Coastguard warning after dog falls from cliff

Authorities are warning people not to rescue animals that become stranded or injured around Cornwall's coastline themselves.

Several people tried to rescue a dog that had fallen off a cliff in Mevagissey on Saturday and was later found dead, the coastguard said.

Maggie Howell, from Falmouth Coastguard, said the dog's owners contacted the service immediately, but several people "swam round to try and help the dog".

She said dogs would often get themselves to safety, but people trying to rescue them could get into difficulty, adding: "Some, unfortunately, have even lost their lives."

She added: "Please don't go into the water after a dog.

"Call us immediately on 999 and we'll get down there with all the necessary safety equipment."

The dog's body was returned to their owner, the coastguard said.

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