Loyal dog tried to save drowning owner

The body of an Oakville woman has been found in Lake Ontario, apparently being pulled to shore in a rescue attempt by her golden retriever.

The 66-year-old woman was spotted by two canoeists near the foot of Birch Hill Lane, in Oakville, Wednesday afternoon. Halton Regional Police officers and marine units responded and rushed the woman to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Officers say it appears the woman was out walking her dog along the shoreline when she slipped on a rock and fell in.

The victim’s dog stayed with her after the accident, holding onto her clothes with its teeth and apparently trying to pull her ashore, police say.

"The dog was treading water when the canoeists came along," Det. Sgt. Kevin Maher said.

"With retrievers, they are a very loyal breed."

The dog was uninjured and was placed in the care of the Humane Society. It has since been returned to the victim’s family.

A post-mortem is being held Thursday.