FRYEBURG, Maine — Rescue crews helped a dog to shore after it fell through the thin ice covering Lovewell Pond in Fryeburg Thursday morning.
Officials say a visiting family dog wandered out onto the thin ice around 11:50 a.m. and could not return to shore on its own.
The landowner, a 39-year-old Fryeburg resident, rescued the dog using a flat-board. However, he became stranded as well and needed to be rescued.
The 39-year-old female dog owner tried to rescue both her friend and her dog, but she fell through the ice as well. She was able to return to shore and call 911.
After approximately 15 to 20 minutes the dog, a 2-year-old Weimaraner named Chappy, and its rescuer were safely returned to shore, where medical staff was waiting.
“We are pleased this story had a happy ending for both Chappy and its adult rescuers. Many dogs are attracted to water and depend on their owners for keeping them safe during thin ice conditions,” Chief Joshua Potvin, Fryeburg Rescue, said.
Both adults were treated on scene by Fryeburg Rescue and were not transported to the hospital.
“We are reminding the public to use caution when they are near frozen bodies of water. Early 911 activation and prompt response to this scene by responders prevented a potential tragedy,” Potvin said.