Dog dies in whirlpool drain at Topaz Lake

A dog's life was tragically taken in Topaz Lake after being pulled into a whirlpool drain on Saturday while attempting to retrieve a stick.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and the loss of the dog," said Melissa Blosser, Public Information Office for Douglas County. "We immediately reached out to the owner of the animal to find out what happened and express condolences."

The drain is located where water is released from the man-made reservoir into the Walker River. The owner of Kumi, the chocolate Labrador who died, said more warning in the area could have prevented her dog's death. There is some signage in the area and more may be added.

"We have never had an incident related to the drain in the past," said Blosser. "Dogs are not allowed on the property without a leash for their safety and the safety of others. We will continue to monitor the drain and work with Walker River Irrigation District.”

Douglas County manages the parks portion of Topaz Lake. The lake and water system is managed by Walker River Irrigation District.