An 11-year old yellow Labrador retriever named Tessa had a very scary experience on Tuesday afternoon when she fell into a sinkhole in her backyard along Jones Road in the town of Falmouth, Massachusetts.
Tessa’s owner, David Velesig, had let his two dogs outside in the yard, but when he looked out just a few minutes later, Tessa was missing. He rushed outside to find his other dog who led him to the sinkhole where Tessa had fallen in; an abandoned shaft about two feet wide and 12 feet deep.
He immediately called 911 for help.
The Falmouth Fire Rescue, Falmouth Animal Control, the Barnstable County Technical Rescue Team, Hyannis Fire Rescue and police responded to the address. The shaft where the dog fell had extensive water damage, and there remained a high danger of collapse.
Crews stabilized the surface and determined that a traditional entry was too dangerous for firefighters. Instead, they opted for a surface rescue.
Two hours later, Tessa, lured over to the opening with some pepperoni, was safely pulled out of the hole. Needless to say, the dog was one happy pooch and finished the pepperoni treats.
The rescue teams stressed they were grateful that her owner called 911 immediately rather than attempting a dangerous solo rescue.
A special thank you to all of the partners:
• Local Agencies: Falmouth Police, Animal Control, DPW, Board of Health, and Emergency Communications.
• Technical & Fire Support: Barnstable County Technical Rescue Team, from Multiple Fire Departments throughout Cape Cod
• Private Partners: Mid Cape Home Center, Dalpe Excavation, and Dig Safe.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 24th, 2026 Contact: Deputy Scott Thrasher
Office: 508-495-2512
Email: [email protected]
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