UK: Warning after two dogs rescued from icy lakes

UK: Warning after two dogs rescued from icy lakes
By Steve Lloyd
December 29, 2009

DOG owners are being warned about the dangers of frozen water after two pets were rescued from area lakes.  The first rescue was on December 21 when fire fighters were called to a dog stuck in ice at Hawley Lake near Farnborough at 11.37am.  The border collie was being walked by her owners and had chased ducks across the frozen water.  She managed to scramble around 30 metres across the ice before loosing her footing, falling into the water and becoming trapped in the ice.

Fire engines from Yateley and Rushmoor were called to the lake, along with a multi-role vehicle containing specialist equipment and animal rescue kit.  Two fire fighters in special dry suits made their way out to the tired dog on two inflated ice-rescue paths.  Martin Walters of Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said the dog was trapped in the water for around 20 minutes.  “She showed extraordinary endurance and the ongoing encouragement from the fire fighters must certainly have helped her in these treacherous conditions,” he added.

A similar incident happened on Christmas Eve at 11.21am when a male spaniel chased ducks onto an ice-covered Fleet Pond before falling through the water.  Fire fighters wearing protective clothing waded out around 20 metres to reach the dog.  A total of 18 fire fighters from Fleet and Rushmoor helped with the rescue.  Mr Walters added:  “The fire fighters have worked well in cold and perilous conditions.

“During the freezing weather it is important for owners to ensure their dogs are kept on leads at all times so that this kind of incident can be avoided.”  Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service is also warning people not to venture onto the ice or throw animals toys onto or near frozen water.


Source: http://www.gethampshire.co.uk/news/s/2063179_warning_after_two_dogs_rescued_from_icy_lakes