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11 Sept 2025
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11 Sept 2025
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Raymond Cattigan, from Achill Coast Guard and Kevin Carey with Ship, the Sheepdog
In the early hours of Thursday morning, members of Achill Coast Guard executed a daring cliff face rescue of a sheepdog who had fallen 90 meters in Belmullet.
Earlier that day, a sheep ran towards the cliff but turned away before going over the edge.
Unfortunately, Ship, a sheepdog, didn’t stop and fell 90 meters down the steep cliff and became trapped at the base.
The Coast Guard is full of praise for the farmers and a passer-by who contacted them.
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“The owner made the right decision in contacting the Coast Guard for assistance.”
The Ballyglass Coast Guard Search and Drone Unit were first on the scene and investigated the scene.
They called in the Achill Coast Guard, who are specially trained in cliff rescue.
Using these skills, the Achill Coast Guard scaled down the cliff face by rope in darkness to rescue Ship the Sheepdog.
“Our volunteer Search and Rescue Cliff Team set up a technical rope climb. Our barrow boy, supported by the team, reached the dog and safely secured it. From there, the haul team brought them both safely back to the top.”
The operation concluded at approximately 01:26am.
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“ A great outcome for this four-legged adventurer and an important reminder: please never put yourself at risk attempting a rescue. Call the Coast Guard, it’s what we’re trained for!”
If you see anyone in difficulty on the sea, shore, or cliffs, dial 112/999 or call on VHF Ch 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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