Both Wicklow RNLI lifeboats were launched at teatime on Friday evening (14 July) following reports of a dog in the water south of Wicklow harbour.
The alarm was raised by gardaí in Wicklow who were concerned that the dog owners would instinctively try to rescue their pet and risk injury.
At 6.32pm the inshore lifeboat launched and was followed a short time later by the all-weather lifeboat. Both proceeded south to the foot of cliffs at Wicklow Golf Course.
The inshore lifeboat was on scene four minutes after launching in a position 200m south of Travelahawk beach.
In challenging sea conditions, helm Alan Goucher was able to get the lifeboat ashore and locate the dog.
The inshore lifeboat volunteers made repeated attempts to retrieve the dog, but it retreated into caves on the shoreline each time.
Eventually the dog made its own way back up the cliff where it was retrieved by its anxious owners. With the dog back in safe hands, the lifeboat crews were stood down by the coastguard and returned to station.
The call-out was a milestone for trainee Liz Thomas as she went to sea on her first ‘shout’ as an all-weather lifeboat volunteer.
Speaking after the call-out, Wicklow RNLI press officer Tommy Dover said: “We were happy to help and would remind dog owners to ensure to look after their own personal safety and do not get into danger trying to attempt a rescue themselves.
“Always keep your dog on a lead when you’re close to cliff edges or fast -lowing rivers. Don’t go after your dog if they go into the water. If you are worried about your dog, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
