Ariel is a five-year old Pit Bull mix who has shown her strength by refusing to be captured, even when it required swimming in the sea. Ariel’s journey to safety was made possible by the dedicated animal rescuers in Alameda and the caring employees at Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter.
Emily Crum was a caring animal control officer from Alameda who first heard about this medium-sized, white and tan dog in early June. It became apparent that it would be difficult to catch Ariel. To do so, the team had to contact FAAS as well as coordinate with community members in order for them find her. Ariel’s decision to swim towards San Francisco Bay at Seaplane Lagoon changed the course of the search.
Crum explained that for 20 minutes we stood by the shore and watched her swim. It felt as if every second was an eternity. The currents were strong.
She bravely navigated past sail drones docked as a small crowd looked on. Ariel, exhausted and fortunately alive, made it miraculously to the rocks by Urban Cellars. Rescuers were aware that if they approached her right away, she could retreat back into the sea.
Ariel was patiently watched by rescuers for two hours from a distance. This allowed her to exhaust herself. After Ariel was safely taken into their care, volunteers pampered her and helped her recover.
Ariel was affectionately given the name by the staff due to her adventures in the sea. Ariel is gaining trust in people despite the difficulties she initially faced.
“Everyone loves her.” “Yesterday, a volunteer who had participated in the search and rescue arrived. Ariel ran over and waggled her tail so much that it made her entire body move. Ariel sat in Ariel’s lap, embraced her and covered her with kisses.
Ariel has now been adopted and is looking for her forever family. Lipp from FAAS indicated that a calm, loving environment would be ideal — a place where she can be treasured as a sweet and snuggly companion, and where her new family will happily accept plenty of kisses and unwavering doggy love. Consider contacting Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter if you’re interested in adopting a dog and can provide Ariel with a loving environment.