A family walk along the shore turned into a high-stakes rescue in Gqeberha, South Africa, after an Australian Shepherd named Bean was swept into rough water and carried far offshore.
As The Herald reported, by the time rescuers reached him, the dog was cold, exhausted, and drifting in the swell.
Here's what to know
Multiple teams were sent to Pollok Beach after the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) received reports of a dog in trouble offshore. The paper said Bean had slipped free of his leash during an afternoon walk before a rip current pulled him away.
Help came from several directions, including lifeguards launching from Pollok Beach, Coastal Water Rescue swimmers responding from shore, the NSRI's Rescue 6 Alpha craft, and a bystander who paddled out on a Malibu rescue board, as The Herald reported.
Already far from the beach and showing signs of hypothermia, Bean was met by NSRI rescue swimmer Mike Vermeulen, who entered the water, secured the dog, and helped get him aboard.
From there, Bean was taken to the NSRI Gqeberha rescue station so crews could continue warming him, the paper noted.
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More background
Rip currents are a serious hazard at beaches around the world because they can carry people and animals away from shore with surprising speed.
A dog that runs into the water after a wave, bird, or floating object may not be able to make its way back once caught in the current.
That danger can also extend to owners and bystanders. In emergencies like this one, panic can push people to jump into the water without flotation gear or backup, creating an even larger rescue situation.
In Bean's case, trained responders and lifeguards were already in position to act, as The Herald reported. Because the NSRI crew was already assembled for routine training when the alert came in, valuable time was saved at the start of the response.
What's being done?
Bean's survival depended on a combined response that included shore swimmers, lifeguards, a rescue craft, and assistance from a nearby paddler. Dogs should be kept securely leashed near strong surf, especially on windy days or at beaches known for powerful currents.
If a pet is swept away, calling lifeguards or rescue services immediately is far safer than rushing into hazardous water. The NSRI emphasized the role of its prepared crews.
The ordeal ended with a positive update.
"Bean is now safely home, where he enjoyed a warm shower and is recovering in the care of his owners," the NSRI said, per The Herald.
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