Watch: Police to Save Horse from Icy Pond in Upstate New York

Police of Saratoga Springs, New York, came together to rescue a horse named Sly after he fell through the ice of a local pond. 

The incident occurred late Monday afternoon when Sly’s owner, Ali Ernst, returned home from work to find her three horses playing near the pond—a common sight on her property. However, upon a second glance, she was horrified to see that Sly, a 22-year-old quarter horse weighing approximately 1,300 pounds (590 kilograms), had broken through the ice and was struggling in the frigid water.

Acting swiftly, Ernst rushed to Sly’s aid, grabbing his halter to keep his head above water while urgently calling for assistance. Officer Kyle Clinton of the Saratoga Springs Police Department was the first to arrive, helping Ernst support Sly’s head on the ice. They were soon joined by additional officers, neighbors, and family members.

The rescuers employed multiple ropes, securing them around Sly’s halter and legs. With coordinated effort, the group of about nine people pulled together, chanting “One, two, three, pull!” After several strenuous attempts, they successfully freed Sly from the icy grip of the pond. Once on solid ground, Sly managed to stand after a few minutes.

Sly was then transported to Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, where Ernst works as a technician. He was treated for hypothermia and, by Wednesday, had recovered sufficiently to return home. To prevent future incidents, Ernst has installed an electric fence around the pond to ensure the safety of her horses.