Bunny chase lands puppy in deep water

VIDEO by SIMON DEACON

MANY dogs love chasing rabbits without any fear that their antics will land them in deep water.

010609 The Rescue - BMSD However, when 11-month-old Jack Russell puppy Vera was let off her lead and sped after a bunny during a walk, she ended up trapped at the bottom of a 25ft sewage tank.

Owner Martin Callister had to call on firefighters to help rescue his playful pooch from the Severn Trent-owned well, off James Brindley Way, Stretton.

Vera was stuck for two hours yesterday as crews prepared to abseil to her rescue.

Mr Callister, owner of Burton Paving Solutions, said the pungent pup's next adventure would be in the bath.

The Wyggeston Street resident said: "I'm so relieved to have her back. I was very worried when I heard her yelp echoing around the well.

"I'm amazed she didn't seriously injure herself. The water must've broken her fall and then she crawled on to a ledge.

"We were just on a walk and she sped off after a rabbit, through the hedge, then I heard her crying."

Mr Callister, who gave Vera to six-year-old daughter Georgea as a birthday present, hopes the mutt will learn from her mistakes.

The 45-year-old said: "She's always been one to punch above her weight and she's a very bold little dog.

"I'd like to think this will have scared her into being a bit more careful in future but she's so adventurous I don't think it will.

"Georgea will be delighted she's safe but will love the adventure her dog's been on."

Firefighters from Burton's Moor Street fire station were called out at 10am but had to enlist a specialist rope rescue team to save Vera.

Tactical advisor Brian Griffiths said: "From our point of view, the dog was safe on a ledge and we had time to call in the rope rescue team.

"We spoke to Severn Trent to make sure none of their machinery could go off with the dog down there and they've been brilliant."