FEEL GOOD | NSRI rescues dog 500 metres out to sea

A dramatic sea rescue in Gqeberha ended with a heartwarming reunion after a dog was swept 500 metres offshore at Pollock Beach.

The incident happened on Saturday afternoon, 15 August, when the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Gqeberha crew were alerted to reports of a dog in distress in the water.

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NSRI Rescue 6 Alpha was launched while Coastal Water Rescue swimmers responded. Local lifeguards also went to assist, while a Good Samaritan is believed to have launched on a Malibu rescue board.

When the NSRI rescue craft reached the area, the dog was approximately 500 metres offshore.

Suffering from hypothermia

NSRI rescue swimmer Mike Vermeulen entered the water and managed to secure the animal before bringing him safely aboard the rescue craft.

The dog, named Bean, is a male Australian Shepherd.

He appeared to be suffering from hypothermia and was wrapped in blankets and kept warm by the rescue swimmer during the journey back to shore.

Emotional moment

Bean’s collar contained a telephone number, allowing rescuers to contact his owners. They soon arrived at the NSRI’s Gqeberha rescue base, where they were reunited with their dog in an emotional moment.

According to the NSRI, Bean had escaped from his leash during an afternoon walk before entering the ocean.

His owners and bystanders attempted to retrieve him, but he was caught in rip currents and swept out to sea.

Once safely home, Bean was given a warm shower and continued recovering under the care of his owners.

The NSRI commended the lifeguards, Good Samaritan and rescue crews who responded quickly to the emergency.

The rescue serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by strong rip currents, which can quickly carry people – and animals – away from the shoreline.