Newhaven Lifeboat was launched yesterday evening (Thursday, September 24) to rescue a dog which had swam out to sea at Tide Mills.
The alarm was raised following a 999 call from the family of a pet dog called Misty, who had entered the water at around 6.45pm before losing her bearings and swimming out to sea.
The lifeboat and two volunteer crews were readied and launched along with the inflatable Y Boat.
The lifeboat was quickly on the scene and two crewmen entered the water to assist Misty, who was by this time struggling to swim and at a high risk of drowning.
One of the lifeboat crew managed to grab Misty, who was confused and frightened. During the rescue, the crew member suffered a bite.
Misty was then wrapped in a blanket and placed in the wheel house, where she quickly calmed down.
The lifeboat returned to station where it was met by Coastguards and Misty’s relieved owner.
An exhausted Misty was then taken to an emergency vet and the crewman to an out of hour’s doctor.
A Coastguard spokesperson said: “If your dog gets into trouble in the sea do not attempt a self-rescue. Dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
“A team of properly equipped properly trained professionals will respond immediately with access to lifeboats and helicopters”
The lifeboat returned to station and was ready for service shortly afterwards.
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