Border Collie Stuck in a Tree

Firefighters working at the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have had many unusual calls over the years, but last month they had another first. Kez Jenkins from Burntwood rang because her Border Collie was stuck in a tree.

She was out walking her dogs in the countryside when she realised that Belle, an eight year old Border Collie was no longer with her. She called and searched to no avail – it seemed that Belle had just vanished.

Jenkins went back home to enlist some friends to help her search. When she came back to the area she heard Belle bark – above her head! Belle was stranded up a horse chestnut tree about nine metres (30 feet) up in the air.

It’s highly likely that Belle had been chasing a squirrel and scampered up the tree after it. The tree was quite steep but wide enough for her to climb. It had a low-slung branch hanging over the field they had been romping through.

The fire department thought the call was a hoax but curiosity got the better of them and they went to investigate. Sure enough, there was Belle, just as Jenkins had described. She was stuck on a branch that was only about eight inches wide with her hind legs dangling on each side for balance. By that time she had been stranded in the tree almost six hours.

Firefighters hoisted up a canvas bag and were soon able to bring Belle down to safety. Belle ran around in circles to celebrate, happy to be back on solid ground again!

Believe it or not, certain breeds of dogs were actually bred to climb trees. Last year Mirror News ran a story about a Jack Russell Terrier from Wolverhampton who enjoyed climbing trees on her daily walks. Jack Russell Terriers are closely related to Treeing and Mountain Feists, terrier breeds that were developed for hunting squirrels. Extremely quick and agile, they also enjoy hunting rabbits and birds.

If your dog has an affinity for chasing squirrels it’s time to take some preventive measures before you find them up the nearest tree. Check out our Busy Buddy Squirrel Dude dog toys. These dog toys come in two sizes and are made of soft rubber. Bounce the Busy Buddy Squirrel Dude and your dog will have a blast chasing it around. This toy can also be stuffed with treats to prolong your pet’s interest.

Posted 3rd November 2010

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