Cairn in a Coalmine: Trapped Dog Survives 2 Weeks

April 13, 2001
Rothbury, Northumberland, UK

After nearly two weeks lost in a coal bunker, Jenny the Cairn terrier is back home safe and sound.

Reverend Angela Treweeks, Jenny's 66-year-old owner, remembers the day her 5-year-old dog ran off chasing a rabbit.  The rabbit came back, but no Jenny.

Rev. Treweeks and neighbors spent the next 10 days scouring the fields of Pondicherry with no success.

"This little companion that has been with you suddenly disappears, and naturally you fear the worst," said Rev. Treweeks, who had believed Jenny got herself stuck in a rabbit hole.

Editor's note: Don't laugh; it happens!  Not long ago, a New Zealand dog spent an entire month in a rabbit hole (read the March 3 article: "Maggie in Wonderland").

On the 11th day, Rev. Treweeks's brother heard whining coming from the coal bunker in the back garden.  A few, frantic shovels later, the coal-covered Cairn terrier appeared and rushed into her owner's arms.

"There she was, jet black and very thin.  But she certainly made her presence felt when we found her," Rev. Treweeks said.

"She was rushing around to make sure everything was still there."

Although Jenny did suffer some slight liver damage, she was otherwise unscathed.  It is believed that she was able to avoid dehydration by drinking melted snow and condensation.  Food is not as vital, but dogs can typically survive only a week without water, according to the veterinarian who treated Jenny.

A meal and two baths later, the enthusiastic terrier was ready to go find that rabbit.

This time, don't forget your Tally Lamp, Jen.

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