It was a happy ending for all after Taupo firefighters worked tirelessly to rescue a dog that got itself into a smelly situation - stuck in a sewage pond.
Firecrews were called to Taupo's sewage treatment facility near Rickit St on Saturday about 3pm to rescue a rottweiler that found itself in a deep oxidation pond with no way out.
A contractor mowing lawns at the water treatment facility spotted the pooch and called fire crews to help.
Taupo fire station officer Al Green said fire fighters initially used a ladder and tried to coax the dog, who was stuck about 3m deep, out of the pond.
The pound was only about half full at the time, but the walls of the pool were slopped at an angle which would have made it impossible for the dog to get out by itself, he said.
When the first attempt failed, a firefighter was secured by line and was able to get access down the sloping wall so he could grab the dog by the collar and help him to safety.
The firefighter managed to complete the task without getting near the muck below.
After the ordeal the dog had a good wash down with a hose.
"We were a bit relieved that he [the dog] didn't shake and splash us all with the nasty stuff," Mr Green said.
He said he did not know how long the dog had been stuck, but it was clearly tired after the rescue.
The SPCA was then contacted and was able to get in touch with the dog's owner, who was reunited with the pet.
"It was definitely a case of happily ever after for the dog. It was a good result and we're pleased he was returned to his owner safe and well."