Dog Rescued After Being Swept Out to Sea
Earlier this month, a family dog named Bean was miraculously saved after being swept over 650 feet offshore at Pollock Beach in Gqeberha, South Africa. Emergency responders received reports of the dog in distress.
A duty crew from the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) was nearby on a training exercise. They quickly responded to calls from the NSRI’s Emergency Operations Center. They launched a rescue craft and sent rescue swimmers into the water. Lifeguards and a bystander on a rescue board also joined the effort.
When the NSRI rescue craft reached the scene, about half a kilometer offshore, an NSRI rescue swimmer entered the water. He secured Bean and brought him safely aboard.
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Bean, an Australian Shepherd, appeared to be suffering from hypothermia. Rescuers wrapped him in blankets and used body heat to warm him. He was then taken to the NSRI Gqeberha rescue station for continued warming procedures.
A Happy Reunion
Bean had a contact number on his collar, which helped rescuers find his owners. They arrived at the rescue station for an emotional reunion.
The NSRI stated that Bean likely broke free from his leash during an afternoon walk and went into the ocean. His owners and bystanders tried to get him, but he was caught in a rip current and swept out to sea.
This incident highlights the importance of ensuring pets have collars and tags with up-to-date contact information. Bean is now safely home, recovering with his owners after a warm shower.
