This dog stayed by her trapped friend for a whole week

Two missing dogs were found safe and well after going missing for a week in Washington State after one stood guard over her companion who had become trapped.

Tillie, a setter, stayed with basset hound Phoebe after she had fallen into a water cistern in a ravine.

The pair were found by Vashon Island Pet Protectors, after a member of the public called saying they had noticed a "reddish" dog had been coming up to them on their property but always quickly returned into the ravine.

"For nearly a week Tillie stayed by her side with the exception of the few minutes of each day when she went for help," said Vashon Island Pet Protectors who also called it "a humbling example of the power of love".

Pic via VIPP

Although the identies of the dogs’ owners is unclear, VIPP had been looking for the two dogs.

On Facebook, they described the moment they found the two.

"We made our way into the ravine and after a bit of searching, finally heard that sweet sound we have been waiting for all week. A small one-woof response when we called out "Tillie." A few minutes later we found her laying beside an old cistern with her head resting on the concrete wall.

"Heart sinking...we knew that meant Phoebe was inside the cistern and every breath was held and every doggie prayer offered that the peek over the rim would somehow find her safe. And gratefully... this time we have a happy ending with dear Phoebe found perched on some concrete rubble that held her out of the water."

Pic via VIPP

The story has now gone viral with the VIPP Facebook post shared over 3,500 times and both dogs are said to be doing well.