SAN DIEGO (AP) - A remarkable rescue occurred off the San Diego coast when a black Labrador retriever-mix named Sadie was swept out to sea by a rip current. The incident took place last month while her owners were enjoying a football game in a rental home. In an effort to locate Sadie, her owners used an Airtag attached to her collar, and their search quickly led them to the coastline where surfers reported seeing a dog caught in a rip current near the jetty in Ocean Beach.
The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department coordinated the search efforts, involving both lifeguards and the U.S. Coast Guard. Lifeguards Garrett Smerdon and Jack Alldredge participated in a thorough search using personal watercrafts, scouring the area for more than an hour. As the search was scheduled to conclude, Alldredge remained hopeful and prayed for Sadie's safe return, understanding that Labrador retrievers are known for their swimming abilities and resilience.
Just as they were about to give up, Alldredge spotted something in the water. Upon getting closer, the lifeguards joyfully identified the distressed dog as Sadie. Smerdon described the moment of discovery, expressing their excitement at finding her. When the lifeguards reached Sadie, she appeared tired but was visibly happy to see them.
Sadie was found approximately a half-mile offshore near South Mission Beach, and lifeguards transferred her to a surf boat, which then took her back to shore. There, a heartfelt reunion took place between Sadie and her owners, Alexis Barcellos and Brandon Valdez. In a video message, Barcellos reflected on the emotional moment the animal was located, recalling the relief and joy upon hearing that Sadie was alive. The couple expressed immense gratitude for the successful rescue efforts.
Despite escaping the turbulent waters, Sadie had sustained injuries to her paws and nails from trying to climb the jetty. For nearly a week, Barcellos and Valdez helped their beloved pet, carrying her around as she recuperated. Fortunately, her spirits remained high throughout her recovery, and just recently, she made her first visit to a pet store since her dramatic rescue, where she was able to pick out a treat. Additionally, she embarked on her first 1.5-mile walk, demonstrating her resilience and improving health.
Barcellos emphasized her gratitude, stating, "We are just beyond grateful she is home safe with us." The entire episode not only highlights the bond between pets and their owners but also showcases the dedicated efforts of local lifeguards and the community in rescuing those in need, regardless of the circumstances.
