This dog's a strong swimmer

Many people may fantasize about being stranded on a deserted island.

But no one knows why a 2-year-old female Labrador mix named Sadie went for a dip in Nippersink Lake near Fox Lake shortly after noon Monday and swam out roughly 100 feet to a small uninhabited island.

The dog barked for nearly two hours before area residents called the Lake County Sheriff's Office. The sheriff's marine unit went out with animal control to capture Sadie, but when officials landed on the island and began chasing the dog, she jumped back into the water and swam ashore.

A frightened Sadie was later found in a fenced-in yard in Spring Grove.

"After giving her some treats she became my friend," said Courtney Randle, Lake County Animal Control warden. "She's a really sweet dog."

Sadie has been put up for adoption at Orphans of the Storm in Riverwoods since her owner relinquished her. Anyone interested in adopting her should call (847) 945-0235.

The owner, who has been cited before for letting Sadie loose, will be billed by animal control for time spent chasing and transporting the dog, and impoundment, officials said.