Marriott Yacht’s Rescue of Dog From Ocean Nabs PETA Award

For Immediate Release:
August 7, 2024

Contact:
Maddy Bolonyi 202-483-7382

Fort Myers, Fla. –

A Compassionate Business Award and delicious vegan chocolates are on the way from PETA to Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa’s Sanibel Harbour Princess Yacht and its captain and crew for rescuing a dog named Ellie, who was seen swimming in the ocean for more than an hour off the coast of Fort Myers Beach on July 28. After passengers on board the boat spotted the dog paddling about 1.5 miles from the shore, the captain and crew knew they had to rescue her. The captain shut off the engine, and the crew pulled the dog on board when she swam up to the boat. After Ellie’s guardians later saw the news about her rescue on TV, they were reunited with her. Ellie and her family had been out for a boat ride earlier in the day when she disappeared as they were sailing underneath the Sanibel Causeway. Her guardians told news outlets that they had searched for her for hours until their boat nearly ran out of fuel.

“Thanks to the guests, captain, and crew of the Marriott yacht, this vulnerable dog was saved from a terrifying, dangerous predicament and reunited with her family,” says PETA President Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA encourages everyone to follow their example by acting swiftly whenever they see an animal in need.”

PETA reminds all dog guardians to keep dogs on a comfortable and secure harness and leash when they’re outside—particularly in potentially hazardous situations such as on a boat, where they should always wear a life vest—and not to leave them unattended. Dogs can tire easily while swimming and may drown. Flotation vests are especially important for dogs who are prone to seizures and other medical problems or who are new to boating.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow the group on X, Facebook, or Instagram.