Western Morning News (Saturday)
Lifeboat launched to save Betty the dog
RESCUERS have stepped up their warning to dog owners to keep pets on a lead near clifftops after the St Ives Inshore lifeboat had to be launched to save an injured dog that had fallen onto rocks.
RNLI volunteers were called out after reports from Falmouth Coastguard of an injured dog near Porthminster Point.
Helm Jonathan Harvey, along with volunteer crew Jack Hill and Neil Brooks launched the inshore lifeboat. St Ives Cliff Rescue were also on the scene, and they waved the crew in.
Crew member Jack Hill got out of the lifeboat to the rocks to recover the frightened and injured pet using an ambulance pouch to keep the animal still and secure. An RNLI spokesman said: “Neil Brooks joined Jack Hill on the rocks and together they managed to safely secure terrier Betty the dog with the pouch and get her onto the lifeboat. The crew then quickly returned to the station where Betty’s owners were waiting anxiously to receive her. Betty’s owners then quickly made their way to the local vets to receive the appropriate treatment for her injuries.”
Jonathan Harvey said: “It’s really important to keep both yourself and dog safe when you’re walking along coastal paths, rocks and cliffs. There are safety tips on the RNLI website, but some simple points to remember are to always keep your dog on a lead if you’re close to cliff edges or fast flowing rivers.
“If your dog goes into the water or gets stuck, don’t go after them, move to a place your dog can get to safely and call them – most dogs self rescue. But if you’re worried, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”