Heroic rescue: Dog saved from distress in Hermanus Harbour

A dog in distress was rescued from the water at Hermanus New Harbour early on Christmas Day, with the National Sea Rescue Institute now appealing for the animal’s owners to come forward.

According to NSRI Hermanus duty coxswain James Janse van Rensburg, the rescue unfolded shortly after sunrise.

“At 6.26am on Thursday, December 25, NSRI Hermanus duty crew were activated following eyewitness reports of a dog appearing to be in distress swimming in the Hermanus New Harbour,” he said.

NSRI rescue swimmers responded immediately and the rescue craft JetRIB was launched. On arrival, crews found a mixed-breed male dog trapped on rocks.

An NSRI rescue swimmer was deployed and successfully secured the animal before bringing him safely aboard the rescue craft.

The dog was transported to the NSRI Hermanus Station 17 rescue base, where re-warming treatment was started after he was found to be hypothermic. Crew members provided care, comfort and attention while efforts were made to locate the owner.

“There appeared to be no signs of the owners of the dog,” Janse van Rensburg said.

NSRI duty controllers then contacted animal welfare organisations for assistance, with the Whale Coast Veterinary Clinic stepping in to help.

A veterinarian responded at the clinic while NSRI transported the dog for further treatment. The dog, believed to be about a year old, received medical care including sutures for a wound and intravenous therapy.

The animal is reported to be recovering well and in good spirits. He remained at the clinic overnight in the care of veterinary staff while a plan of action is established.

NSRI has thanked Whale Coast Veterinary Clinic for its swift assistance and care, and also commended the eyewitnesses who raised the alarm, as well as the rapid response by the Hermanus rescue crew.

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Cape Argus