A Shar Pei puppy called Obi has been rescued after being caught by a fishing hook in Cornwall. The seven-week-old pet became curious and bit a lure attached to a fishing rod. He yelped in pain when the hook became embedded inside his cheek.
His owners said the fishing rod had been left unattended for all of one minute, with the bright, toy-like lure still attached. Obi’s owner, Lea, spotted the lure protruding from his cheek. She did not try to pull it out herself, and instead took him straight to the team at Falmouth Vets for Pets for urgent help.
Obi was placed under anaesthetic so the team could safely treat the injury. Because the hook was embedded on the inside of his cheek, they made an incision on the outside of the cheek, then cut the hook and carefully removed it.
Dr Emma Campbell, practice owner and veterinary surgeon at Falmouth Vets for Pets, said: “Obi was very lucky that Lea acted so quickly and did exactly the right thing by not pulling at the hook. When something sharp is lodged in a pet’s mouth or cheek, trying to remove it at home can cause more damage, so veterinary care is really important.
“Our team worked carefully to make sure Obi was safe and comfortable throughout. Cases like this are also a timely reminder during the summer months to keep fishing rods, hooks, lines and lures well out of reach of pets.
“Though it was as soon as their backs were turned, bright tackle can be very tempting, especially for curious puppies, and they can be lured in before anyone has a chance to stop them.”
Lea Thomas said: “It was horrible hearing Obi yelp and seeing the lure hanging from his mouth, but the team were brilliant with him. I was so relieved to hear he was recovered so quickly and got lots of extra cuddles.”
Being so young and away from his mum and siblings, Obi needed a little extra comfort after treatment. He spent time napping and being cared for by the reception team.
Puppy Obi Saved After Fishing Hook Injury in Cornwall