RSPCA join divers in rescuing fox stuck under marina in North Shields
A member of the public spotted the stricken fox stuck on a wooden ledge under Royal Quays Marina, Albert Edward Dock, and reported the matter to the RSPCA.
Animal rescuer, Inspector Trevor Walker was sent to the scene and could see the frightened fox trapped under the platform on a concrete ledge on Tuesday March 30.
Trevor decided the only way to safely access the fox was from the water and told a concerned member of the public he would need a boat.
It turns out the man he was talking to was a member of a group called Ghost Divers - a registered charity which specialises in the removal of lost (ghost) fishing gear and other marine debris.
The group were working in the marina clearing out discarded angling items which pose a serious danger to wildlife and had a boat nearby.
So three of the group members invited Trevor onto the boat and they were able to get close to the underside of the marina and using a net were able to safely grab the fox which was then taken to a nearby vet for emergency treatment.
Trevor said: “The RSPCA has water rescue boats but it would have taken some time to get one to this area so I am so grateful to the Ghost Diving UK North who helped me get to the fox immediately - it was a real team effort.
“Sadly hours after the rescue the fox was found to be losing all vital signs of life and the vet decided to put him to sleep to end his suffering.
“It was a sad outcome but he was probably stuck on the ledge for quite some time without anyone realising and while we were really hoping he would pull through there is some comfort in the fact at least he didn’t have to suffer a lingering death alone.
“I guess he had gone down there to get to pigeons which roost underneath the marina and then got stuck - and unfortunately was unable to make his own way to safety.”
Duncan Simpson, a spokesperson for Ghost Diving UK, said: “We are committed to removing lost fishing gear and underwater debris and rescuing marine animals in need.
“Of course, every life counts so the team didn’t think twice when they learned a fox was in trouble and we are proud to be able to apply our specialism in this situation.”
If you find an animal that’s injured, sick, or in immediate danger then please call the RSPCA for advice on our cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999. More information on fox cubs can be found on the RSPCA website.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181