A retired tracking dog has successfully located a missing tortoise in undergrowth in Arreton after a chance encounter led to an unexpected search mission.
Volunteer tracker Jane was unloading her car when she noticed 2 women searching nearby. Upon asking if they had lost a pet, she learned they were looking for a tortoise named Fennel, last seen earlier that day along the road.
Jane, part of the TrackAdog team, offered assistance with her retired but highly trained dog, Barney.
While Fennel’s owner returned home to collect a scent item, another local resident appeared, reporting she had lost a tortoise named Mavis – with 1 of her 2 pets already recovered by workmen.
Using a scent from the tortoise enclosure, Barney led a focused search through bushes and hedgerows, eventually indicating Mavis’ location hidden in undergrowth. She was safely recovered thanks to the 11-year-old dog’s precision and determination.
Efforts to help find Fennel are continuing, with Jane and the team planning to assist the owner again the following day.
A big well done to Barney.
Indomitable Jane strikes again! Well done!!!