FIREFIGHTERS had to rescue a three-month-old puppy today after its head became wedged in a metal watering can.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service scrambled its animal rescue adviser to the home of Jackie Paterson in Portsmouth Road, Lee-on-the-Solent, where the Labrador had become stuck.

Watch manager Anton Phillips, with the help of Mrs Paterson and her mother, was able to cut away the watering can using bolt cutters after initial attempts to free the puppy, called Ted, with a hacksaw were unsuccessful.

Mr Phillips said: ''This was quite an unusual call. The watering can fitted like a glove around Ted's head and great care had to be taken to keep the pet calm.

''Ted's owner did a superb job in helping to placate him so I could concentrate on the rescue effort, whilst taking care to avoid injuring the distressed pup.

''Thankfully we were able to swiftly release Ted's head and he bounded away safely from his ordeal with no ill effects.'' Mrs Paterson said: ''The service provided was first-class. Having contacted the veterinary surgery, we were at a total loss as to what to do.

''We were therefore most grateful for the swift response of Hampshire Fire and Rescue and the expert assistance of watch manager Phillips.''