Two people were rescued from an avalanche in Switzerland after their dogs barked frantically to help them, officials said.
The pair became trapped around 3 p.m. Saturday while on a hiking trail in the Avers Valley near the Italian border, Rega air ambulance service said.
Their dogs, which were not buried by the snow masses, drew attention by barking loudly, officials said on Sunday.
“The dogs caught the attention of a group of snowshoes that were a long way down the same valley but hadn’t seen the avalanche.”
Emergency services were called and were able to reach the couple 15 to 20 minutes later.
One of the walkers was completely buried, while the other’s hands were exposed, officials said.
Crews dug them out and took them to hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries and mild hypothermia.
Details about the couple, including their identities, were not immediately reported.
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