Note: We are republishing this story which originally made the news in June 2018.

In June 2018, Amelia Milling, a 21-year-old deaf college student, set out on a solo hiking trip through the remote wilderness of Alaska. What began as a personal challenge to explore nature and assert her independence took a terrifying turn when she slipped on snow and fell over 300 feet down a mountain slope. Despite the severity of the fall, she survived with only minor injuries.

Disoriented and stranded, Amelia faced the vast, unforgiving Alaskan backcountry alone. With no way to find her trail or signal for immediate help, her situation became increasingly dangerous. Then, in a remarkable twist, a white husky with piercing blue eyes appeared. At first, Amelia thought the dog was a stray, but he wore a vest identifying him as a service dog. His name was Nanook.

Nanook approached calmly and began to guide Amelia. Trusting him, she followed, and the husky led her back to the main trail. His assistance proved vital, but even more so when Amelia attempted to cross a frigid, fast-moving river and was swept away by the current. Once again, Nanook leapt into action, diving into the water and pulling her to shore.

Amelia later recalled how she struggled to breathe and how her body was going numb in the icy water. Unable to hold onto a branch or stay afloat with her pack, she credits Nanook for saving her life a second time. That night, Nanook even stayed outside her tent, keeping watch as she awaited rescue.

Using a satellite phone, Amelia called for help, and Alaska state troopers rescued both her and Nanook the next day. She called him her “guardian angel” and said she would never forget him.

Nanook was later reunited with his owner, who shared that the heroic dog had saved several other hikers before—and likely more still unknown.