Tonight it is all cheers for a group of hard working fire fighters and emergency service workers who came to the rescue today. It is one of the biggest fears for all pet owners in the winter and it happens more often than we care to think about, a pet or any animal for that fact ending up out on ice in the middle of water. It is upsetting just to think about much less witness. Fortunately for these two wandering buddies there were some quick thinking folks who called for help before this story could end badly.

According to a press release from the Esopus Fire Department it was around 3 pm on Thursday, February 7th when they were notified that there were 2 dogs stuck on ice in the Hudson River in the area of Parker Ave. When they arrive to the scene it was confirmed that the dogs were trapped out in the river on the ice without access to reach them from land.

At that time Esopus Fire, Rifton Fire with their ice rescue team and the Town of Esopus Volunteer Ambulance Squad were sent to the scene to assist in the rescue. It took approximately ten minute, but the Esopus Firefighters were able to rescue the dogs who were then taken to the SPCA for a health check. Once cleared they were then reunited with their family.

This story has a happy ending thanks to the the Esopus Firefighters who were assisted by the Town of Esopus Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Rifton Fire Department and Ulster County Emergency Services.

If you see an animal in distress place a call and wait for help before attempting to help on your own. Ice melting on ponds, lakes and rivers can be very dangerous to cross. Cold water rescues are extremely dangerous. Always call for help.

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