Derbyshire woman, 93, reunited with 'lost' dog found trapped underneath a chair in the house

An elderly Matlock woman was reunited with her ‘lost’ dog Toby after a police officer visiting her house found him trapped under a reclining chair.
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The 93-year-old called Derbyshire police twice last weekend (October 10-11) in a very distressed state about her dog Toby, a chesnut-and-white Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, who had gone missing two days previously.

Concerned about the woman’s wellbeing, PC Tammy Wood visited her home to check she was okay and see if there was any support or help she may need.

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While PC Wood was there talking to the elderly lady about the situation, she helped her to reach an item which had fallen on the floor. As she knelt down she noticed Toby was lying quietly underneath the woman’s recliner.

A bodycam image of Toby, shared by Derbyshire PoliceA bodycam image of Toby, shared by Derbyshire Police
A bodycam image of Toby, shared by Derbyshire Police

Very carefully, PC Wood freed Toby from under the chair. Although he had been missing for almost two days he appeared to be well; just hungry and thirsty.

PC Wood said: “Both Toby and his owner appeared to be over the moon to be reunited, and it was clearly a huge relief for the woman. Her family, friends and neighbours had all been out looking for Toby but she was becoming ever more distressed as time went on believing he had managed to get out, and fearing the worst.

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“Our pets are companions and become members of the family. I’m just very pleased that we were able to put the woman’s mind at rest and make sure her dog was safe.”

PC Wood made sure Toby was fed and watered before leaving the home, and checked to see if the woman and her family needed any further support.

Police managed to take a picture of Toby from PC Wood’s body-worn video camera as he followed her into the kitchen for a drink and some food.

Residents in the Derbyshire Dales who want to report a lost or found dog should contact Derbyshire Dales District Council’s contractor, Crowfoot Kennels, on 01283 585510.