More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A dog that became stuck after falling into the sea and a man who tried to save him were rescued by firefighters.
Two-year-old Raki and his owners had been enjoying a long walk in Reculver Lane, Herne Bay, when the Russian Black Terrier fell down a steep and slippery coastal wall.
The dog became completely stuck in the mud and water below.
A plucky passerby who had climbed down over the wall in an attempt to save Raki also had to be rescued by firefighters.
Dramatic footage captured yesterday shows crews wearing dry suits and using rescue lines to secure the dog and lift him back to safety.
Raki was lucky to escape the ordeal with no injuries and is now back in the care of his owner, Meredith, who said: "The one thing I would take away from this is to urge other dog owners to always keep your dogs on a lead.
"You never know what trouble your dog may find themselves in, because there aren't always visible warning signs near steep edges or other hazardous areas.
"It was such a scary thing to go through, especially since the tide was starting to come in, and it was becoming more dangerous by the minute.
"We're so glad the fire service were there - they did an absolutely amazing job rescuing him, and I'm pleased to say that Raki is now back to his usual self."
Following the incident, crews have issued safety advice for this bank holiday and beyond.
They have urged people to take any warning or water safety signs seriously, look out for trip and slip hazards, and to keep in mind that wet riverbanks, steep edges and jagged rocks can make it hard for a dog to get out of water, and it can also be a slip risk for owners.
You should raise the alarm by calling 999 if you see someone in trouble and avoid throwing sticks or balls near water for dogs.
If you spot someone in trouble in the sea, call 999 for the Coastguard. If it's by inland water, such as a river or a lake, call 999 for the fire service.
