For those of us who have pets or those of us who have a love of animals, we try to do our best to take care of them on a day-to-day basis. At times, however, we may be provided with the opportunity to step up to the plate and do something truly amazing. Perhaps it could be saving an animal from an animal shelter or maybe caring for an animal that has special needs. As you are about to see, there may also be an occasion in which true heroism is necessary.
A 49-year-old man, Don Chatten was near Ellicott Creek Dog Park with his own two rescue dogs when one of his dogs spotted something. The dog stopped at the foot of the bridge and began to act strangely. Don realized that something was wrong, so he followed the dog and before long, he found another small dog that was trapped in the freezing waters of the river.
Don’s first instinct was to have people call 911 but he realized that he had to step up and do something as well. He didn’t hesitate, he took off his shoes and plunged into the icy waters to save the animal in distress. After breaking the ice with his arm, he swam to the patch of broken ice and save the dog. He then picked up the dog, held him close to keep him warm and got out of the freezing waters.
The dog’s name is Jackson and he is a terrier mix. He was in shock after being in the freezing cold water and couldn’t stand on his own. After being taken to the veterinarian he was given emergency care. His body temperature had dropped so severely that if Don would not have jumped in to save him, he surely would have perished.
As it turns out, Jackson’s owner was looking for the dog and was distraught over not be able to find him. He was so grateful for what this hero did and was thrilled to have his dog back home again.
The amazing rescue was captured on video by some people who were in the area. You can see it here:
Source: Paws Planet