A HAVE-A-GO hero put himself at risk after jumping into a river to save a dog which is believed to have been dumped and left to die.

Rosie, a Rottweiler cross Douge de Bourdeaux, was spotted struggling and stuck in mud up to her neck at the King Edward Quay on Sunday. 

After realising the severity of the situation, a passer-by dived into the River Colne without hesitation, grabbing the pooch and then using a rope to climb back to safety.

Rosie was then taken to a vet and cared for over several nights before being handed to Colchester dog wardens and then picked up by K9 Colchester Dog Rescue.

Tanya Malone, who founded the rescue centre back in April 2023, said: “She was very lucky and without the brave member of the public who jumped in to save her she would’ve drowned. 

“We have reason to believe she was thrown into the Quay - there were no trace marks.” 

Rosie understandably arrived at the rescue centre scared and traumatised but saved from being euthanised - a realistic fate had she been left unclaimed after seven days. 

Gazette:

According to the K9 centre, since arriving Rosie has not been willing to interreact and has been hiding at the back of her kennel.

“We will give her a few days and then we will take her to the vet, get her checked and bring all her vaccinations up to date," added Tanya. 

“We won’t push her rehoming and will observe her for a month. It is not our first case with a traumatised dog, so we know what we need to do. 

Gazette: Rescued - Dog Rosie, who is believed to had been thrown into the King Edwards Quay, was rescued by

 

Rosie's cruel story has touched the community, many of whom have donated to a fundraiser page which exceeded its target after less than 24 hours. 

“I just want to say thank you for the support we have been receiving," said Tanya.

"Once the public realised the cruel story, they donated very generously, and we are extremely grateful for everyone's support.”