When Ed Berger, a Massachusetts resident, took his two dogs for a walk, he never expected the ordeal that awaited them. They were enjoying their time until Tommy, his eight-year-old Cockapoo, spotted some birds and ran after them, sprinting onto the ice-covered Lake Waban.
Unfortunately, as Tommy ventured onto the ice, it cracked beneath him, plunging him into the frigid water. Trapped and terrified, he trembled in shock, putting his faith in his owner, believing that help was on the way.
Chilly Rescue Mission
Seeing Tommy in distress was a shock for Berger, who immediately sought help from a passerby to call 9-1-1. Determined to save his dog, he borrowed a boat from nearby Wellesley College, but tragedy struck when the boat capsized, leaving him in the icy waters.
As emergency services made their way to him, Berger felt utterly helpless, unable to assist his beloved pet.
“There’s nothing more horrific than not being able to get to your dog. You love them as if they were family,” Berger shared with NBC 10 Boston.
Berger And His Beloved Dog Are Safe
Shortly thereafter, the Wellesley Fire Department arrived at the scene. Wearing yellow rescue suits, two firefighters carefully made their way over the ice, secured to the shore. They first rescued Berger, returning several minutes later to save Tommy, who barked in anticipation, confident that help was at hand.
The firefighters successfully brought Tommy to shore, and both he and Berger sighed in relief. Following the rescue, Berger was transported to Newton-Wellesley Hospital, while Tommy received treatment for hypothermia. Authorities recommend that dog owners refrain from attempting to rescue pets that fall through ice, advocating for securing their dogs on leashes near icy areas to prevent similar incidents.
“Do not attempt to rescue the pet; go find help. Well-meaning pet owners can easily become victims themselves when trying to assist their pets.” emphasized Mass.gov.
After receiving medical assistance, both Berger and Tommy returned home safely. The duo is doing well and grateful to be reunited, with Berger expressing deep appreciation to the emergency teams that saved their lives.
