Two beloved pet dogs that vanished while they were out for a walk in the hills are safe at home thanks to the smell of grilled sausages.
Miniature schnauzers Charlie and Theo were missing for four days after disappearing in thick fog on the Red Pike fell near Buttermere, Cumbria.
Distraught owners Liz and Graham Hampson launched a rescue campaign and sought help from mountain rescue teams, family and friends.
There was no sign of the dogs as more than 120 people and two drones scoured the hills, so Liz and Graham decided to try to lure them with their favourite bangers.
They set up a barbecue near the spot where Charlie and Theo, who are father and son, vanished and shouted the dogs’ names.
To their amazement, a short time later the dogs appeared through the trees, leading to an emotional reunion.
Liz, 49, from nearby Cockermouth, said: “When they first appeared it was like a mirage. I could not believe it was them.
“My husband ran up the hill to grab them as I was just shaking and crying. I could not function.
“The dogs are just gorgeous, and they are part of our family. It would be horrible not to have them around.
“They absolutely love sausages. They have them every Sunday for breakfast, so if there was one food they were going to come back for, it was sausages.”
Liz and Graham’s son John was walking Charlie, aged seven, and Theo, aged 15 months, on top Red Pike fell on June 16.
The weather turned at lunchtime and a thick mist rolled in, causing the 21-year-old to lose sight of the dogs.
He rang his mum straight away to let her know what had happened, and they immediately started to form a rescue party.
Liz said: “I was beside myself when John called. The dogs walk off lead when there is no livestock around and are used to being on the fells.
“It was a horrible phone call. We called our family and messaged friends and put out an appeal for people to look out for them on Facebook and Twitter.
“I also have a few friends who are part of mountain rescue groups so I asked if they could keep their eyes peeled if they were called out to a rescue.”
Liz and Graham spent the first night camping on the fell and calling the dogs’ names trying to get them to come back.
They then spent the next few days over Father’s Day weekend hiking all around the area in hot weather trying to find them.
On the morning of June 19, Mark Steel, a GP and member of Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team, said the dogs were likely on the other side of the fell, near Gillerthwaite.
Together they hatched a plan to get the dogs back, and started barbecuing sausages.
Liz said: “It was great to see them appear through the trees.”
“They were thin, and they smelled, but thankfully they’d kept themselves hydrated in the heat.
“We took them to the vets the next day and they were given a clean bill of health.”
She added: “My son is in the navy and we rang him first to tell him. A huge cheer went up on his ship.
“Charlie and Theo are actually dad and son so we’re now joking they had a Father’s Day weekend.
“And they’ve told us nothing about what happened. I guess what goes on tour, stays on tour.”
“Feeling the Birthday Vibes: Hoping for Some Love and Warm Wishes”
It’s a significant day for me today as it marks my birthday, and I’m hoping to receive affection and warm wishes from everyone. Birthdays are not only an opportunity to celebrate life but also an occasion to share love with our friends and family.
In honor of this special day, I came across an image that touched my heart and evoked strong emotions within me. The picture featured a dog with an innocent and playful expression, standing proudly beside a beautifully decorated birthday cake. Witnessing this sight was incredibly heartwarming.
It was evident that the dog understood the importance of the moment, manifesting pure elation and eagerness. Its eyes sparkled with anticipation, as if anticipating the magical moment when everyone would come together to sing “Happy Birthday.”
As one looks at the image, a surge of emotions is bound to arise within. It reminds us of the deep bond that exists between humans and animals. The dog’s presence in the festivities showcases the fundamental need for love, companionship, and the desire to be a part of something special.
The image has touched the hearts of people from all walks of life, resonating with them on an emotional level. As it circulates on social media platforms, the comment section overflows with an outpouring of affection and well-wishes. People express their love not only for the dog but also for the sentiment conveyed through the image.
One individual says, “This picture is a testament to the unwavering love that animals bring into our lives. Happy Birthday! May your day be filled with love and joy, just like this adorable dog.” Another person comments, “I’m moved to tears. It’s astonishing how something as uncomplicated as a dog and a birthday cake can stir such profound emotions in our hearts. Happy Birthday, dear friend! May your day be as magical as this image.”
This image serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love, the significance of connections, and the capability of simple gestures to evoke profound emotions. It symbolizes the universal desire for happiness and the hope that each birthday brings, another year filled with love, growth, and precious memories.
Today is my birthday, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the love and kindness that is showered upon me. The picture of a dog enjoying a birthday cake perfectly captures the spirit of the love and affection that I wish to share and receive on this occasion. Let us all cherish the happiness, warmth, and enchantment that birthdays bring and hold them dear in our hearts.
The elderly canine was beaming with delight during this significant moment. Its loyal companionship had lasted for more than fifteen years, and now, it was being celebrated in a unique way by its owner. The dog had been an unwavering presence in its owner’s life, providing comfort, loyalty, and unconditional love throughout the years. As the birthday celebrations commenced, the dog’s tail wagged uncontrollably, conveying its euphoria and enthusiasm. It was elated to know that this party was in honor of its existence.
The owner had invited close acquaintances and family members who had been witness to the unbreakable relationship between the dog and its human. Amidst the festivities, the aroma of savory delights filled the air, tempting both guests and the canine with their mouth-watering scent. The owner ensured that the spread included delectable treats that satisfied both human and canine taste buds.
Plates were laden with appetizing snacks, while a special cake designed specifically for dogs took center stage, decorated with canine treats and a solitary candle. This momentous occasion was one that the aging dog would never forget.
Amidst cheers and applause, the moment to cut the cake finally arrived. The furry friend, surrounded by loved ones, basked in the warmth of the affection showered upon it. With a gentle hand guiding its paw, it delicately touched the knife, symbolizing its participation in this memorable moment. The cake was then divided and shared, reflecting the bond between the dog and its human.
Throughout the day, the dog reveled in the attention and affection bestowed upon it. It felt content, knowing that its presence had touched the lives of those around it, just as they had profoundly impacted its own. Belly rubs, cuddles, and heartfelt words of appreciation poured in, making every moment precious.
The celebration continued into the evening, with games and playful activities that brought laughter and joy to everyone present. Despite its old age, the dog wholeheartedly engaged in the festivities, savoring every precious moment. Time seemed to stand still, and for a brief period, the dog felt the weight of the years lift off its shoulders, replaced by an overwhelming sense of happiness and belonging.
As the party drew to a close, the dog curled up at its owner’s feet, feeling a profound sense of fulfillment and love. Its eyes glistened with tears of sheer happiness, a testament to the depth of its emotions. The celebration marked a 15-year journey filled with unbreakable bonds, unwavering loyalty, and unconditional love.
In the end, it wasn’t just a birthday party; it was a commemoration of the remarkable journey shared by a dog and its owner. It was a tribute to the joy that a beloved pet brings into our lives, and for this aging dog, it was a reminder that its presence mattered.
As darkness enveloped the surroundings, the dog dozed off, feeling cocooned in adoration and appreciation. In its slumber, it relived the happenings of the day, the chuckles, and the delightful instants shared with loved ones. A grin broke across its muzzle, aware that it had lived through an extraordinary and memorable occasion – a birthday celebration that epitomized years of treasured moments.
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