(RNLI Press Office) – On the morning of Wednesday 2 April Chiswick RNLI lifeboat crew were called to investigate reports of a dog in distress in Barn Elms Reach. When the lifeboat arrived two crew were put ashore to assess the situation. The dog appeared very still but then they saw her tail move. The owner, who was with her, had already called a vet and a pet ambulance was on its way. They had advised keeping the dog still until they arrived. 

After veterinary surgeon Rachel Kirkby and veterinary nurse Trish Everett had made an initial assessment Hashi was carefully transferred into the lifeboat’s basket stretcher for transfer, as access at the scene was difficult. They constantly monitored her during the trip back to Chiswick Pier where she was transferred to the pet ambulance and taken away for further assessment.

The vets thought the prognosis was good but they suspected there might be some fractures. Later examination revealed there were no broken bones, but it was still felt necessary for Hashi to be referred to a specialist clinic for further tests.

RNLI Lifeboat Helmsman, Glen Munroe, said: ‘Being able to reach the injured dog from the water made recovery much easier, and all our crew are pleased that they helped ensure a good outcome for Hashi.’ 

Although the RNLI’s purpose is saving lives, crews often go to the aid of animals in distress near the water as frequently owners try to rescue their pets, often putting themselves in jeopardy.

Chiswick RNLI Lifeboat is the second busiest in the UK and Republic of Ireland; since starting service in 2002, the crew have attended more than 2,400 incidents and rescued more than 1,200 people.