Yachtsman rescues dog from drowning

A small fluffy dog owes its life to a yachtsman who spotted it struggling for survival in the sea, about 200 metres off Mġarr Ix-Xini, on Thursday.

Realising the desperate plight of the poor creature, Josef Muscat of Balzan launched his inflatable dinghy to reach the dog which, he said, seemed on the verge of giving up in the chilly sea.

Mr Muscat and his friends grabbed the dog, wrapped him in a towel and rushed him ashore. But they realised he needed immediate assistance if he was to be saved.

Gozo SPCA centre manager Betty Berry came over immediately when contacted. She said the dog was in deep shock and suffering from hypothermia after spending a long time in the cold sea.

In fact, the little animal was barely conscious and unable to sit or stand. Warmth was provided by blankets and a hair dryer to dry his thick, sopping wet coat.

Electrolytes were also administered by syringe and within an hour the condition of little Phelps, as he is now known, improved and he lifted his head in an effort to sit up.

A vet later visited the dog, which is being cared for at Ms Berry's home, and administered further treatment.

Anyone who recognises Phelps or wishes to give it a home is asked to contact Gozo SPCA on 9980 7067 or at info@spca-gozo.org.