A seven-week-old puppy needed emergency veterinary treatment after a fishing hook became embedded in his cheek when he bit onto a lure attached to a fishing rod in Falmouth.
Shar Pei puppy Obi was rushed to Falmouth Vets for Pets after the incident, which happened when a fishing rod was left unattended with a bright lure still attached.
According to his owner, Lea Thomas, the curious puppy bit the lure before suddenly yelping in pain.
She quickly discovered the lure protruding from Obi's cheek and took him straight to the veterinary practice for urgent treatment.
Veterinary staff placed Obi under anaesthetic before carrying out a procedure to remove the hook.
The hook had become embedded inside the puppy's cheek, meaning vets needed to make an incision on the outside of the cheek before cutting the hook and carefully removing it.
Dr Emma Campbell, practice owner and veterinary surgeon at Falmouth Vets for Pets, said Obi was fortunate that his owner acted quickly and resisted the temptation to remove the hook herself.
She 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."
After treatment, Obi made a swift recovery and received extra care from staff at the practice.
Because of his young age, the puppy spent time resting and being comforted by the reception team before heading home.
Lea Thomas said: "It was horrible hearing Obi yelp and seeing the lure hanging from his mouth, but the team were brilliant with him.
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"I was so relieved to hear he recovered so quickly and got lots of extra cuddles."
The practice is using Obi’s experience to remind pet owners and anglers to keep fishing tackle securely out of reach of animals, particularly during the summer months when more people are spending time outdoors.
Staff are also urging owners to contact a vet immediately if a pet becomes caught by a hook or fishing line.
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