Source: RSPCA via The Dodo
It’s not unusual for both rescue services and everyday people to encounter animals like dogs or cats stuck in precarious situations needing help. The classic image of a cat stuck in a tree being rescued by brave firefighters is so iconic that fire departments even use it in their promotional materials.
A Different Kind of Bark
This time, the situation was a bit different, though it didn’t seem that way at first. A passerby was convinced he heard a dog in distress when he detected barking from a narrow passage between two buildings. Without much thought, he dashed toward the source of the sound to offer help.
A Shocking Discovery
However, what he found left him in shock. As he peered into the narrow gap, he saw an animal, but it wasn’t a dog. It was a deer. Confused and unsure of what to do, he called the fire and rescue service for assistance.
The Mystery Deepens
The firefighters arrived quickly, ready to tackle what they thought was a routine rescue. But as they took a closer look, they realized the situation was far from ordinary. One of the firefighters started laughing as he understood what was happening. The animal trapped between the buildings was indeed a deer, but not just any deer. It was a Muntjac, also known as a barking deer. This species of deer makes a barking sound when it’s in danger, which had led to the initial confusion.
Calling in the Experts
Although the firefighters solved the mystery of the barking deer, they knew they needed expert help to safely rescue the animal. They called the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) for assistance.
A Challenging Rescue
RSPCA officers quickly arrived on the scene, but they immediately recognized the difficulty of the task at hand. The deer was not only tightly wedged between the buildings but also upside down, which must have been terrifying for the poor creature.
Preparing for the Rescue
Animal rescue officer Karen Nix and her colleague, Inspector Laura Jones, came prepared with all the necessary equipment and the expertise needed for the job. Under their guidance, the firefighters used ropes and poles to carefully maneuver the deer out of the gap.
A Successful Operation
After some tense moments, the team managed to free the deer. Remarkably, despite its ordeal, the deer appeared to be unharmed.
Back to Nature
Once freed, the deer was quickly released back into its natural habitat. It was a relief to see the deer run off into the undergrowth, no longer barking, a sign that it was safe and on its way to a happier, stress-free life.
Conclusion
This rescue operation was a perfect example of how quick thinking and collaboration between various rescue services can lead to a happy ending, even in the most unexpected situations. The barking deer incident not only highlighted the importance of listening and observing carefully but also showcased the dedication and skill of the rescue teams involved. Their coordinated efforts ensured that the Muntjac deer could return to its natural environment, ready to continue its life free from danger.
