Saving a Drowning Dog: Stay Out of Floodwater

The body of an Ottumwa, IA teen was recovered after heavy rains caused flash flooding along the Des Moines river.. The teen reportedly jumped into the rising water to save a dog that had been swept off the bank, and was overcome by the heavy current. According to KCCI TV8 News, Marco Orroyo made an attempt to rescue the dog, but then failed to come back to the surface himself. The dog managed to swim back to shore.

It's often our instinct, as animal lovers, to attempt a rescue that is beyond our means, but you should never go into flood water for any reason without the proper safety equipment and training. Flood waters bring unpredictable and often raging undercurrents that make it impossible to navigate without safety equipment. Call for professional help (911), and follow their instructions. River levels and weather conditions change by the second during a storm and flash flood.

Remember that dogs are strong swimmers. Small dogs will likely stay above the swirling undercurrents, so stay out of the water and call to the dog. Stay calm and encourage the dog to swim toward you. Dogs also know how to float and tread water, so don't get excited if the dog appears to rest. Always keep in mind that you cannot help if you are in the water. The currents will be too strong.

A struggling dog may be able to grab a flotation device. Tie a strong rope around the float and toss it into the water ahead of the dog. Again, stay away from the edge of the water. Let the dog swim into the rope or grab the float with his front legs or mouth. Gently try to pull the dog in your direction. If the dog drops the rope or float, throw it again.

Take precautions by moving animals to high ground as soon as a Flash Flood Watch is issued. A watch means that a flood is a possibility. You may not have enough time to move your animals when the warning is issued.

The active weather patterns this year have caused emergency situations for both man and beasts. Severe droughts followed by heavy rains are causing flash flooding across Iowa and many other states. The best way you can help your livestock and pets is to have an emergency plan ready to implement at all times, and by staying out of the water when an emergency occurs.