A horse from Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch fell through the ice on a frozen pond, prompting a rescue operation by Loveland Fire Rescue Authority and Berthoud Fire Protection District. The horse was submerged in icy water for approximately 45 minutes before crews arrived and used rescue straps to lift it out of the water. The exhausted animal was then warmed with blankets and heaters before being treated by a veterinarian at the ranch.
This incident marked the second time in the year that LFRA had to rescue an animal trapped in icy water. While large animal rescues are uncommon, LFRA typically handles a few per year, such as horses caught in fences or cows falling in ditches. Ice rescues present additional challenges, as cranes cannot reach animals in the middle of a pond, requiring manual labor in cold temperatures and hazardous conditions.
Battalion Chief Jayson Starck emphasized the importance of responding quickly to large animal rescues, as the exhausted horse was unable to help itself out of the water. He noted that the ranch staff’s observation of distress in another horse on the property helped alert them to the situation. The successful rescue operation took about 15 minutes, showcasing the teamwork between firefighters and ranch staff in ensuring the safety and well-being of the animals.
