A DUNFERMLINE dog had to be brought back to the dead after he choked on an apple core.

Ian and Jackie Mackay, of Ross Street, had rushed their beloved 17 year-old pet, Taz, to Inglis Vets Hospital on Halbeath Road because he had started to make retching noises and foam at the month just moments after snacking on the healthy treat.

Staff discovered the apple core had become lodged in his throat and had to spring into action when crossbreed Taz’s heart stopped.

Vet Laura Dugdale removed the apple core before veterinary nurse Martha McShane performed CPR and brought him back to life.

Martha said: “It was very lucky Taz’s owner got him to us as quickly as he did, otherwise the outcome may not have been as fortunate.

"Taz stayed with us overnight so we could continue to monitor him and he was fine to head home the next day.”

Vet Laura warned West Fifers to be careful with what their pets eat.

“Unfortunately, it can be easy for dogs to choke on the likes of apples and we would always recommend pet owners be selective with the treats they give and always supervise their pet eating,” she said. 

“Both Martha and I were just so happy Taz pulled through – he’s definitely a lucky boy!”

Ian and Jackie were incredibly relieved to have their companion home.

Ian said: “Taz is our miracle dog. We rehomed him when he was nine. At that point, he was so timid because he’d been badly treated at his last home. 

“Now, at 17, he’s incredibly full of life and we’re overjoyed to have been given more time with him.

“His eyesight and balance isn’t that great. 

“After fetching the piece of apple, he stumbled and fell and we think that’s what caused him to choke.”