A frightened pet dog refused to board the boat and had to be carried… only for her owner to fall into the water.

The two-year-old Golden Retriever Lexa was scared to cross the makeshift bridge as she and six other pooches travelled with family to an island in Northern Samar province, the Philippines, on January 19.

Lexa had to be calmed down, and so she embarked last together with caretaker Echo - who tripped off the plank when the vessel was hit by waves.

Footage shows Lexa in the arms of Echo as the pair tried to join the others in the small ferry before the man lost his balance and plunged to the shallow part of the shore.

Echo's wife Gelyn Judloman said: 'Our dog, who had never been on a boat before, refused to get onboard during a family beach vacation.

'Echo bravely carried our beloved Golden Retriever dog amidst the wavy water conditions. However, fate took an unexpected turn as they accidentally lost their balance and took a tumble. But fear not. Our furry friend remained unharmed and safe throughout the incident.'