Labrador Tokyo Survives Cannabis Incident on Ben Nevis Summit

A Heart-Stopping Rescue on Britain’s Tallest Peak

Dog rescued from Ben Nevis suspected – Christina Bluhme, a professional dog trainer residing in Esher, Surrey, found herself in a harrowing situation while hiking with her beloved black Labrador, Tokyo. The pair had embarked on a journey to Scotland’s most iconic mountain, Ben Nevis, when disaster struck midway through their ascent. Tokyo suddenly collapsed onto the rocky trail, displaying alarming symptoms that left Bluhme terrified for her companion’s life.

The incident occurred on the slopes of the United Kingdom’s highest summit, which rises to an impressive 4,413 feet or 1,345 meters above sea level. Tokyo’s distress was immediate and severe. The normally energetic working dog lost the use of her hind legs and began drifting in and out of consciousness, creating a scene that Bluhme would never forget.

“I genuinely thought I was going to lose her,” Bluhme recalled, describing the moment when Tokyo’s condition deteriorated rapidly. The dog trainer explained that her pet had begun to lose motor function in her legs while simultaneously experiencing episodes of unconsciousness.

Thankfully, members of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team happened to be nearby and responded swiftly to the emergency. Recognizing the severity of Tokyo’s condition, the rescuers carefully stretchered the 25-kilogram Labrador down the mountain’s steep terrain. The descent proved challenging, particularly given that Bluhme alone could not have managed to carry her exhausted dog the entire distance.

“Without the incredible Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team, there is simply no way I could have got her safely off the mountain,” Bluhme expressed her gratitude. “Carrying a 25kg Labrador down Ben Nevis was impossible on my own. Their kindness, professionalism and calm support meant everything during one of the most frightening days I’ve ever experienced.”

Throughout the arduous journey downward, Tokyo remained largely unconscious, her condition requiring constant monitoring and care from both her owner and the rescue volunteers. The team transported the dog to Crown Vets in Fort William, where veterinary professionals provided immediate treatment and assessment.

Full Recovery and Important Warning for Pet Owners

After thorough examination, veterinarians determined that Tokyo had likely ingested cannabis that had been discarded by previous visitors along the hiking trail. This unexpected encounter with the psychoactive substance had caused her dramatic symptoms, including paralysis of her legs and altered consciousness levels.

The prognosis proved excellent, and Tokyo made a complete recovery within twenty-four hours of the incident. Bluhme described feeling “incredibly lucky” that her faithful companion had survived what could have been a fatal situation. She took this opportunity to issue an important caution to other dog owners who frequent outdoor spaces.

“A little reminder to fellow dog owners – please be aware that discarded drugs and other toxic substances can sometimes be found even in the most beautiful outdoor places,” she advised. “It was something I never imagined we would encounter.”

The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team expressed their satisfaction at Tokyo’s full recovery and commended the local veterinary staff in Fort William for their excellent care. A spokesperson for the rescue organization noted that Tokyo, typically a very fit and active working dog, had become critically unwell after consuming the unknown substance.

“It’s now suspected that Tokyo, a usually very fit and active working dog, had ingested something that made her critically unwell,” the spokesperson explained. “Many thanks to Crown vets for their support, and to Tokyo’s owner for the update and photos.”

Bluhme concluded by thanking everyone involved in Tokyo’s rescue, praising the rescue crew and veterinary team for their “compassion and dedication.” She added a heartfelt message: “You were there when we needed you most.”

This incident serves as a timely reminder that even in pristine natural environments, hazards can lurk unexpectedly. Ben Nevis, one of Scotland’s most popular hiking destinations, has seen multiple rescues during periods of strong winds and avalanches, making it a location where preparedness is essential for all visitors.