Why Bude RNLI says never go in after your dog

If your dog would follow you anywhere, the volunteers at Bude’s lifeboat station have a favour to ask. Keep them back from the edge. And if things do go wrong, stay on dry land yourself.

Bude RNLI has shared a handful of safety tips for anyone walking a four-legged friend along the coast around Bude.

The crew describe the coastline as one of the best places in the UK for a dog walk. But dramatic cliffs, hidden drops, shifting tides and Atlantic swells can catch anyone out, and as the station put it, because our dogs would follow us anywhere, it’s up to us to keep them safe.

Four tips to get you both home safely

Lead the way

Keep dogs on a lead near cliff edges and steep drop-offs, and around fast-flowing river mouths or estuaries.

Check the tides

Bude’s beaches and coves have incredible stretches of sand, but incoming tides move fast. Check local tide times before you head out so you don’t get cut off.

Skip the stick

Throwing a stick into the sea is tempting. But cold water shock can affect dogs just as it affects people, even strong swimmers. The RNLI suggests playing fetch away from the water’s edge instead.

Stay connected

Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and let someone know where you’re going.

What to do if your dog gets into trouble

This is the bit the crew admit is hard. Never go into the water or soft mud, or try to climb down a cliff, after your pet.

Move to a safe spot, call their name or use a toy. In most cases, the RNLI says, dogs will manage to get back out on their own.

If they can’t, or if you’re worried, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Leave it to the people with the kit

Volunteer lifeboat crews and local Coastguard rescue teams have the training and equipment to deal with cliff and water incidents safely.

As much as we love them, the station says, your dog is far more valuable to you safe on the shore.

“Enjoy the fresh Cornish air and look after each other out there!”

📷Bude RNLI crew members Rhys and Murphy at the lifeboat station. Credit: Bude RNLI