Dog sparks rescue operation after swimming 1.5 miles out to sea chasing bird near North Berwick

A bird-chasing pooch sparked a major rescue operation after swimming more than a mile out to sea chasing its feathered quarry.

The team had previously met Bella when she took a swim

Bella, a highly energetic Pointer, got more than her recommended daily dose of exercise, and a good wash, after her maritime swim.

The alarm was raised by Bella’s owner on Tuesday afternoon after she dashed off in pursuit of a herring gull.

North Berwick Coastguard Rescue team were called out on their 15th incident of the year after they were notified she was in the water requiring assistance.

When the teams arrived police were helping the owner

Coastguards from North Berwick and Fisherrow and the Kinghorn RNLI lifeboat were tasked to attend Seton Sands to save poor Bella.

On the scene, they found her owner with police officers trying to encourage Bella back to shore – after she had paddled a mile and a half out into the chilly waters.

Despite the mercy crews speeding to the scene, Bella was able to make it ashore under her own steam.

‘Dogs can be unpredictable’

In a post on their Facebook page, the North Berwick Coastguard Rescue team reminded people that if people see someone or something you are concerned about on the shoreline, cliffs, mud or water they are able to call the emergency services and ask for the Coastguard.

The post added: “We have actually met Bella, a pointer, a while back when she undertook another ad hoc endurance swim.

“Bella’s very grateful owner did the right thing in calling for help. Yes this is the second incident, however, dogs can be unpredictable and we would far rather be there to prevent others from attempting to assist and prevent harm to the animal.

“One happy dog and a very grateful owner.

“Remember, if you see someone or something you are concerned about on the shoreline, cliffs, mud or water, call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard. If in doubt, call!”

According to advice from a leading Scottish animal welfare charity, dogs should also be social distancing.

Scottish SPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn said it was vital to exercise pets during the pandemic, but said dogs, like their owners, should stay apart to minimise the chance of the virus spreading. The Scottish Government issued coronavirus guidance to animal owners over the weekend.