This story is nothing short of a miracle. As reported by People magazine, the loud bangs of fireworks during the US Independence Day celebrations panicked a little dog, causing her to bolt.
A sharp-eyed onlooker spotted the poor animal in San Francisco Bay, near Menlo Park, California. Rescue teams were alerted immediately and launched a major operation to find her, as she was being circled by hostile seagulls.
A dramatic rescue operation
Using a reconnaissance drone, firefighters spotted the dog about half a mile from the shore.
A rescue boat was quickly launched to pull her out of the water. Once they got her safely on board, the firefighters immediately wrapped her in one of their protective jackets to warm her up.
An emotional reunion
Handed over to the local SPCA, the little dog was thoroughly checked over by vets. Apart from a minor injury on her cheek caused by pecking seagulls, and being completely exhausted, she was in good health. Thanks to her microchip, the SPCA was able to contact her owner straight away.
For Mary Juarez, the phone call from the SPCA put an end to a two-week nightmare.
"These past two weeks have been pure agony, not knowing what had happened to her. My heart started beating so fast when the SPCA called. I can't thank the rescue team enough for bringing my dog back to me."