Dog Lost At Sea With Man Adopted By Crew Member Who Helped Rescue Them

Timothy Shaddock admires Bella’s courage more than his own,” remarked the Australian sailor, reflecting on their harrowing journey.

Lost at sea for months with his faithful companion, Shaddock revealed that a compassionate crew member involved in their rescue had decided to give Bella a permanent home.

Last week marked the end of Tim Shaddock and Bella’s ordeal, as they were finally rescued after embarking on a daunting 3,000-mile sailing expedition from Le Paz, Mexico, destined for French Polynesia back in April.

Several weeks following their departure, their catamaran suffered damage from a storm, leaving Shaddock without functioning electronic devices, rendering him unable to seek assistance, according to a report by 9News in Australia.

In an interview with the outlet, Shaddock disclosed that he resorted to utilizing his fishing equipment to procure raw sustenance, while also collecting rainwater for hydration as he and Bella awaited rescue. It wasn’t until three months later that a helicopter, part of the accompanying crew of the tuna trawler Maria Delia, finally spotted Shaddock’s vessel off the coast of Mexico.

At a press briefing held in Manzanillo, Mexico, on Tuesday, the sailor disclosed that a fellow crew member aboard their vessel has decided to take in Bella, whom he praised as “remarkable” and “unique.”

“Bella crossed paths with me right here in Mexico. She’s truly Mexican,” he remarked. “She embodies the essence of this region, and she refused to part ways with me. Despite my attempts to rehome her on three separate occasions, she persistently accompanied me back to the sea. Undoubtedly, she possesses far more courage than I do.”

According to reports from both the Associated Press and The New York Post, Fisherman Genaro Rosales received Bella on the condition that he pledged to provide her with care and attention.

As detailed by the news agency, Bella remained steadfastly by Rosales’ side until Shaddock departed on Tuesday.

Mike Tipton, a physiology professor at the extreme environment laboratory of the University of Portsmouth, shared with Sky News that Bella might have played a pivotal role in Rosales’ survival, emphasizing her potential impact.

Tipton expressed to the outlet the importance of companionship, stating, “He had companionship.” Tipton emphasized the significance of having adequate food and water supplies for survival. He noted, “Once you’ve got enough food and water, then I think the dog has an advantage.” According to Tipton, survival hinges on continually collecting water, securing occasional food, and engaging in activities that foster positivity.

Shaddock, expressing his doubts about his own survival, admitted, “I didn’t think” he would make it. However, as of Tuesday, Shaddock revealed his intention to return to Australia soon to reunite with friends and family.

Shaddock expressed his fondness for water but clarified that he currently harbors no intentions of embarking on a sailing journey.

“While my love for water remains unwavering, the prospect of sailing across the ocean again isn’t on my agenda. Nature has a special place in my heart,” he explained.