Spotsylvania County, VA – A potentially deadly situation ended safely Wednesday morning after first responders rescued a dog stranded on an ice-covered lake in Spotsylvania County.
According to the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office, deputies and fire-rescue crews responded just before 8 a.m. to the 5400 block of Ridge Road after reports of a dog in distress. The dog, a local Rottweiler named Church, had wandered onto a nearby frozen lake with another dog when the ice began to break apart, leaving him stranded.
Officials said recent winter storms made road conditions difficult in the area, but 4×4 fire and rescue vehicles were able to navigate the icy terrain and reach the scene safely. Firefighters then conducted a boat-based ice rescue to reach the dog.
Church was successfully pulled from the lake and transported to a nearby animal hospital for observation. Authorities said he is doing well and did not appear to suffer any serious injuries.
The second dog, described as an unnamed Labrador, was located shortly afterward after a neighbor spotted the animal running through a nearby yard. Officials confirmed both dogs are in good health.
The sheriff’s office credited the successful rescue to coordinated efforts between deputies, fire-rescue crews, and alert neighbors, noting the challenging frigid conditions on scene.
Special recognition was given to Firefighters Brian S. Smith and Kevin Callan of Station 2, A-Shift, for their expertise in boat and ice rescue operations.
Authorities are reminding pet owners to use caution around frozen lakes and ponds, as ice conditions can quickly become unstable, especially following recent temperature changes.
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