In the quiet neighborhood of Arroyo Heights, two "lions"  found themselves in a very un-lion-like predicament on Thursday afternoon. Mia and Mattilda are Leonbergers, a massive German breed specifically bred to resemble the lions on the crest of the town of Leonberg, Germany. Known for their gentle temperaments and thick, double coats, these "gentle giants" usually spend their days serving as fire department therapy dogs, providing comfort to those in need.

On a recent Thursday afternoon, however, the roles were reversed. The two dogs slipped past their owner, Linda Hiemer—perhaps in a moment of excitement over a squirrel—and ended up trapped on a ledge 30 feet down a steep cliff. For two hours, eight-year-old Mia and three-year-old Mattilda waited on that precarious perch.

The Seattle Fire Department responded in force, sending eight units to save their own. Because Leonbergers are among the largest dogs in the world—with females weighing up to 140 pounds—the rescue required significant technical skill. Firefighters utilized a rope rescue technique, descending the cliffside to reach the stranded pair.

The dogs were prepared for the challenge; they were already wearing specialized harnesses equipped with handles. Mia, wearing her signature red harness, was the first to be brought back up to safety. She was soon followed by Mattilda, who was identified by her purple harness. Firefighters used the harnesses and ropes to carefully guide the heavy dogs back up the hill.

The most touching moment of the afternoon occurred once the dogs were back on solid ground. Rather than being shaken by their ordeal, Mia and Mattilda immediately returned to their training. They began walking around to greet every firefighter on the scene, offering "therapy" and affection to the very people who had just pulled them to safety. In a day defined by a high-stakes rescue, the two gentle giants made sure it ended with a wagging tail and a bit of love for everyone involved.