, it may be the single most important step you ever take to bring your best friend home.