What should have been a simple walk unfortunately turned into a nightmare.
Cello was also walking with a canine friend.
Vanished without a trace
Suddenly, Cello vanished. His walking companion returned to Stephen all alone. Without wasting a second, Stephen and the other dog searched everywhere for Cello, but the worst was yet to come. The little dog had ventured into a badger sett, where he became trapped more than two feet underground.
Deeply worried, his owner immediately contacted Notts Lost Dogs, an animal search and rescue team. Using a specialist camera, the rescuers managed to locate Cello underground. Most importantly, they could hear him barking—the brave dog was still alive.
An anxious wait
Unfortunately, they had to wait before they could start digging. Badger setts are legally protected in the UK, and any intervention requires a licence from Natural England.
During this agonising wait, Stephen went through an incredibly difficult time. He barely slept or ate, fearing for his dog's life. Once the licence was granted, the rescuers from Notts Lost Dogs, along with firefighters, police officers, and representatives from Natural England, gathered to save the dog.
Cello is safe and sound
The team carefully began to clear part of the sett, mindful of the risks if badgers were inside. After digging down, the rescuers spotted two eyes peering through the soil. They widened the opening, and Cello was finally able to scramble out.
His dust-covered white face melted the hearts of the entire team. The dog was suffering from slight eye irritation, dehydration, and hunger, but otherwise, he was doing well.
Once back home, Cello slept for about 24 hours before recovering his usual energy. We are so relieved for him and his family. And despite his misadventure, he was already begging for another walk!
Translated from the FR Wamiz website using artificial intelligence
