NDAA funds Coastguard Jackets for dogs
The North Devon Animal Ambulance worked closely with the local Coastguard service to develop special canine cliff rescue bags
During the summer, we often get calls from the Barnstaple and Ilfracombe Coastguard to tell us that another dog has gone over a cliff. This often happens when dogs are chasing the rabbits on the cliff paths – though the rabbits can swerve at the last minute, the dogs aren't usually so quick and often fall over the cliff edge. Each year, Diana attends many calls and works with our fantastic Coastguards to rescue dogs that have run over North Devon's cliffs. Through experience, it quickly became apparent that a special device was needed so the coastguard could safely bring a dog to the top. Though the dogs often survive their sudden fall they are usually frightened and disorientated when rescued – and frightened dogs often bite! To ensure the safety of both the dog and rescuer, the NDAA funded and supplied the Barnstaple and Ilfracombe coastguards with special Dog Rescue Bags. As well as being comfortable for the dog, the bags keep the rescuers safe as they carry frightened animals back up the cliff.
