A six-year-old Parson Russell Terrier named Cello has been rescued after spending two days trapped underground in a badger sett. Cello became lost in the network of tunnels while walking with his owner, Stephen Smith, in Hoveringham, Nottinghamshire, on 17 August.
Rescuers, including volunteers from Notts Lost Dogs and crews from Newark Fire Station, had to obtain a licence from Natural England before excavating part of the sett. This was necessary to avoid disturbing the badgers, which are a protected species, and to prevent the tunnels from collapsing.
Cello was eventually located about 60cm (2ft) underground using an inspection camera. He was unharmed and reunited with his owner following the ordeal. Mr Smith reported that Cello was dehydrated and hungry but has since made a full recovery.