Photo Essay: Quattro zampe

Year ago I was shooting on Genoa Boat Show always being held in early October.

Crossing the endless rows of yachts on the water and the coast I suddenly had seen a crowd of spectators in the far harbor's corner. And yes, there were some people in wet suits handling newfoundland dogs equipped for the rescue job.

Honestly, I'm crazy loving newfs. One of them is living in our family for more than 10 years and, hope, he is happy enough.

And I'm proud to realize the fact these dogs were the best friends of Lord Byron and President Kennedy. Famous painter Edwin Lendsir gave his name of the black-and-white colored newfoundland dogs, depicting them on his canvases many times, because they were very popular among English aristocrats. I've studied many books and articles on the theme.

But that sunny day I had received the opportunity to see well trained dogs at work and showing their best for the first time in my whole life. To say it were breathtaking moments and unforgettable experience means to say nothing.

Lots of people on the tribunes and journalists with photo and TV cameras had said much to me about the universal interest in that annual show.

I'm not speaking Italian at all. Pity. I will never know the name of foundation or club organizing such event in order to say thanks. Neither I will never know names of all that not so young men and women working hard with their pets pro bono publico.

I had decided not to interfere into the process trying to ask questions on my poor English. I took pictures instead. Here they are.

And here are the comments to them.

Main photo:

Give them freedom to move and pleasure to swim. Who knows, probably one day your pet will save not only your own life...

1

Black-and-white newfoundland dogs often are called "lendsirs" in memory of Britain painter of XIX century

2

Italian sun may be too hot for this northern breed even in October. Newfoundlands can suffer from thermal shock as we people do. So before the training men give them enough cool water in order to make fur and skin moistened thoroughly

4

Now the dogs will demonstrate their skills to rescue victims of sea with or without the man's help

5

Man and dog are working together

6

Red thing with cord is being attached to the harness on dog's spin, so the rescued person can be transported much more easier - if he (or she) have strength enough to catch it. If no or in case the victim is unconscious, the dog will carefully take human leg or hand with teeth. It's understandable without any explanation

7

The enthusiasm of grown-ups involves the youngest pets in the process of training. They are the most socialized creation I have ever seen. Could you imagine two dozens of any other dogs peacefully sitting or laying down side by side for many hours without any quarrel?

8

The only photo where we can see the logo of the participants on woman's cloth

9

Water dramatically increases the weight, so the tired puppy needs master's assistance to return on the ground after completing the task

10

The kiss seems to be the best final for the story

P.S. If you have something to add, it will be much appreciated.

Moreover, I know about the existence of Academy for volunteers with their newfoundland dogs in the USA, rescuing many lives in catastrophes, carrying medicines needed, jumping together from helicopters or even airplanes with parachute and so on and so forth.

Could anybody tell us a few words about it? Thank you in advance.