A beloved family dog is back home and unharmed after surviving a dramatic fall of nearly 100ft (30m) down a cliff in Shetland. The young collie, named Whisp, slipped over the edge near Heylor on Shetland’s north mainland on Thursday, landing on a small rocky ledge far below.
The fall left Whisp stranded in a frightening and precarious position. The ledge was too narrow and unstable for him to move safely, and the steep drop beneath made any attempt at climbing impossible. With the tide below and the rugged cliffs offering no safe path from the sea, it was clear the dog needed expert help.
Around 11:00, HM Coastguard teams were dispatched to the scene. Once they arrived, they assessed the situation and prepared for a technical rope rescue. The cliffs in the area are known for their height and difficulty, making the operation both delicate and risky. Carefully securing their equipment, a trained rescuer descended the cliff face toward the frightened collie.
Whisp stayed on the ledge as the rescuer approached, and after a slow, cautious process, the collie was safely secured. Using ropes, the team worked together to lift him back up the cliff, inch by inch, ensuring his safety every step of the way.
By roughly 14:00, Whisp was finally brought to the top, where he was reunited with his relieved owner. Despite the long fall and the hours spent waiting on the cliffside, the Coastguard reported that Whisp was “safe and well” and “remarkably unscathed,” much to the amazement of everyone involved.
Rescuers expressed relief that the incident had ended positively. Thanks to the quick call for help and the Coastguard’s skillful response, what could have been a tragic situation turned into a heartwarming rescue story. Whisp, who seemed more shaken than injured, was soon back on secure ground—no doubt happy to be out of danger and back with the people who love him.