Dog Rescued by RNLI After Cliff Fall Near Porthleven

RNLI Penlee launch all-weather lifeboat in dramatic response to fallen pet

A chocolate labrador called Nutmeg was rescued this morning after falling over a cliff between Rinsey and Porthleven, prompting a launch of the RNLI Penlee all-weather lifeboat just after 11am on Wednesday 9th July 2025.

Lifeboat rushes to help

The Ivan Ellen lifeboat was launched immediately under Coxswain Patch Harvey, along with five volunteer crew members. The lifeboat raced to Rinsey Head, where the search began for the missing dog.

After an extensive search along the coast, Nutmeg was located at Parc Trammel Cove near Porthleven. A cliff rescue team had also responded, but the location appeared inaccessible from above.

Y-boat team to the rescue

Patch dispatched the Ivan Ellen’s Y-boat, crewed by volunteers Lewis William and Chris Davey. They approached Nutmeg and found the dog with cuts and bruises to its face but otherwise seemingly unhurt.

Chris carried Nutmeg back to the Y-boat and returned to the Ivan Ellen, where the dog was given water, blankets, and a quick check-over.

Reunited at Porthleven Harbour

Due to the low tide at Porthleven, the Y-boat was relaunched to take Nutmeg into the harbour, where the dog was reunited with its owner, who was described as ‘very thankful’.

The lifeboat and its volunteer crew then returned to Newlyn, ready to prepare for their next call-out.

RNLI safety advice

The RNLI reminds the public that while it does rescue animals, this is to prevent members of the public getting into danger themselves. There have been many tragic incidents where people have entered the sea to save an animal and got into difficulty.

Their advice is:

• Keep dogs on leads near cliff edges or fast-flowing rivers

• Don’t enter the water or mud if your dog gets stuck

• Move to a safe place and call your dog – they usually get out themselves

• If you’re concerned about anyone in the water, including a dog, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard

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For more information on staying safe with your dog near the coast, visit the RNLI website: RNLI

A quick-thinking team, a grateful owner, and a lucky labrador – a job well done by Penlee’s volunteers.