A devoted pet owner was taken to hospital yesterday (Wednesday) after rescuing his dog from the frozen Marfield Wetlands near Masham.
The man in his 20’s had followed his dog onto the ice after it had fallen through.
Thankfully, both the man and his dog were rescued, and the man was taken to hospital to be checked over.
The dog was “very cold” but is also safe and well.
A police spokesperson said:
“While this incident had a positive outcome, it serves as a critical reminder: if your dog goes onto the ice or falls in, do not follow them.
“Tragically, it’s often the person who goes after the dog who doesn’t survive.
“Stepping onto frozen water is incredibly dangerous. Even if the ice near the bank seems thick, it often becomes thinner as you move toward the centre.
“There’s no guarantee the ice can support a person’s weight.”
They added:
“If someone falls through, they may disappear beneath the surface, out of sight and away from help, and can drown quickly.
“Once in the freezing water, the intense cold can overwhelm them, leaving them unable to help themselves.
“Rescuers—whether a passersby or emergency services—may also risk their lives during rescue attempts.”