Cow's Moovers — Dog Walker Takes To The Trees After Calf Raises Alarm

A morning dog walk turned into an emergency service call-out when a man was forced to climb a tree to escape an angry cow in Whiteley Bank yesterday (Wednesday).

The incident happened on a public footpath shortly before 9.30am on Wednesday, after the man noticed an escaped calf nearby.

Moments later, a cow — believed to be the calf’s mother — charged through a fence in full protective mode, making it clear this was no place for a casual stroll.

With little time to think, the dog walker made a quick decision to branch out… straight up a tree, where he remained while help was called.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service control room operators stayed in contact with the man as crews from Shanklin and Newport were sent to the scene.

Firefighters spent around 90 minutes dealing with the situation.

On arrival, crews found the man still safely perched above ground, with the agitated cow firmly positioned below, clearly guarding her territory.

A local farmer was called in and was able to calmly herd both the cow and calf into a nearby field, allowing the path to be cleared.

The man was then able to climb down and reunite with his dog, who had been waiting nearby throughout the drama.

A spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service reminded people to take care around livestock.