Forest Rangers respond to aid of dog on Hunter trail
Published on:
January 7, 2026
Forest Ranger Seamus Peterson assisted a hiker and their dog on New Year’s Day in Elka Park. DEC photo.
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HUNTER―On the afternoon of January 1, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) dispatchers received a call about an injured dog on the Pecoy Notch trail on Twin Mountain in Elka Park.
Forest Ranger Seamus Peterson responded and hiked in from the Roaring Kill trailhead to reach a hiker and their 40-pound dog.
Peterson provided foot warmers to the hiker, who was wearing spring/summer hiking boots.
According to DEC, the dog had cold front paws but otherwise was in good health.
Ranger Katherine Fox arrived and kept the excited dog happy with treats. On the hike out, the rangers educated the 31-year-old hiker from Pawling about proper winter clothing and footwear.
Rangers suggest hiking with the “10 Hiking Essentials," including proper footwear and moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics that keep skin dry and help regulate body temperature.
Preparedness tips for hikers can be found on DEC’s website at https://dec.ny.gov/things-to-do/hiking/hike-smart-ny.
