A husky found abandoned down a Zurrieq cliff face with a 30-foot rope tied around its neck was rescued in a 45-minute operation yesterday.

The dog was discovered balancing on a tiny ledge, two storeys below the edge of the cliff, looking hungry and scared. It was hoisted up by Civil Protection Department rescuers who abseiled down for it.

Godric Marston, from the Animal Welfare Department, said the dog, which could not be more than a year old, must have spent at least three days on the ledge.

The rescue operation was handled by personnel from this department and Noah's Ark sanctuary staff, who were on site with their animal ambulance. The husky, which has a beautiful fluffy coat albeit matted and dirty after its ordeal, was very grateful to its rescuers and wagged its tail. It was extremely dehydrated and instantly lapped up the water given to it.

Those involved in the rescue have two theories: Either the dog was thrown off the cliff in the hope that the rope around its neck would suffocate it - but instead it luckily landed on the ledge; or else it was hoisted down.

Department director Mario Spiteri said the team was alerted to the dog's plight yesterday when a kind-hearted farmer heard the faint yelps of the terrified dog and called for help.

"The husky was discovered standing on a cliff's ledge barely big enough for him to fit... The poor dog was parched thanks to a monster of some mean sort who tried to dispose of the husky in a despicable way," Dr Spiteri said.

Fabio Ciappara, Noah's Ark founder, said the husky had now been seen by the vet and considering its ordeal was generally fine. All it needed was a good wash and a good brush.

"But at the moment it is resting and recovering. The poor dog is very scared," Mr Ciappara said.

Whoever wants to home the dog, which has a friendly demeanour, can call Noah's Ark on 7973 0900.