A heartwarming dog rescued from a frozen lake incident in the United States is going viral, showing firefighters bravely saving a pet on New Year’s Day.
The incident took place in Rhode Island, where a five-year-old Golden Retriever named Phoenix accidentally fell into a frozen lake while out on a walk with his owner. What began as a routine morning walk quickly turned into a frightening situation when the dog slipped through thin ice and plunged into the freezing water below.
Phoenix, who was walking with his owner close to Little Maschaug Pond in Westerly on January 1, at about 9.00 a.m. At some point in the walk, the dog accidentally stepped on a thin layer of ice. The ice eased in seconds, and Phoenix sank into the icy lake and could not get back out onto the surface of the ice, which was slippery and broken.
The owner of the dog got alarmed by the situation and called for help as soon as possible.
Within minutes of receiving the emergency call, firefighters from the Watch Hill Fire Department and the Misquamicut Fire Department arrived at the scene. Recognizing the dangers of ice rescue, the team prepared specialized equipment to safely retrieve the dog.
A bright orange ice rescue dressed firefighter rowed in the frozen pond and then carefully swam to Phoenix. The rescuer, with calm movements and with the help of appropriate training, took the dog, and other team members helped him on the shore.
Firefighters used an inflatable rescue boat and safety equipment to safely bring both the rescuer and Phoenix back to shore.
After the rescue, firefighters underwent medical checkups to ensure they had not developed hypothermia due to extreme cold. Luckily, no rescuers were hurt as physicians found out.
Firefighters also examined Phoenix and confirmed that the dog had no injuries. The rescue marked the firefighters’ first successful operation of the year, ending the first day on an emotional and positive note.
This accident reminds us of how frozen water bodies are dangerous to pets in winter. Ice that appears solid can be dangerously thin, especially near the edges of ponds and lakes.
Pet owners are advised to:
The rescue of Phoenix is a strong illustration of courage, teamwork, and kindness. Professional firefighters acted quickly and safely returned the beloved family pet to its owner. The viral video moved viewers deeply, emphasized winter safety, and celebrated the courage of first responders who save lives.