Dog Hero Story: Maine dogs aide in rescue of owner

A 72-year-old woman from Maine was rescued after spending four nights lost in the woods, where she and her 82-year-old husband had wandered while walking their dogs. Tragically, her husband’s body was recovered during the search.

Pamela Helmstadter was found on Thursday in Washington County after going missing since Sunday. The couple lost their way after straying off the trail, leading to John Helmstadter’s fall, which left him unable to move. Without cell phones, Pamela attempted to seek help but soon became disoriented.

“She was physically more capable, so they decided she would go for help while he stayed put,” explained Sgt. Josh Beal of the Maine Warden Service.

The couple might not have been located if it weren’t for a vigilant neighbor who reported a package left on their porch. The neighbor noticed the package remained there the next day and found it odd when one of the dogs returned home without any sign of the couple. This prompted a search that began that evening.

Pamela Helmstadter had lost hope of rescue until she heard search planes overhead five times on Thursday. When she was found around 2:30 p.m., she was severely hypothermic, with a body temperature of just 90.7 degrees.

John Helmstadter’s body was discovered about 200 yards from where Pamela was located. Sgt. Beal noted that their dog played a crucial role in Pamela’s survival. When rescuers found her, the dog was protective, lying on her chest to help keep her warm.

Pamela is currently recovering in the hospital after her ordeal.