Nala, now widely recognized, is a 4-year-old long-haired German Shepherd. She was adopted by Mr. Papageorgiou during the COVID-19 lockdown. Born in Germany to champion parents renowned for their high value and success in morphology competitions, Nala came from a highly sought-after litter with a two-year waiting list. Puppies from this litter were carefully selected and sent to homes in various countries, meeting strict criteria. Her journey to Greece was particularly challenging due to the travel restrictions in place at the time.

From a young age, Nala showed fearless determination and focus. In November, during one of her first walks in Greece, she spotted two seagulls and jumped after them, unaware of the rocks and sea below. She suddenly found herself in the water, a surprise for her owner, as Nala had no prior experience with the sea, having been born in Germany.

Mr. Papageorgiou began Nala’s training at 4 months old, starting with Basic Obedience, Socialization, Competitive Obedience, and Protection Duties. He, too, was trained alongside Nala, as it’s essential for the handler to first learn how to properly guide their pet.

Training in Italy

At two years old, Nala traveled to Italy to attend the only dog rescue training school, the SICS (Scuola Italiana Cani Salvataggio), based in Milan. Founded in 1989 by Ferruccio Pilenga, SICS has trained over 400 rescue dogs, with Nala being the only one from Greece to complete the rescue and lifeguarding course. Mr. Pilenga, now a trainer of trainers, shares his expertise globally, working with rescuers from countries like the Czech Republic, France, Switzerland, Germany, and currently, the USA. Other breeds ideal for water rescue include Newfoundland dogs and Labradors.

Nala and her handler operate as a unit, a concept taught at the Italian school. This dynamic was evident in the Kamena Vourla rescue and during her training sessions in Vouliagmeni. As soon as Mr. Papageorgiou dives into the water, Nala immediately understands that her duty begins. It takes only 10 seconds for her handler to equip her with her specialized rescue vest, worth €500, which is essential for her work. The vest features handles for the rescuer to hold onto and pockets for storing rescue equipment. It also has a ring capable of supporting up to a ton of weight, allowing Nala to be tethered to a helicopter and deployed into the sea to reach a victim.

Nala is trained to perform rescues from land, boats, jet skis, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), towing the latter three using her mouth—just as she does with people she rescues from the water. A crucial part of her training is to avoid drinking seawater or biting the victims. Instead, she carefully locks them in her jaw without causing injury.

Nala’s Daily Routine

Nala trains once a week for 40 to 60 minutes, with varying intensity to ensure she views the sessions as a game, preventing fatigue or boredom. Mr. Papageorgiou records the sessions and sends the videos to trainers in Italy for feedback and guidance. This long-distance coaching is necessary due to the demanding nature of the training, especially since a dog like Nala must travel to Milan by ferry and then by car.

At the beach, reactions to Nala’s presence vary. Some beachgoers feel uncomfortable around such a large animal or worry she’ll dirty the water. However, after witnessing Nala’s rescue of the 77-year-old man, they were impressed and grateful.

The Diet of a Lifeguard Dog

Nala’s active lifestyle and specialized missions require a tailored diet. She eats a combination of kibble, fruit, and eggs, along with vitamins, amino acids, and electrolytes after each workout—much like human athletes. Twice a week, she consumes raw minced meat for pure protein. All dietary decisions are made with the guidance of a veterinarian. Nala’s favorite treat? Watermelon, though always in small portions.

How Important is Nala’s Role in Greece?

The answer is simple: very important! Annually, 245,000 people die from drowning, with 340 incidents occurring in Greece alone. Our country ranks high in both European and global drowning statistics, underscoring the need for human and canine lifeguards.

Nala’s role isn’t limited to lifeguarding. In the summer, she helps children and adults become comfortable in the water, while in the winter, she provides therapeutic support in special schools, assisting children with learning disabilities and hospital patients battling cancer. Mr. Papageorgiou is currently in discussions with the Asklipieio Voulas Hospital to establish a more permanent role for Nala in their pediatric psychiatry unit.

Special thanks to Lolos Ski Center, Poseidonos Avenue 4, Vouliagmeni, for their hospitality.