Nervous Dog Rescued from Bosham Mud by Coastguard Teams

A dramatic rescue unfolded in Bosham on Saturday evening (23 August) after a dog was reported stuck in the mud, sparking a large-scale response from Coastguard teams. Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team was paged at 7.28pm following reports of the animal in difficulty. On arrival, crews spotted the dog—still wearing a harness and with its lead […]

A dramatic rescue unfolded in Bosham on Saturday evening (23 August) after a dog was reported stuck in the mud, sparking a large-scale response from Coastguard teams.

Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team was paged at 7.28pm following reports of the animal in difficulty. On arrival, crews spotted the dog—still wearing a harness and with its lead attached—but with no owner in sight.

Members of the public told rescuers the dog was not completely trapped, as it had been moving around on the mud and salt marshes, but it was clearly distressed and too nervous to approach people.

With concerns growing, additional specialist mud teams were called in. Portsmouth Coastguard Rescue Team and Hillhead Coastguard Rescue Team joined Selsey on scene, deploying four mud technicians to carefully encourage the dog towards safer ground.

Using patience and some tasty treats, the crews slowly gained the frightened animal’s trust before managing to secure its lead. The dog was then reunited with friends of its owner, who had been away at the time.

The dog, who had bolted while out walking with a sitter, was taken home for a well-earned bath and rest.

A Selsey Coastguard spokesperson praised the teamwork involved:

“This rescue showed great team effort from all three teams to achieve the safe outcome that was needed.”

Crews stood down and returned to station at 11.14pm.

The Coastguard is reminding the public: in any emergency along the coast or at sea, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.