Good Samaritan Plucks Dog From Freezing Waters
Published: February 23, 2007
A man is called a hero after diving into frigid waters to save a family’s dog that broke through thin ice on Lake Braddock in Annandale Wednesday morning.
Witnesses said the dog named Maximo broke through the ice while chasing geese just before noon. They said the dog managed to stay above the water for about 5 minutes before starting to go under.
Stunned witnesses said a total stranger then jumped into the water to save the animal.
“One gentleman decided he would rescue the dog because the dog had been in there several minutes by then. So, he actually went into the water, went up to about chest deep,” said witness Robin Laffosse.
Once the man grabbed Maximo, neighbors that had gathered in the area then threw out a chain of coats tied together to retrieve him from the lake.
The 45-year-old man was treated in an ambulance before being taken to Inova Fairfax Hospital Center, News4’s Michael Flynn reported.
“Amazing, it’s just amazing. There’s nothing else to say. It was amazing. I don’t know a lot of people who would have done it, because I was sad for the dog, but I wouldn’t have got into the water,” said witness Monica Haynes.
“Some brave guy went in there and it wasn’t even his dog,” said Laffosse. “I wouldn’t have done it. I mean, it all worked out really well, but it might not have.”
The family that owns the dog said they are grateful.
“I’m happy, very happy,” said the dog’s owner.
“That was great. He’s a hero,” said another family member.
The Good Samaritan and the dog are both said to be OK.
Rescue officials said this incident stresses the importance of everyone, including animals, staying off the ice this time of year.
If you enjoyed this good news Subscribe to Good News Blog
If you like this, you'll love Good Animal News:
Share this
To share this simply copy and paste one of the below URL's: