VIDEO: Special Rope Team Rescue of Hudson Valley Dog

Freezing temperatures are wreaking havoc across the Hudson Valley, but thanks to the quick-thinking of an Orange County fire department, a local dog escaped being the latest victim of the life-threatening conditions.

Snow and rain over the weekend has frozen solid, and the ice shows no signs of thawing thanks to continued low temperatures across the state. Luckily, first responders were able to help when a pet became stuck down a slick embankment.

Stranded Dog Rescued from Frozen Embankment in Orange County, NY

"Today, our members responded to an animal rescue assignment", began a recent post by the Slate Hill Fire Department (below). A dog, trapped 50 feet down a frozen embankment, was unable to climb up the steep hill.

Rope Rescue of Hudson Valley Dog

First responders used ropes to pull the dog, which was loaded onto a stokes basket alongside a firefighter, to safety. The technique mirrored a recent rescue operation in Ontario County after a car slid nearly 100 feet down a similar hill (below).

Freezing Temperatures Continue Across New York State

With temperature lows in the single-digits across the Hudson Valley this week, dangers will continue for both humans and their pets, and a nationwide rock salt shortage has only added to problems caused by the persisting ice. Review some helpful winter safety tips below.