Labrador Ted’s 26-foot plunge into a Victoria mine shaft triggered a tense rescue on Pronk Track, as loyal Labradoodle Penny stood agitated vigil above. Firefighters and the Oscar 1 rescue crew worked for hours, providing Ted with food and water before reuniting him with his owners and canine companion.

Firefighters, alerted by Penny’s anxious vigil, descended into the abandoned shaft to save Ted, while neighbors and the Country Fire Authority crew secured nearby hazards. “When we arrived, Penny was quite agitated,” said Fire Brigade Capt. David Wheeldon, underscoring the drama of Ted’s ordeal.

Rescuers found Penny faithfully guarding the shaft for days, refusing to leave until Ted was safely pulled to the surface at 2:53 p.m.