We're still a couple of months out from the start of ski season, but one A-Basin employee is already hard at work, getting ready for the winter. 

Tikka, an adorable Golden Retriever puppy, is the newest avalanche rescue dog in training, and has already won over the hearts of everyone at the mountain. Tikka's ski patrol handler Erich, has been getting her used to the grounds she'll soon be working on at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, and she seems to be adjusting quickly. About a month ago, Tikka even got to prance in her very first snow patch. Similar to police dogs, "avi dogs," as they're commonly known, go home every night with their ski patrol trainer, in order to create the strongest bond and sense of trust possible. In the case of an avalanche, these dogs are sent out the search the area and locate anyone who is stuck – which they can do much faster than any human could.

If you find yourself at A-Basin this winter, stop and say hello to Tikka! You can also follow along with her adventures on Instagram @tikkatotherescue.

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