How did the Nervi Rescue Society come into being and what is its mission?<\/strong><\/p>\n It is a branch of the National Lifeguard Society, an organization founded with the aim of ensuring safety at sea. Its primary goal is to train lifeguards and promote the culture of water rescue. In addition to technical training courses, it also offers training in first aid and marine emergency management. Within the Association, canine units represent a specific and relatively recent branch: the idea of using dogs for rescue operations was introduced in Italy in the 1980s, but has only recently begun to gain widespread acceptance.<\/p>\n A beach station manned by Stefano and his two dogs Lalla and Kim<\/p>\n What are the differences between a water rescue dog and a land rescue dog? <\/strong><\/p>\n The differences lie both in physical characteristics and in the specific aptitudes required by different operating environments. In the marine context, breeds with excellent swimming abilities, a strong cooperative instinct, good sociability, and an ideal weight of over 25 kilograms are preferred. Classic examples are the Newfoundland, Labrador, Golden Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, Portuguese Water Dog (C\u00e3o de \u00e1gua portugu\u00eas), and Leonberger, all selected for their natural aptitude for water.<\/p>\n For ground rescue, however, agile breeds such as Shepherd dogs (for example the Malinois or Border Collie) are preferred, as well as robust dogs such as the St. Bernard, traditionally used in avalanche operations, although in recent years, lighter dogs have also been used to facilitate movement over rubble or unstable surfaces.<\/p>\n In addition to physical characteristics, the dog's personality is fundamental: it must be docile, balanced and well-socialized, capable of remaining calm and interacting peacefully even in crowded environments like beaches.<\/p>\n Final phase of a dog recovery<\/p>\n At what age can you tell if a puppy is suited to water rescue work?<\/strong><\/p>\n Already between three and six months<\/strong> Initial basic assessments can be made. Training begins with obedience and socialization exercises, followed by observing the dog's reaction to water. For example, I have two dogs, and the older one loved the sea from the very beginning, while the other showed distrust and required a lot of work to overcome her fear and discover the pleasure of swimming.<\/p>\n From this it follows that, in theory, all dogs with the appropriate physical characteristics could be trained, but in practice not everyone proves suitable<\/strong>. Rescue requires a specific mental and character predisposition to deal with marine conditions and work as a team with humans. If a rescuer shows persistent discomfort or fails to develop the ability to cooperate in the water, it is important to respect their limits and direct them towards activities more suited to their inclinations.<\/p>\n Lalla in the water<\/p>\n What are the main stages of training?<\/strong><\/p>\n Training begins at three months (once the vaccination cycle is completed) with basic exercises, aimed at building good obedience and a solid relationship with the handler. We work on the basic commands \u2014 \u201csit\u201d, \u201cdown\u201d, \u201cstay\u201d, recall<\/strong>, etc. \u2014 which are essential for safety, but everything happens gradually and respectfully. In this initial phase, water is also introduced, which should be experienced as a positive element, a pleasant experience. We often talk about "\u201cbaptism of water<\/strong>\u201d, which can take place at the seaside or in the swimming pool, and serves to create a positive familiarity in the dog with the aquatic environment.<\/p>\n Going out to sea for a recovery<\/p>\n The actual training intensifies<\/strong> around one year of age<\/strong>, when the dog has completed its physical development. It is essential not to push the pace, especially for breeds prone to hip dysplasia (a hip disease that predominantly affects large and giant breeds), and for this reason, in the first few months, work on the shoreline, where physical exertion is greater, is avoided. Everything is designed to accompany the dog with balance, protecting its growth and enhancing its natural aptitudes. At this stage, the training becomes more technical and structured. Work is done on strengthening the dog's swimming abilities, developing bonding while swimming in tandem with the handler, and retrieving, which, while originally intended as a game, has a strong operational value. The dog learns to retrieve objects such as life jackets, ropes, oars, or other tools useful in emergency situations: for example, it can bring a rope to a surfer or a dinghy in difficulty to tow it to shore. Every object thus becomes a potential means of rescue.