For centuries, dogs have been the perfect companion for humans, being even very useful for certain rescue activities. As an example, we can name the excellent work that police dogs, guide dogs or dogs do on a daily basis. rescue dogs. Although the latter are not yet well established in Spain, they enjoy great popularity in countries such as France, Italy or the United Kingdom. We talk about his training and his important work.
These heroes have remained practically anonymous in Spanish territory until the arrival of Bruno, a black Newfoundland considered the first lifeguard dog from the country. Since 2014, the furry is part of the aquatic rescue team on the beach of San Pedro del Pinatar, in Murcia. Together with his owner, David Álvarez, he helps save everyone who needs it.
However, in other European countries it is common to see how these animals are integrated into aquatic rescue services, even going so far as to travel with their human companions in helicopters and motor boats. They are a great advantage when carrying out these works, and it is that their great strength, endurance and agility It allows them to drag up to two adults at the same time in the water and even carry unconscious people.
Among the breeds most used for this purpose we find the Labrador and the Golden Retriever, although the Newfoundland it is the most suitable. This is thanks not only to its incredible strength and size, but also to its peculiar webbed feet (a characteristic it shares with the Labrador), which help it to be an excellent swimmer. In addition, its double coat of hair prevents its skin from getting wet and allows this dog to withstand surprisingly low temperatures.
Despite all these skills, a rescue dog should never work alone, but should be accompanied or supervised at all times by an expert lifeguard. The rescues carried out with the help of the animal are carried out by the conventional process, only that most of the force is exerted by the dog.