German shepherd helps police find owner after boat overturns — treads water for 11 hours
Dogs are loyal companions, sticking by your side through thick and thin. Even when a human companion might cut and run, a dog will usually be there right by your side to help you get through the most trying of circumstances. German shepherds, in particular, have a knack for reliability that is matched by few others, which is demonstrated in this next story.
Another day on the water
It was just another day Lance Schloss. He and his faithful companion, a German shepherd named Heidi, had gone out for a day on the water in Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia. Then the unthinkable happened, Schloss’ boat capsized, leaving him and Heidi treading water beside the overturned boat. Due to the current, the two were rapidly separated.
Treading water
All told, Schloss spent a total of 15 hours in the freezing water. Throughout the ordeal Heidi stayed afloat, treading water for 11 hours herself before she was spotted by a passing fisherman in the early morning hours. The fisherman pulled the dog from the water and immediately suspected something was amiss. He quickly alerted the local authorities.
The search begins
Soon, a massive search for the 63-year-old Schloss was on. In total, a rescue helicopter, Marine Safety Queensland jet ski, and four police vessels participated in the search. Eventually, after much searching, and with Heidi by their side, the searchers were able to find Schloss, clinging desperately to the side of his overturned craft.
Everyone ended up being okay in the end
Both dog and owner were taken to get medical treatment, Schloss to the hospital and Heidi to a local vet. Fortunately, neither was injured. Heidi was lauded by the police for saving her owner’s life. Without her treading water and staying afloat for so long, no one would have known to search for Schloss.
Queensland Police Service
The Queensland Police Service, in addition to its regular duties of protecting the Queensland area, also participates in water rescues like Schloss’. The organization aims to work with the community to make the Queensland area safer.
“Thankfully there was a happy ending to this search and Heidi was able to be our honorary PD for the day,” police said in a news release.
For more on the Queensland Police Service, check out the organization’s Website. You can also visit the department’s Facebook page for more information,
A matter of survival
As for Schloss, he said that his boat overturned after being hit by large waves. Once in the water, he knew it was important to stay with his boat, allowing him to stay afloat until help could arrive. Schloss was more worried about sharks and other sea animals.
“You take as many precautions as you can, and trust in luck, trust in God,” he said.
Watch this video with more on Heidi and her determination to stay afloat, which ultimately ended up helping to save her owner’s life.
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