Firefighters save Fergus from frozen lake in Esher (From Your Local Guardian)

Firefighters save Fergus from frozen lake in Esher

1:23pm Tuesday 14th February 2012 in Elmbridge By Louise Robertson

A chocolate labrador was rescued from a frozen pond by fleet-footed firefighters on February 13.

Fergus the dog fell through thin ice at Black Pond, Esher, at about 5.30pm and the owners could not rescue him in their canoe because of the ice.

Esher firefighters attended to help rescue Fergus and used specialist equipment was to reach the dog, who was about 30m from the bank.

They inflated ice paths and managed to reach Fergus, who was very distressed.

Once on dry land Fergus’s condition began to deteriorate rapidly and firefighters ran the half mile to the car park, carrying the dog.

He is currently recovering at a veterinary clinic and it is hoped he will be back with his family soon.

A firefighter at Esher fire said: “If a family pet does get into difficulty in water we would strongly advise you call 999 and ask for assistance.

“Please do not attempt to rescue the animal yourself if it puts you in any danger.”