Zen, a five-year-old border collie, plays a crucial role in avalanche rescues in the Italian Dolomites, where rescue dogs are essential for locating buried victims.

Avalanches have increased 50% in the past 25 years, partly due to climate change, which has made snow heavier and harder to survive in. Zen’s team recently helped find a skier buried in deep snow, though most avalanche victims don’t survive if buried too long. Dogs are often the first responders, but survival chances are best with self-rescue or companion help.

Climate change is worsening snow conditions, making avalanche rescues even more critical. The Dolomites are also preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, highlighting the region’s increasing focus on avalanche safety and rescue operations.

theglobeandmail.com