Small Dog Rescued After Enduring Long Swim in San Francisco Bay, Returns to Family
July 24, 2026
A daring rescue operation involving various emergency services brought a joyful reunion for a missing canine, Prieta, after she swam several miles into the San Francisco Bay.
Menlo Park Fire Protection District
The tiny dog, who disappeared on July 4th, became the focus of a multi-agency rescue mission when a passerby reported her continuous swim into the bay.
Responding quickly, the Menlo Park Fire Protection District and East Palo Alto Police Department coordinated their efforts through air and sea to locate Prieta.
Using binoculars and a drone equipped with GPS, rescuers identified Prieta’s position in the water, allowing a rescue boat to reach her efficiently.
The East Palo Alto Police Department later released footage of the operation, humorously noting that it was reminiscent of an action movie and joking, “the cat in the tree had the day off.”
While Prieta faced challenges from a “aerial assault by an organized gang of seagulls” as reported by officers, her rescue was ultimately a success.
Firefighter Tyler adeptly retrieved Prieta during the rescue, securing her on the boat safe from harm.
Following a health check, animal control took over Prieta’s care before she was returned to her eagerly waiting family through the local SPCA.
The heartwarming narrative was enriched during a Menlo Park Fire Protection District board meeting where Prieta and her owner expressed gratitude to the rescuers present, including Firefighters Seth, Dan, Carlos, Alex, and drone operator Tom.
Menlo Park Fire Protection District
The owner, moved to tears, acknowledged the team’s efforts, sharing that Prieta’s disappearance came after personal losses, making her rescue all the more meaningful.
For the responders, witnessing the emotional reunion served as the most rewarding outcome, perfectly captured by the fire district’s sentiment: “Happy ending for all.”
