A rescue dog’s first few days in a new home can be intimidating, which is why they may want to flee. During a walk, Lucy, a freshly acquired Labradoodle, ran away from her new human. It didn’t take long to find the dog, but it wasn’t easy to bring her home.
Lucy found up floating on the Detroit River on a sliver of ice. It’s unknown how she got out there, but she managed to cling to the ice as the water rushed by her. Officers from the Wyandotte Police Department, firefighters, and animal control officers all arrived to assist.
Lucy had been noticed on the ice by neighbors, who had phoned 911. On an ice floe, the 80-pound dog lay immobilized in terror. Although she was only a short distance from the shore, she was too afraid and fatigued to try swimming. Swimming is most likely how she came to be in such a dangerous predicament.
The police came first, but they needed time to devise a strategy. They debated whether to plunge into the frigid waters themselves or call the US Coast Guard. Fortunately, Wyandotte firefighters arrived quickly and took command of the rescue. Animal control officers were also on hand to assist.
One firefighter steadied a ladder against a nearby dock while another climbed down the ladder into the freezing water during the rescue. A catchpole was used by the firefighter in the water to loop around Lucy’s neck. Then he drew her gently toward the ladder. The terrified dog had to be in the water for a few seconds before the firefighter scooped her up and cradled her tightly in his arms.
On Facebook, the police department shared a video of the incredible rescue. Many individuals expressed their gratitude to the firefighter who went above and beyond to save the puppy.
This isn’t the first time firefighters have had to deal with a similar circumstance. Teddy, another dog, survived four days on the ice of the Detroit River, and it’s a marvel he’s still alive. Teddy and Lucy were not the only dogs in that situation who were fortunate.