Wicklow RNLI rescue stranded dog

Wicklow RNLI Inshore lifeboat crew came to the rescue of a stranded dog on a beach near the Black Castle as darkness fell on Wednesday (11 April) evening.

The dog out walking with its owner climbed down the sheer cliff onto an isolated beach and was unable to get back up. It was too dangerous for the owner to attempt climbing down to rescue the dog herself. With the dog now trapped the owner called to the Lifeboat station to ask for help.

The inshore lifeboat crew who were on exercise at the time were alerted and responded to the call. They carried out a beach landing in the breaking surf and recovered the animal from the small beach, which was cut off by the rising tide.

Winnie the dog was reunited with her grateful owner at the lifeboat station a short time later, and with the dog safely ashore the crew resumed their exercise.

The crew on the callout were (Helm) Mark Kavanagh, John Stapleton, Brid Seoighe and Mark Conway.

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.