In August, we all read the story  about Missy, the German Shepherd-Rottweiler mix who was injured and abandoned by her owner while on a Colorado mountaintop during a hike with her owner. The 5-year-old dog was stranded for eight days before being rescued by a group of volunteers.  No small feat by any means.  (Missy’s owner never went back to look for her.)

The rescuers wanted very much to save Missy and give her a new home.  However,now that Missy had been rescued with loving care, owner Anthony Ortolani hinted that he’d like his dog back. After a month in a kennel while her fate was debated, Ortolani agreed to give Missy to one of her rescuers as part of a plea deal, one that helps him avoid animal cruelty charges.   (ABC News)

Anthony Ortolani, 31, faced charges of animal cruelty for leaving his German shepherd/Rottweiler mix, Missy, behind on the saddle between Mount Bierstadt and Mount Evans.  He will plead guilty to a less serious violation of a local ordinance.  Discussions leading up to the plea bargain included giving up the dog.  After the  month long stay in a local kennel, everyone is confident Missy will be thrilled to rejoin her rescuers.  Perhaps more trails to explore.

We are thrilled for you Missy.     Good girl!

Related articles

• Dog abandoned on Colorado mountain; owner faces animal cruelty charge (abclocal.go.com)
• Man Accused Of Leaving Dog On Mountain Wants Rescuer To Have Her (denver.cbslocal.com)
• LOOK: Heroic Strangers Rescue Abandoned Dog From 14,000 Ft. (huffingtonpost.com)
• Missy – The Abandoned Dog will Live with Rescuers (cafetodaymyblog.com)