THEY say curiosity killed the cat.

But it was Scooby the dog’s inquisitive nature that nearly led to an early trip to canine heaven.

The eight-year-old springer spaniel from Golcar sprung too far and fell 50ft from a cliff top on to a cove below.

Scooby had been sniffing around some bushes on coastal path at Holy Island, on Anglesey North Wales, on Sunday, when he lost his footing.

He had been on a walk with his owner Maggie Owen and her daughter Eleanor, who had been visiting Maggie’s parents.

Thankfully some fellow walkers called the coastguard who were scrambled in 10 minutes to rescue the stricken dog.

A boat picked up Scooby, who was whining in pain, and whisked him away to a vet in nearby Holyhead.

While no obvious fractures were found, Scooby is awaiting tests.

He is not thought to have sustained any serious injuries.

Ms Owen, 57, said: “I think he was just getting carried away with himself.

“We saw him in some bushes on the edge. We didn’t realise he was so close to the edge.

“He must have sniffed something and the next thing he was down in this little cove.

“We tried to entice him up and it became obvious he had hurt his leg and couldn’t get up.

“Some other walkers were very helpful. They took charge and got the coastguard. We’ve a lot to thank them for and the coastguard. They were really quick.

“I was very worried about him. We didn’t know how he had got down there.

“He’s a very friendly and bouncy dog and he’s ready to bound into any situation which is what got him into trouble.

“He’s very dopey because he’s on painkillers at the moment.

“I’m very glad I’ve got my dog back in one piece.”