Dog Saved From Dump Climbs Mt. Everest

Rupee thought to be first to achieve feat
By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 13, 2013 8:40 AM CST
Dog Saved From Dump Climbs Mt. Everest
In this Tuesday, May 16, 2013 photo, tents are pitched as climbers rest on Mount Everest.   (AP Photo/ Pasang Geljen Sherpa)

Mount Everest has its first known canine climber: a dog who was rescued from near death at an Indian dump. Rupee was adopted by South African golfer Joanne Lefson, who had taken her previous dog, Oscar, around the world (and has written an upcoming book about it). Her latest adventure was a trip to Everest's base camp at 17,568 feet, AFP reports; she called the 13-day journey, begun Oct. 14, "Expedition Mutt Everest 2013." A Mumbai filmmaker recorded the trip, reports the Daily Mail, which has plenty of pictures.

Rupee's vet said Lefson needn't worry about the dog getting altitude sickness, since he was born in the Himalayas. "I am so proud of Rupee. I thought I might have to carry him on some days, but instead, he took the lead and pulled me along," Lefson says after the journey over bridges and around landslides. He's "a fine example of what can be achieved when a homeless dog is given a second chance." (More Mount Everest stories.)

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