Blind Old Dog Gets Rescued After Being Swept Out To Sea
Fly, a blind, 12-year-old border collie felt the same pull to the ocean many humans feel.
While spending an afternoon with his dad Mark Cowing at Lepe Beach in southern England, Fly decided he needed to cool off. Trotting down the beach, he let his nose lead the way to the shoreline, but when he went to dip his toes in the water, he changed course and went all the way in. Whether there was a rip current or he just became ambitious, he was 20-30 feet out to sea when Mark spotted him and jumped into action.
Mark immediately stripped down and jumped in after his helpless dog. He knew there was no way he’d be able to find his way back to shore.
Fly disappeared in the waves before Mark could get to him, though, and the dog dad was starting to struggle against the current himself. When a kayaker saw him waving for help, he paddled over and brought him safely back to shore. But Mark wasn’t ready to give up on Fly, so he contacted rescue officials who searched both by air and sea until he was spotted by the helicopter.
The rescue crew posted photos of the operation on Facebook saying, “The dog, which was completely blind was in grave difficulties and the lifeboat arrived just in time.”
Mark Harker, a member of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, swept the waterlogged pooch up and delivered him straight to one incredibly relieved and grateful dog dad!
Exhausted and hungry from the ordeal, Fly scarfed down a massive meal before falling into a deep sleep.
Mark is incredibly grateful for all the rescue officials who helped save his dog’s life that day, and he’s still trying to track down the kayaker, whose name he didn’t catch in all the drama. So, Mr. Kayaker, if you’re reading this, get in touch!
Traumatic as this experience was, it would’ve been so much worse if it hadn’t been for all the selfless people who saw a stranger in need and jumped in to help. Share to spread thanks this story had a happy ending!