On a chilly, overcast day in Long Beach, California, lifeguards with the Long Beach Fire Department Marine Safety Division spotted something unusual: a tiny figure struggling against the cold, choppy waves.
Earlier, a Good Samaritan had seen a small dog darting through a parking lot, racing across the sand, and plunging into the open ocean. Using binoculars, lifeguards could clearly see the dog paddling frantically, fighting to keep her head above water.
Marine safety officer Chase McColl quickly grabbed a rescue board and paddled out, guided from shore by fellow officer Devon Beebe. The task wasn’t easy — the sun was setting, visibility was low, and the water temperature hovered around 56 degrees Fahrenheit.
“The rescue happened right before sunset, which made it hard to see her swimming,” McColl told The Dodo. “The water was cold, but we were determined to get her out safely.”
When McColl reached the dog, she swam straight to him, exhausted but determined. He lifted her onto the board, holding her close to help her regain her strength.
“She was cold and tired, but also grateful to no longer be swimming,” McColl said.
Carefully, McColl and the little dog paddled their way back to shore.
Back on shore, the little dog was wary at first. But after being dried off with warm towels at the lifeguard station, her personality began to shine. She ran around happily, tail wagging, clearly relieved to be safe.
Rescuers later learned her name was Tofu. With the help of Animal Care Services, her family was located and reunited with their adventurous pup — overjoyed to have her back in their arms.
Though Tofu’s ocean adventure was risky, thanks to the quick thinking and skill of the rescue team, she made it home safe and sound. From now on, hopefully, her swimming days will be limited to the shoreline.