<\/p>\n How does sea rescue work? <\/strong><\/p>\n Contrary to popular belief the dog almost never comes into direct contact with the person in danger<\/strong>. In a panic situation, the person could cling to the animal in an attempt to save themselves, putting both in danger. The basic rule is that the actual rescue is carried out by the lifeguard<\/strong>, which has the task of securing the person while thethe dog acts as a support<\/strong>. It can in fact bring the rescue can <\/strong>(a rigid oval-shaped float), the rescue tube <\/strong>(a floating tube that helps support the rescued swimmer), a rope or a lifebuoy<\/strong> and tows the lifeguard (who is supporting the person in danger) toward shore. This makes the rescuer's work easier, and the intervention is quicker and more effective. The key, in any case, remains the same: safety for everyone.<\/p>\n Ring finger contribution to a person in danger<\/p>\n What happens if there are more people to rescue at the same time?<\/strong><\/p>\n Recovery is designed to always be one to one<\/strong>, but in emergency situations, it may be necessary to intervene with multiple people in danger at the same time. In these cases, where available, rescue equipment such as stand-up paddleboards or paddleboards, more suited to multiple rescue situations, is used. In their absence, it is important to quickly assess which of the people in danger is able to cooperate\u2014and therefore require only the dog, a life jacket, or a rescue can\u2014and which, instead, is in greater difficulty or panic and absolutely requires the lifeguard's intervention. Ideally, each beach should be manned by at least two lifeguards to deal with such scenarios, although, unfortunately, this isn't always the case.<\/p>\n Rescue operation by lifeguard Giuseppe Ottonello with his dog Otto and rescue can<\/p>\n Are there situations in which it is inadvisable to use a dog?<\/strong><\/p>\n The guiding principle is always safety<\/strong>It is essential to carefully evaluate the situation so as not to put the dog's life at risk.<\/p>\n A rough sea, for example: a one-meter wave, which we humans can handle, is like a real wall for him and could cause him great difficulties, especially when leaving the sea.<\/p>\n In the event of accidents at sea, such as sinking boats and the like, it is also necessary to consider the potential presence of toxic substances, fuel, and scattered dangerous objects (e.g., sheet metal, hooks, etc.) that could pose a threat to the animal.<\/p>\n Lalla after an operation in rough seas<\/p>\n Does a lifeguard have the right not to intervene? <\/strong><\/p>\n As a rescuer, you have an obligation to intervene, but if your action could jeopardize your safety, you must stop to avoid incompetence. In this case, you must contact the Coast Guard and 112 to send out, for example, a rescue helicopter, a patrol boat, a hydroambulance, or a specially equipped jet ski. Endangering another life makes no sense. And this also applies to your dog: if you see that he's not feeling well, that he's agitated, you leave him on shore.<\/p>\n Recovery of a person in danger equipped with a life jacket<\/p>\n How long does a lifeguard dog's career last?<\/strong><\/p>\n Officially, work can begin on the field starting from one year of age<\/strong>, once physical growth is complete. The career can continue up to 10 years old<\/strong>, age limit established for safety reasons. After 10 years, the dog can continue working only with specific and updated veterinary certification.<\/p>\n How is an operational shift structured?<\/strong><\/p>\n The ideal shift is four continuous hours<\/strong>, or eight hours with at least two hours of break<\/strong>. Although they are strong and resistant dogs, the heat, inactivity and waiting under the sun put a strain on them too. When the dog is working it is essential that it has adequate rest, shade, hydration and constant monitoring<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Kim in operational position on the beach<\/p>\n Who issues official patents?<\/strong><\/p>\n There are several schools and associations authorized to issue dog rescue certifications. Some of the most recognized are: SNS<\/strong> (National Lifesaving Society), the SICS<\/strong> (Italian School of Rescue Dogs), the\u2019Italian Newfoundland Dog Association, the Water Dogs Association (non-profit organization) <\/strong>and various associations of the Civil Protection<\/strong><\/p>\n However, it must be said that There is no specific legislation at national level for the recognition of certificates<\/strong>. There are many schools and organizations, but not all are recognized by the Port Authority. Some qualifications, for example, can only be used in voluntary work and during official Civil Protection interventions, but not for paid professional employment<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Can dogs sense danger before humans?<\/strong><\/p>\n Dogs are extremely sensitive, receptive, and intuitive animals, and some of them develop such a strong instinct for control that they spend their time scanning the beach with their eyes, as if they were silently patrolling. It's something that's striking and moving.