A vulnerable man in his 80s who became trapped in thick brambles after wandering off in hot weather on the Isle of Wight was tracked for almost a mile by Police Dog Bella, leading officers straight to him.
Police were called to the Rookley area following concerns for the welfare of the man, who had been spotted appearing confused and shouting for help as temperatures reached the high 20s.
A member of the public stopped to speak with him, but the man was unable to communicate coherently and soon wandered away.
PD Bella and her handler, PC Gemma Johnson, were then called in to help with the search.
Bella quickly picked up a scent and began tracking, leading officers along a bridlepath, through woodland and across 3 farmers’ fields.
After following the trail for almost a mile, Bella turned into a field next to Long Lane.
The missing man was discovered trapped in thick brambles in a far corner of the field.
He had fallen and become wedged in the undergrowth, leaving him unable to free himself or make his way to safety.
By the time officers found him, he was showing signs of dehydration.
The man was safely rescued and taken to hospital as a precaution.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has highlighted the rescue to mark International Dog Day this week (Wednesday), praising the partnership between Bella and PC Johnson.
Police have said:
“A fantastic effort from PD Bella and her handler. This was a true team effort, with Bella’s determination, skill and nose for the job matched by her handler’s ability to read and understand her behaviour throughout the track.
“The trust and partnership between them played a crucial role in locating the vulnerable man and bringing him to safety.”
