Dog owners John and Fiona Preston got the best early Christmas present after their adorable cocker spaniel was saved by firefighters following a frightening cliff fall.
The couple were walking their two cocker spaniels, Olive and Daisy in Chopwell Woods on Saturday, December 3, when Olive suddenly disappeared. After following the sound of her whining, the pair were horrified to discover that the 20-month-old pup had fallen over the side of a cliff and was precariously balanced on a ledge.
It soon became clear it wasn’t safe to climb up to the ledge so they called Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for help.
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Firefighters from Swalwell and Hebburn came to the rescue, along with a specialist rope rescue team from South Shields, who spent 45 minutes descending the cliff face to save the terrified pooch.
Retired GP John, 63, said: "At one point we were so scared that the reality could be that we’d be going home without our Olive. With the constant whining, we didn’t know if she was seriously injured from the fall.
"When the rope rescue team arrived we felt a massive sense of relief. We just wanted to know that Olive was alright and safe.
“Daisy also knew that something was wrong and that her best buddy was in distress. We were so grateful to the firefighters and relieved in the knowledge that Olive was safe.
“She was cold and muddy but back in our arms. Her heart was pounding out of her little chest. Daisy was also pleased to see her partner in crime!”
Fiona added: “The firefighters were amazing. They kept John and myself in the loop and reassured us at every opportunity.
"We found out that most of them were dog lovers and could appreciate our concern.”
Firefighters have now issued a warning to other dog owners to make sure that they use well-lit paths and grassland areas when walking their pets.
Station Manager Terry Griffin, of TWFRS, said: “On the evening of Olive’s rescue it was already very dark and the ground underfoot was quite slippery so the firefighters had to be careful.
“Crews managed to pinpoint her location by using a thermal imaging camera, which then allowed a member of the rope rescue team to go over the ledge where the anxious animal was perched.
“Thankfully, Olive was found unscathed and she was happily reunited with her owner. It was a successful rescue operation by our crews.
"We would always urge dog owners to use well-lit paths and grassland areas when embarking on their walking route especially in the winter months when weather conditions can be unpredictable.”
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