K-9 Arch Helps Rescue Missing Kids After They Wander From Colorado Campsite
Sep 30, 2026, 8:11 AM | Updated: 8:13 am
A Colorado search dog named Archie — better known as Arch — helped lead rescuers to three children who went missing after wandering away from their family’s campsite. Because even a quiet morning in the mountains can turn into a full-blown search operation before lunch.
Family members noticed the children were missing around 9 a.m., according to Denver 7. They searched the area for about two hours before calling law enforcement for help.
Search and rescue crews responded with drones, a helicopter and teams on foot to comb through the wilderness. Then K-9 Archie got to work.
Arch picked up a scent at the campsite and led searchers away from the area, helping guide the rescue effort deeper into the terrain. Teams eventually spotted the children from higher ground about 1.5 miles from the campsite.
The children — two 6-year-olds and a 9-year-old — were found safe and were not injured.
It’s the kind of ending everyone hopes for in a missing children case: scared family, massive search, one very focused dog, and kids found alive and well.
Arch, a police search and rescue dog, is being credited with helping bring the children home safely. And honestly, give the dog the steak, the medal, the news conference and whatever else he wants. He earned it.
