Happy ending for Bridgnorth dog rescue operation after firefighters forced to stand down
A dog that had its rescue mission abandoned when firefighters discovered the hole it had become stuck down near Bridgnorth was a protected badger sett made it out alive, the RSPCA has confirmed.
Emergency services were forced to stand down following the call-out, which reported a small dog had become stuck down a rabbit hole in Oldbury and had not emerged for a period of time.
A specialist vet from the RSPCA was called in relation to the incident, which took place at about 12.45pm on December 30.
The fire service confirmed those at the scene were still waiting for the arrival of the vet at 4pm. The RSPCA since confirmed the dog was able to free itself and the vet was no longer needed.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We were called to assist the fire service concerning reports that a dog was stuck in a badger sett in Bridgnorth.
"We were on our way to the scene when we were told the good news the dog had managed to get itself free.
“We are delighted with the outcome and we are always more than happy to work with partner agencies and organisations to rescue an animal in need.”
Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) sent a team from Bridgnorth Fire Station.
At the time of the incident, the fire service reported: "At 12.46pm, SFRS fire control received a call reporting an incident classified as animal rescue in Bridgnorth.
"Reports of a small dog entering rabbit hole, discovered to be a badger sett. Under the 1992 Protection of Badgers Act, fire service personnel were unable to assist but advice was given to the dog owner."
