MIAMI (WSVN) — Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Ocean Rescue Lifeguards are now the first beach patrol unit in the state of Florida to be American Red Cross trained in Pet CPR.
According to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, the move to certify Ocean Rescue Lifeguards in pet CPR was inspired by a tragic incident in Haulover Beach, last year. "One day, a dog started drowning and was rescued by Miami-Dade Fire Ocean Rescue Personnel, but the dog went into cardiac arrest, and unfortunately, the dog didn’t survive," said Ocean Rescue Captain Morizot. "The lifeguards had never received a formal training on dog CPR and acted to the best of their knowledge by applying the concepts of human resuscitation."
After the tragic incident, officials made an urgent decision to enhance the skills of all Miami-Dade Fire Rescue’s Ocean Rescue Lifeguards and train all personnel in Pet CPR.
"With Haulover Beach and Park now including a dog swim area, our Miami-Dade Fire Rescue – Ocean Rescue Lifeguards continue to excel while furthering skills and abilities to meet the needs of all in Miami-Dade County. This includes humans and canines," said Commissioner Sally Heyman. "They are truly a number one department."
Since the accident, Haulover Park has opened up a "Dogs on Dunes" program that allows dogs to play on the beach from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Now, pet owners in Miami can play with their animals near oceans and pools knowing they’ll be protected should an incident occur.