Another dog gets stuck in the mud at Castle Ring

Jun 25 2009 by Matt Lloyd, picture by Owen Strudwick

Another dog walker has come forward with a harrowing tale following last week’s Post story about a dog sinking in a bog at Castle Ring.

We reported how a Boney Hay woman’s dog Dylan had a narrow escape when he ran off the path and began sinking in muddy wetland.

The large dog sank up to his neck in the quicksand-like mud before being rescued.

After reading the story Michelle Pinches got in touch saying her boxer dog, Major, nearly drowned at the same spot just a few weeks earlier.

Michelle said: “I had exactly the same experience about a month ago when my boxer dog nearly drowned.

“I was unable to help as I had my two-year-old daughter with me and was frightened to death if I went to help the poor animal that my daughter would follow and fall in herself.

“Fortunately Major was able to get himself free, thank goodness, but he is now under the vet for treatment for a poorly leg which had previously been operated on.

“I would like to second what the lady said in the article and say how dangerous this is and could possibly have ended in the death of our dog.

“It could have been a lot more serious, especially when there are children around.

“There may be signs around but obviously they are not detailing how dangerous and life-threatening this pool/mud is.”

Cannock Chase Council, which manages Castle Ring, advises walkers to stick to the footpaths and keep dogs on leads at all times.

A spokesman said: “The area is fenced off and access is not allowed because it is known to be a wetland area.

“There are signs saying dogs should be kept on leads. It’s an ecologically thriving area so we don’t want to drain it.

“We would urge people not to enter fenced off areas for their own safety.”