New Footage Shows Chilling Moment Rescuer Glides Across Ice To Save Stuck Golden Retriever

Jan 23, 2019

Although many people dread the coming of winter because of the ensuing cold, it is a beautiful time of year. After a gentle snowfall, the trees and hills are frosted with a coat of snow, and the water glistens with ice. Despite this, people often tend to overlook these marvels during their harrowing morning commutes.

Not only does winter pose some extra challenges for road conditions, but it can also cause other hidden hazards. This is especially the case when it comes to lakes and ponds. Although the layer of ice can be somewhat pretty and tempting, many people end up falling victim to the risk of falling to their demise through the ice. 

A golden retriever recently found itself in this predicament when it decided to venture out onto an ice-covered stream. The unfortunate event occurred in Blue Ash, Ohio, a suburb of Cincinnati, near the Hunter’s Creek Apartment complex. Luckily for the dog, local officials were on the scene quickly to save the animal’s life. The Blue Ash Fire Department was alerted to the emergency, and they arrived within minutes to rescue the dog. 

The harrowing event was captured on video and shared on social media. The video depicts the actions of a heroic man clad in a yellow life jacket braving the cold ice and freezing water to save the helpless golden retriever. The dog’s brown head can be seen moving in the freezing water and dangerous ice as the official swims toward him. The dog struggled to keep her head above water and reached her paws out toward the ice. The newly fallen snow also complicated matters, so it was fortunate that the fire department arrived so quickly.

The newly fallen snow also complicated matters, so it was fortunate that the fire department arrived so quickly. When the rescuer reached the dog, he placed a red inner tube around her neck. Other officials pulled the two with a tethered rope that was attached to the rescuer’s boot. The dog was then taken to her home and dried off by the rescue crew in a comfortable warm living room.

The dog’s owner explained to the crew that the dog was very excited about the snowfall and dashed out directly to the frozen pond. The Blue Ash Fire Department shared the heart-warming story on Twitter later that day. The town authorities extended their gratitude to the brave rescuers, saying that the dog was lucky and is now recovering well at her home.

The department described the incident as an important reminder for people to keep their pets away from frozen bodies of water during hazardous winter conditions. The rescuers expressed their feelings about taking part in the operation. They said that they were happy to be able to help the dog and get her back to her owner. They noted that their facilities were lucky to have the proper equipment to carry out a rescue of this nature.

With the right training, helmets, tethers and other gear, the rescue was carried out effectively. The officials also noted that snowy conditions can make this type of accident more likely because it conceals areas that could be potentially dangerous. Even when ice appears thick and safe, this can be deceiving. If you fall prey to an accidental fall into an icy stream or lake, there are a few steps one can take to survive.

The primary risk is hypothermia, so you should breathe evenly and remain calm. Grip a piece of ice and kick with your legs to escape from the freezing water out onto the ice.

Of course, the best advice is to appreciate a frozen body of water from a distance rather than risk your life the way this lucky dog did. If this story warmed your heart, don't forget to send the link to your friends or share your thoughts in the comments below.