A dog has been rescued after getting into difficulty at Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
The volunteer lifeboat crew was requested by the Irish Coast Guard to assist in the rescue of Charlie, a three-year old Cocker Spaniel on Saturday.
He had wandered down the slippy harbour wall steps and tumbled into the sea.
The crew arrived within six minutes to rescue Charlie and re-unite him with his owner.
The coast guard is reminding dog owners to keep their pets on a lead to ensure the safety of the animal and the owner.
"Adventurous"
A statement from the RNLI SAYS: "Dun Laoghaire RNLI rescued an adventurous Cocker Spaniel from a rocky ledge inside the west wall at Dun Laoghaire harbour last Saturday, 20 January.
"The volunteer lifeboat crew were requested by the Irish Coast Guard to assist in the rescue of Charlie, a three-year old chocolate brown Cocker Spaniel, who wandered down the dangerously slippy harbour wall steps and tumbled into the sea to begin his unplanned dip while out with his walker. The Harbour Police had seen the event unfold and called the Coast Guard.
"The crew were alerted shortly after 2.30pm, and Lifeboat ‘Joval’, helmed by Andrew Sykes, with volunteer crew members Laura Jackson and James Traynor onboard, made best speed arriving on scene within six minutes of the call.
"While it was calm with excellent visibility, the low sea temperature presented it’s own difficulties for any animal in the water."
Volunteer Helm Andrew Sykes says: "Charlie was shaken and distressed by his ordeal but quickly comforted by Laura, and didn’t require medical treatment when brought ashore and into the care of his walker.
"We were delighted to see the dog safe and well and reunite Charlie with his walker. We would remind anyone walking their dog near the water’s edge to keep them on a lead to ensure not only the safety of the animal, but the owner as well.
"Despite the stormy weather we’re experiencing on the coast and inland waterways, we know people will want to get out from time to time. We would encourage those on or near any water to attend to their personal safety by carefully planning their intended activity.
"Check weather and tide times before venturing out and always carry a means of calling for help should you need to use it. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."
