San Diego, December 9, 2025
In a dramatic rescue, San Diego lifeguards saved Sadie, a black Labrador retriever-mix, after she was swept nearly a mile offshore by a rip current at Ocean Beach. The quick thinking of her owners, who tracked her via an Airtag, and the prompt action of the lifeguard team ensured Sadie’s safe return. Despite suffering minor paw injuries, she has since recovered and been reunited with her grateful owners.
San Diego, CA
Lifeguards Rescue Dog Swept Out to Sea by Rip Current
San Diego lifeguards successfully rescued Sadie, a black Labrador retriever-mix, after she was swept nearly a mile offshore by a rip current at Ocean Beach.
Sadie had escaped from her owners’ temporary residence during a football game on November 23, 2025. Using an Airtag on her collar, her owners, Alexis Barcellos and Brandon Valdez, tracked her to the beach, where surfers reported seeing her caught in a rip current near the jetty.
A U.S. Coast Guard boat and lifeguards initiated a search. Lifeguards Garrett Smerdon and Jack Alldredge conducted an extensive search on personal watercraft. After more than an hour, they spotted Sadie approximately half a mile offshore near South Mission Beach. She was transferred to a surf boat and reunited with her relieved owners.
Sadie sustained minor injuries to her paws from attempting to climb the jetty but has since recovered. Her owners expressed profound gratitude for her safe return.
Background on Rip Currents and Ocean Safety
Rip currents are powerful, fast-moving water channels that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore. They are a common hazard at many beaches, including those in San Diego. Lifeguards and beachgoers are advised to exercise caution and be aware of local conditions to ensure safety in the water.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ocean Beach, San Diego, CA |
| Dog’s Name | Sadie |
| Breed | Black Labrador retriever-mix |
| Incident Date | November 23, 2025 |
| Rescue Date | November 23, 2025 |
| Rescue Team | San Diego lifeguards and U.S. Coast Guard |
| Distance Offshore | Approximately 0.5 miles |
| Owner’s Names | Alexis Barcellos and Brandon Valdez |
| Injuries Sustained | Minor paw injuries from climbing the jetty |
| Current Status | Recovered and reunited with owners |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to Sadie, the dog rescued in San Diego?
Sadie, a black Labrador retriever-mix, was swept nearly a mile offshore by a rip current at Ocean Beach in San Diego. Lifeguards rescued her after an extensive search, and she was reunited with her owners.
How did Sadie’s owners track her location?
Sadie’s owners used an Airtag attached to her collar to track her location after she escaped from their temporary residence during a football game.
What are rip currents, and why are they dangerous?
Rip currents are powerful, fast-moving water channels that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore. They are a common hazard at many beaches, including those in San Diego. Lifeguards and beachgoers are advised to exercise caution and be aware of local conditions to ensure safety in the water.
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