
Fire chiefs have issued a warning to pet owners after a dog had to be rescued from the water at Appleby Castle.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service was called out on Wednesday, November 16, and while on their way, were told that the owner had entered the fast-flowing river to rescue the dog.
Another member of the public had helped the owner to safety as the fast flowing water risked sweeping them off their feet.
The animal was rescued and taken to vets for further care and the two people managed to get themselves back to safety.
Scott Cameron, station manager at Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We would like to remind dog owners not to be tempted to enter freezing bodies of water to try and rescue their pets, especially as the weather is only going to get colder heading into December.
“While the way we feel about our pets can motivate some people to take action themselves, in almost every case the dog manages to extricate itself unharmed, but unfortunately not every owner manages to avoid serious injury or death.
“If your animal does get into difficultly call 999 and ask for the fire service, keep your eye on the animal to pass on the information to crews when they arrive.
“Animals are resilient and will often find a way out of the river by themselves.”