Rafting firm shelters 45 dogs after floods

Desert River Guides in Farmington pulled more than 45 dogs from trapped homes and their own warehouse during recent flooding in the Four Corners region. The business acted as an emergency shelter for pets while crews worked to keep water out of their building.

Ryan Dudgeon, co-owner of Desert River Guides, told KOB 4 that the heavy rainfall was rare for the area. He described the weather as outstanding given the local climate. Crews initially moved through neighborhoods with a raft, prepared to assist residents if the water rose.

Later that afternoon, calls came in about animals stuck inside houses. Dudgeon said his team hiked across the flooded terrain to reach the pets. He noted that the ground contained quicksand, making the rescue mission treacherous. The crew successfully brought the animals back to their owners.

When the water receded, the company opened its warehouse to house displaced animals. At its peak, the space held over 45 dogs, plus a small number of chickens, rabbits, and cats. The city of Farmington assisted by building a berm and placing sandbags around the structure. Dudgeon said these barriers kept the animals dry until crews could evacuate them a second time.

The flooding has also altered how the company plans future excursions. After assessing new river patterns, Desert River Guides intends to launch four-day trips on the San Juan River starting next summer. These routes will run from Shiprock to the Four Corners.