Loyal Dog Left to Die by Rescuers After Staying by the Side of His Injured Owner

For many, pets are more than that. They’re an extension of family, a companion, and a sense of security. For example, a loyal dog may become a literal lifesaver in many cases. One heartbreaking tale occurred recently, a dog went above and beyond to ensure his owner was safe. Sadly, the rescue team was unable to save the dog.

Loyal Dog Stays Close

A man, whose identity has remained anonymous, recently suffered an injury. And his loyal dog lovingly guarded him until rescuers were on the scene. Purportedly, the loyal dog clung to its owner’s side when they became trapped by the tide. The pair were walking along Perranporth Beach in Cornwall when travelers noted the sounds of distressed cries. They immediately called 999, the UK’s emergency number, and reported the findings to local authorities.

“The tide was coming in fast and the beach below the cliffs was underwater.” Explains an eyewitness, Bruce Hargrove. “The man had fallen onto the rocks and hurt his leg. His dog had stayed by his side.”

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Arriving on Scene

The Coastguard quickly arrived, on the scene, in a helicopter and by lifeboat to rescue the man and his loyal dog. Sadly, rescuers couldn’t locate the beloved dog, as the tide continued to rise. The waters had become too dangerous to attempt another rescue mission when they finally located the loyal dog.

“We extend our condolences to the individual who lost their beloved dog in this incident.” Said a spokesman from the St Agnes Coastguard. “After some time, St Agnes rescue officer Tom spotted the dog, but unfortunately after every effort was made to try and retrieve it, we were unable to.”

Commenting on the Tragedy

“The primary duty of the St Agnes Coastguard is to save lives and conduct rescues. It is always challenging when our efforts do not result in the outcome we strive for.” Adds Tom. “We are deeply saddened by the outcome of this particular mission.”

Eyewitness Accounts

While many people empathize with the loyal dog, believing the coastguard could have done more, eyewitnesses ensure they did all they could. For example, dog-mom Michelle Mason shared that she witnessed crewmembers go out more than once to find the beloved and loyal dog. “The three RNLI guys shored up in front of the watering hole as it looked like they couldn’t get to the guy – hence the Coast Guard helicopter winched down their guy and they winched the man off the sea and rocks into the helicopter.” She said.

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What Makes a Loyal Dog?

Although this story is heartbreaking, it isn’t the first example of an incredibly loyal dog. Most dogs are true to their owners through thick and thin. Many stories have been told regarding a loyal dog’s willingness to face the elements of being with their family and overcoming unimaginable odds. It turns out multiple factors account for a loyal dog, including breeding, bonding, and instincts.

Breeding Creates a Loyal Dog

Generations ago, dogs became domesticated from wolves, exchanging food for a desired service such as hunting or protecting a home. Over time, obedient and loyal dogs, as well as those who fulfilled their ideal role, were cared for and continued to breed generations of dogs. Meanwhile, dogs that were overly aggressive, deemed unintelligent, or didn’t meet their owners’ needs weren’t as prized as their successful counterparts. As a result, dogs with undesirable traits were weeded out, leaving only intelligent, hardworking, or loyal dogs.

Packs Create a Loyal Dog

Like their wild ancestors, dogs instinctually follow a pecking order, noting that there is an alpha, one who runs the show. And the rest of the members of the pack follow suit. As a result, dogs instinctually and unwaveringly follow their leader.

Contact Matters

In contrast to their ancestors, who rarely look a trainer or handler in the eye, dogs form a deep bond with their owners when they share periods of eye contact. Moreover, eye contact coupled with physical contact, rewards, or quality time can help increase the likelihood that you will have a loyal dog.

There isn’t any scientific evidence that one breed will be more devoted or loyal than another. However, many breeds have been altered for various purposes like hunting, search and rescue, and so on. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that almost any dog can be trained to be a loyal dog, with some prompting and lots of treats.

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