Man carries dying dog up favourite mountain for emotional farewell walk

Carlos Fresco transported his beloved pooch up Pen-y-Fan in Wales for a final trek before his death

Joanna Whitehead
Thursday 08 July 2021 09:36 EDT
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Carlos and Monty at the top of Pen-y-Fan in Wales
Carlos and Monty at the top of Pen-y-Fan in Wales (Carlos Fresco / SWNS)

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A man who transported his dying dog up his favourite mountain for a final walk has paid an emotional tribute to his loyal companion.

Carlos Fresco and his 10-year-old labradoodle Monty had long enjoyed hikes up hills and mountains and were regular visitors to the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales.

Man and dog had conquered the three peaks together, so Fresco decided that Pen-y-Fan was the natural spot for a final trek with his poorly pooch.

The pair travelled to the region, staying with friends in Brecon, for their conclusive adventure.

Using a wheelbarrow to transport his beloved hound to the summit, Fresco made his way to the top of the stunning beauty spot, attracting the attention of many walkers on their way who expressed their sadness at Monty’s fragile state.

Fresco said: “Although he was weak, he enjoyed all the fuss and attention received by so many well wishers.

“People on the hills were so kind and equally so sad at his deteriorating condition.

Monty was showered with affection from other walkers on his final trek
Monty was showered with affection from other walkers on his final trek (Carlos Fresco / SWNS)

“In fact total strangers asked if they could share in pushing Monty on his last journey - many total strangers shed a tear as we all love dearly our little four-legged friends.”

He added: “I would like very much to thank them all for their support, encouragement and genuine concern over Monty.”

Sadly, Monty passed away on 21 June after an 18-month battle with leukaemia, during which time his health declined “very rapidly”, despite responding well to chemotherapy.

“That little guy touched so many lives,” said Fresco.

“Made everyone he came into contact with smile and just take a moment to reflect how sometimes life’s not that bad.

“Our little companions are never judgemental, are always there waiting for you and offer comfort when things haven’t gone well.

“He was truly a special boy. God bless and goodnight little fella.”

Monty in the wheelbarrow at the summit of Pen-y-Fan
Monty in the wheelbarrow at the summit of Pen-y-Fan (Carlos Fresco / SWNS)

The news comes after a ‘defusing’ dog named Digby came to the aid of a woman who was threatening to jump off a bridge on the M5 in June.

The heroic pooch, who is used by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, and has previously been used to help in talking therapy sessions for emergency workers exposed to trauma, played a pivotal role in supporting the emergency crew to bring the woman back to safety.

“When Digby arrived, the young woman immediately swung her head round to look and smiled,” the spokesperson added.

“This got a conversation started about Digby and his role at the fire service.

“She was asked if she would like to come and meet Digby if she came back over the railings, which we are pleased to say she did.”

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said it wished the woman all the best in her recovery.

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