West Kirby RNLI rescue Comet the Cocker Spaniel from mud flats
West Kirby RNLI rescued a black Cocker Spaniel dog that had become separated from its’ owner after chasing birds to the waters edge on West Kirby beach.
Following a distressed phonecall from the owner of the dog, HM Coastguard contacted West Kirby RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager, Richard Diamond, directly for advice at 3:30pm regarding an animal rescue. Whilst walking on Cubbins Green the young dog, Comet, had become excited by the sea birds and darted off from the owner into the distance across the shore.
The owner had contacted HM Coastguard, who had advised her to proceed with caution and to avoid any muddy areas of the beach due to the risk of becoming stuck. The owner acted in accordance with the advice and did not enter the muddy area of the beach, and then proceeded to West Kirby RNLI’s station for further support.
The volunteer crew were paged at 3:35pm and the whole team were deployed to search the beach using West Kirby RNLI’s Hagglund BV tractor and on foot. The BV is designed to be easily manoeuvrable on mud flats without risk of sinking, and the ideal vehicle for such a rescue.
The volunteer crew tracked out to the moorings across the soft mud having spotted the Cocker Spaniel at a distance from the slipway. The dog was exhausted, but unharmed, and was transferred onto the boat prior to the journey back across the beach. Comet was returned to its’ very relieved owner, who had acted appropriately by immediately contacting HM Coastguard for guidance. The crew received a round of applause from members of the public who had gathered, whilst adhering to socially distance rules, to witness the safe return of the animal.
Speaking following the call out, Richard Diamond, West Kirby RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘The owner should be praised for contacting HM Coastguard and asking for guidance. Never enter into soft muddy areas as it is very easy to become bogged down and at risk yourself if there is an incoming tide, in particular. Please always contact HM Coastguard, who will deploy the most appropriate team to deal with any emergency.’
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Media Contacts:
Vicky Gaskin, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer (07786) 237824 [email protected]
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