A report that a dog was in trouble off the West Cumbrian coast was likely to have been a seal.
Whitehaven and Maryport Coastguard rescue teams were called out yesterday, Sunday June 30, at around 8.20pm to Harrington, near Workington.
A 999 call had been made, saying there was a dog in the water and its owner unaccounted for.
Workington RNLI was also requested to launch.
Whitehaven Coastguard Rescue Team said: “We arrived on scene and immediately undertook a shoreline search, whilst our officer in charge liaised with the first informant. We were soon joined by Workington lifeboat, with both their boats conducting searches afloat.
“We were informed by our first informant that a member of public had initially entered the water to try to rescue what they believed to be a dog out in the water, but they had since returned ashore and left the area.
“In the reported area we found a small group of seals, along with reports from members of the public who had been observing the seals. It is believed this is what was first thought to be the reported dog.
“With search areas concluded and nothing untoward found, all assets were stood down pending any further information.
“As always, our thanks to the first informant for raising the alarm without delay, which allowed this to be resolved quickly. Had it been a dog or person in the water, then every second counts.”
