LEHIGHTON, Pa. (WOLF) — Scorching temperatures have begun to drive many to beaches across the Commonwealth.
In Lehighton, Beltzville State Park can reach capacity right after opening. So, with no lifeguards on duty, how does the Park keep everyone safe?
That’s where the American Academy of Canine Water Rescue comes in.
We are the first organization in the United States that actively use them. Overseas where we trained and learned in Italy, there are over 400 canine lifeguard teams,” says George Abraham.
President George Abraham and his dog, Kelby, now patrol the lake portion of the State Park on weekends.
And this pooch immediately jumped into action at the unofficial start of summer.
“We were out on the boat when a jet ski turned over with two people on it, one not being able to swim. We deployed Kelby and me and we were able to bring that person back to the boat,” Abraham explained.
Kelby, an 18-month-old Landseer Newfoundland, excelled in water rescue training despite being younger than the typical trained dogs.
Not only did she save the day on Memorial Day, but also just this past weekend!
“There’s a lot of jet ski and boat traffic here and we had a jet ski turnover this past Saturday. It was a very similar situation. Both people were able to swim, we deployed two dogs and were able to bring both back to our boat,” Abraham said.
Ben Monk, the park manager, is happy to have a partnership with the organization, which helps fill staffing gaps.
“Who doesn’t like to see a dog running around in goggles? We have rangers and resource rangers who are there to provide information and first aid but to have this whole other layer of protection is a big force multiplier,” Monk explained.
Monk is hopeful other State Parks with water components follow their lead to ensure safety for parkgoers.
“To see an added layer of safety in the water expand across the state why not!” Monk exclaimed.
In addition to her work here on the lake, Kelby can also deploy from a helicopter into the water, she’ll be doing it in Florida this coming September.
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