Two Clydesdales ventured away from their traditional farm and ended up in a precarious situation when they fell into icy waters after breaking through the frozen surface of a lake.
Gunther and Wilhelm, the two draft horses, managed to escape from their enclosure at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm in Pennsylvania. They were discovered just a short distance from their home, stranded in freezing water up to their necks. A vigilant neighbor spotted them in the center of the lake through binoculars and promptly contacted authorities for assistance.
Emergency responders were summoned to the location to assist the two Clydesdales, each weighing 1500 pounds, that required rescue. Given their substantial size and distance from the shoreline, conventional lifting methods were impractical.
Therefore, the rescue team employed chainsaws to carve a passage through the icy surface towards safety. Once the pathway was established, the horses were carefully guided through it. They were subsequently pulled ashore, where a veterinarian promptly examined them.
The entire community rallied together, providing assistance in the form of blankets, heaters, and even a boat, as they came out in full force to lend their support.
“The combined efforts of Blue Ridge Hook and Ladder, Stroud Township Fire Company, Shawnee Fire Company, Wind Gap Fire Company, Northeast Search and Rescue, Portland PA Fire Company, Cross River Veterinarians, Quiet Valley Staff and Volunteers, and numerous compassionate neighbors who provided boats and towels made the successful rescue of the horses possible,” shared the farm in a post.
Both horses were soaked, chilled, and famished, with a few minor scratches. They wasted no time in devouring the provided hay. The veterinarian initiated IV fluids for both horses to prevent colic and kept a close watch on their condition. The farm later shared an update stating that the horses were recovering nicely, offering reassurance that they would make a full recovery.
As for the farm, the employees are installing a dual fence system to prevent the large geldings from embarking on another escapade. “They are also on strict restriction for the foreseeable future: no unauthorized outings, romantic pursuits, personal electronic devices, etc.,” shared the farm in their post.
Watch the amazing rescue in the video below.
Rewritten Source: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/clydesdales-rescue/