COLORADO SPRINGS — A dog named Lila is safely back home after a bizarre adventure that left her stranded on the roof of the Citadel Mall.
According to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR), mall security was stunned to spot a dog atop the building and called in Animal Law Enforcement (ALE) for help. The sight was so strange that theories started flying—one of which jokingly imagined Lila as a holiday helper who had gotten her schedule mixed up.
“Our officers are used to seeing dogs in some interesting situations, but normally, those situations involve gravity,” HSPPR joked in a social media post. “Yet there she was, Lila the Summer Reindeer, looking around for a chimney and sweating in the Colorado sun.”
The working theory? Lila believed she was one of Santa’s top reindeer, sent on a mission a few months too early to prep for the holiday season. While charming, the reality was simple—she was trapped and needed help.
An ALE officer, equipped with a leash and some water, climbed up to where Lila was stuck. Though wary at first, the pup was eventually comforted with a drink and some gentle reassurance. After gaining her trust, the officer placed Lila on a stretcher while others helped guide her safely back to the ground.
Once down, rescuers discovered Lila’s collar—leading to even better news. A quick check showed she’d been missing for six days. Her owner had been actively searching, filing a lost pet report and posting on multiple platforms.
“One phone call later, and the Christmas-in-August saga came to a very jolly end, complete with a joyful reunion between Lila and her human,” HSPPR shared. “There were hugs, happy tears, and just the faintest jingling of imaginary sleigh bells in the background.”
HSPPR offered the owner a few helpful tips to avoid any more rooftop adventures—keep collars and ID tags current, consider microchipping, and always report lost pets quickly.
“No more reindeer games, Lila,” the shelter teased. “At least until December.”
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Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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