A quick-thinking police officer in Rhode Island did not hesitate to plunge into a frigid, muddy pond to save a distressed elderly dog, in a heartwarming act of bravery that has captured public admiration.
Icy Plunge for a Canine Rescue
The dramatic incident unfolded around 8am yesterday at the Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth. Lieutenant Khatu Khubchandani of the Portsmouth Police Department responded to a call reporting a dog stuck in a small, ice-covered body of water filled with thick mud.
Photos released by the department show the lieutenant's determined rescue. The dog, an older black female, had managed to get away from its owner and was struggling and howling in the icy water. Facing temperatures around 35F (1.6C), Lieutenant Khubchandani had to break through the ice and wade into the cold, murky pond to reach the stranded animal.
Reunited and Safe After Ordeal
The officer's efforts were successful. The police department confirmed he was able to "safely remove the dog and reunite her with her owner," an older woman. They added that the pet is now "safe and warm." As a standard procedure, Animal Control also followed up on the incident.
A staff member at the country club noted that many people walk their pets on the grounds. She explained that the mud in the pond was exceptionally thick and praised the police for their swift and effective response, expressing gratitude for their service.
Public Praise for Heroic Actions
The story, shared online, prompted an outpouring of thanks from the community and dog lovers further afield. One comment read, "Thanks to all who responded and took action. Above and beyond. We are truly blessed here in Portsmouth, and are so grateful for your service. Well done!"
Another person wrote, "Good work, Lt! All of us dog lovers appreciate that in the freezing cold and bitter weather, you saved that pup." A third simply stated, "Thank You for your Service and Thank You for saving this old Pup!!!"
The rescue highlights the risks officers sometimes take beyond traditional law enforcement. It also serves as a reminder of the dangers of icy water. In a related context, a spokesperson for the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management stated in January 2024 that the state does not monitor most water bodies for ice depth and thickness, underscoring the unpredictable hazards.
This incident follows another remarkable canine rescue about a month ago in San Diego, where a missing black Labrador mix was found swimming half a mile from shore after being swept out to sea, and was eventually saved by lifeguards and the US Coast Guard.
