SAN DIEGO, CA — In a remarkable act of instinct and loyalty, a dog chased off a shark and helped save a surfer’s life at Coronado Beach Sunday afternoon, witnesses say.
The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m., when 28-year-old surfer Lucas Rivera was paddling beyond the break zone near North Island. According to bystanders, Rivera had just caught a wave when a large shark fin appeared 30 feet away.
“I saw him turn white,” said beachgoer Megan Lewis, who was watching from the sand with her two labradoodles. “It was like something out of a movie.”
As the shark approached, one of Lewis’s dogs — a tenacious Australian Shepherd named Scout — bolted from the shoreline into the shallow surf. Multiple witnesses report that Scout charged directly toward the water and barked aggressively at the predator.
“I thought, ‘What is that dog doing?’” Lewis said. “But then the shark veered off, almost like it was startled.”
Rivera, who sustained only minor cuts and scrapes from his board, credited Scout with potentially saving his life.
“I honestly don’t know what would’ve happened if that dog hadn’t stepped in,” Rivera told reporters. “I felt the water change direction, and next thing I know I’m paddling back in and that dog’s right there with me.”
Lifeguards from the City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department confirmed they responded to the scene and treated Rivera for superficial injuries before releasing him. They also said there have been increased shark sightings in recent weeks but reiterated that attacks remain rare.
“We love hearing about heroic animals,” said Captain Andrea Martinez. “That said, we urge anyone entering the ocean to stay cautious and heed our safety flags and advisories.”
Scout has become an overnight local celebrity, with dozens of visitors stopping by Lewis’s beach umbrella Monday to meet the canine companion. A GoFundMe page has already been created to cover “dog treats and surfboard wax,” according to the organizer.
Rivera, who plans to return to the water as soon as he’s healed, said he’s considering documenting the experience in a short film.
“Scout’s not just a good boy,” Rivera laughed. “He’s a very good boy.”
