by Craig manning

A SEACOMBE woman is warning of the dangers of discarded fishhooks, after her dog accidentally swallowed one during a Sunday morning walk.

Emma Niblock's daughter Nina was walking with 19-month-old cross Collie Lulu on New Brighton beach when the dog ate a fishhook.

The inch-long hook was caught in Lulu's throat. In order to remove the hook, surgeons had to open up Lulu's stomach. Lulu has been put on a three-month course of anti-inflammatory tablets. Emma says the spot where Lulu swallowed the hook is a popular spot with fishermen and told the Globe: "I would go through anything to get the dog back safe and well.

"All this trouble was down to carelessness and I would ask fishermen to take their used fish hooks home with them. Children and wildlife could be hurt from this."

The surgery, which took place at Acorn Vets in West Kirby and cost £600, saved Lulu's life and Emma, who lives near Seacombe promenade, is grateful for the treatment.

l Emma is pictured with Lulu and the fishhook which was caught in her pet's throat.