<\/p>\n Lalla and Chopin with training instruments<\/p>\n What are the main problems or prejudices you face?<\/strong><\/p>\n One of the main obstacles is the lack of knowledge and information<\/strong>Many people don't really know what a rescue dog is, how it works, what training it requires, and what its true value is. It's often perceived as just another "beach animal" or a "showpiece.". Furthermore, there are those who are afraid of dogs or fear hygiene problems<\/strong>. This is why we are always very careful: our dogs are always on a leash during checks or with the lifeguard at the station and do not wander among people. We also carry with us everything needed for picking up waste and disinfecting. Respect for people and places is an integral part of our work.<\/p>\n Lalla tows Stefano and the life jacket to the dangerous place<\/p>\n How can these mistrusts be countered?<\/strong><\/p>\n The tools at our disposal are education and example<\/strong>. We're increasingly bringing projects to schools to teach children what it really means to work with a dog and the respect it deserves. When you see a dog working in the water, alongside its handler, you understand the commitment, dedication, skill, and a deep bond behind it. And that's when, often, even the skeptic is proven wrong.<\/p>\n Maia observing the sea<\/p>\n How important is the emotional bond between dog and handler? <\/strong><\/p>\n The emotional component is fundamental<\/strong>. A dog isn't a machine: it's a sentient being, much more sensitive than we are. The relationship that builds over time is the foundation of all the work: we live together, we know each other deeply, we grow as a team<\/strong>. Every activity must take into account not only what the handler desires, but also what the animal is drawn to and what gives it joy.<\/p>\n If you let him show you who he is and what he loves to do, you gain a deep connection. In the water, for example, a glance or a movement between me and my dogs is enough, and they already know what to do.<\/p>\n This bond only works if the handler is focused, prepared, and clear-headed, because the dog senses everything: whether you're agitated, tired, or distracted. Some react by taking the initiative, while others freeze. The dog's well-being and the success of the rescue depend on this.<\/p>\n Stefano Poggi and his Lalla<\/p>\n Looking to the future, what are the projects or goals closest to your heart as an association?<\/strong><\/p>\n We have several projects, and one of the most important concerns the spread of canine culture<\/strong>, especially among the younger ones. Bring education in respect and understanding of the dog<\/strong> It's essential in schools: it helps raise more aware citizens, capable of recognizing the value of this wonderful animal for what it truly is: a living being with its own needs, characteristics, and potential, not a toy or a human surrogate.<\/p>\n On the organizational front, we're currently awaiting official guidance from the Port Authority, which has introduced a new directive that's created quite a few changes. The companies responsible for training lifeguards are at a standstill, waiting to figure out how to reorganize. establish other operational units and new nuclei<\/strong>. Growth plans are there, but they depend strictly on how this situation evolves.<\/p>\n Are there any technological innovations that could impact the way you operate?<\/strong><\/p>\n In water rescue, technologies are rapidly evolving: autonomous or remote-controlled devices such as hydrojets and motorized floating rings<\/strong> capable of towing a person in danger towards shore are becoming increasingly used tools and promise to effectively support lifeguards in the near future.<\/p>\n In ground rescue operations, such as in the mountains or among rubble, radar, drones, sensors and geolocators concretely support the dogs' work<\/strong>, accelerating research and improving the effectiveness of interventions, but without replacing their fundamental role.<\/p>\n In a world that often forgets the language of the heart, animals continue to speak to us with silent gestures, offering loyalty, strength, and salvation. Let us learn to respect them not only for who they are, but for everything they do for us, asking nothing in return except our affection and the respect they deserve.<\/p>\n Lalla at the end of a rescue operation<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.unitedstatesofitaly.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lalla-e-kim-1-1024x674.jpg\")
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<\/strong>Stefano Poggi and his colleague Nicola Cetrangolo in the operational station with Lalla and Kim<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.unitedstatesofitaly.it\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/lalla-5-768x1024.jpeg\")
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