A 15-YEAR-OLD deaf and blind dog has been miraculously pulled from the river Wye alive after two days missing from his Hereford home.

Anglers spotted the labrador collie cross struggling in the water near Hunderton Bridge, pulling him free before wrapping him in coats.

The dog’s family, the Haggetts of Hunderton Road, were overcome with relief as they were reunited with the beloved pet they have had since he was a puppy.

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Children Jordan, 22, Ben, 20, and Sarah, 16, have grown up with the loveable pet they call Smudge.

Parents Teresa, 49, and Duane, 50, said the public appeal to help them find Smudge had left them feeling overwhelmed.

Smudge with his owner Teresa Hoggett. Picture: Rob Davies

Smudge with his owner Teresa Hoggett. Picture: Rob Davies

Posts on social media, including on Hereford Times accounts, were shared thousands of times after Smudge, who has twice been diagnosed with cancer, went missing on Friday (December 3).

But after 24 hours, the family had resigned themselves to the fact he wasn’t coming home. They walked the streets for the two days Smudge was missing, investigating sightings and searching the area, going as far as Belmont Woods to try to find him.

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After the anglers pulled him free from the river on Sunday morning, a visit to the vet showed Smudge had an infection. He was then uncharacteristically quiet for a few days, but by Tuesday evening had started to become more himself, tucking into treats his rescuers had bought him.

Once back home, he was reunited with Tessa, a German shepherd, and Jack Russell Brax.

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The family said they wanted to send a massive thank you to the anglers, everyone who shared social media posts, and those who gave up their time to search the city.

Duane said it had been quite a week, not only having celebrated his 50th birthday and wedding anniversary, but also his son’s daughter had been born.

Match coordinator from Hereford and District Angling Association Dave Roberts near where Smudge was rescued from the river Wye by anglers. Picture: Rob Davies

Match coordinator from Hereford and District Angling Association Dave Roberts near where Smudge was rescued from the river Wye by anglers. Picture: Rob Davies

Hereford and District Angling Association said it was anglers fishing the ABC Baits Winter League Match who were able to pull Smudge free.

Ant Taylor and Phil Amos together with other anglers then set about getting in the water and rescuing the dog after Rory Jones and Rob Brennan spotted him.