A dog is now being praised as a hero after she swam for 11 straight hours to raise alarm after her owner’s boat capsized in the waters of Queensland.
Heidi, the dog, was spotted by a passing fisherman swimming in the Moreton Bay amongst boat debris like fuel tank, a wetsuit, and a tackle box.
When the fisherman saw the German Shepherd they contacted the authorities right away.
The authorities immediately launched a search and rescue mission for Heidi’s owner.
As part of the rescue mission, the Queensland Police brought out big guns, a Rescue 500 helicopter, four police vessels, a Marine Safety Queensland Jetski, the Marine Rescue, and the Marine Coast Guard.
After constant searching, the authorities found the owner of Heidi clinging to his overturned boat.
The owner, who is 63 years old, was hauled back to safety.
The owner explained to the authorities how his boat lost power the night before the incident and how it started to take in water.
The 63-year-old owner said he was in the water for 15 hours and was hoping someone would come to his aid.
Jay Bairstow, the Senior Sergeant for the Brisbane Water, released a statement about the incident.
Sergeant Bairstow said, “We would take this opportunity to remind boaties to plan for the worst when they’re out on the water. Always wear personal flotation device and ensure that your safety equipment, including EPIRBs, are tested and in good order.”
“Thankfully there was a happy ending to this search and Heidi was able to be our honorary PD for the day.”
It is said that Heidi, the pet pooch of the unnamed 63-year-old, swam for up to 11 hours in the dark as she tried to find someone that could help her and her owner.
That’s hard work and dedication right there.
For those that are wondering about the health of Heidi, she is fine.
The authorities said Heidi was scooped up from the shallow waters and was brought to the vet so she could be assessed.
She did not sustain any injuries from the incident.
The police said Heidi was given some food and rest for nearly 6 hours before she was returned to her owner.
If you think Heidi deserves more, you’re right.
And that’s why the Queensland Police made Heidi honorary police for the day.