A horse rescued from Illinois floodwaters is now back home and recovering after a harrowing overnight ordeal.
First responders rescued Troy when he was stranded in the fast-moving waters of Coon Creek in Illinois, northwest of Chicago, after overnight storms caused a nearby waterway to overflow, reaching depths of 15 feet. The horse was found about 600 feet from shore; rescuers worked with a local veterinarian to reach the animal and get him to safety.
Photo Credit: Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts
Troy was suffering from significant hypothermia when crews arrived, according to the Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts. Because the current was strong and the water was deep, responders couldn’t simply lead the animal straight across, so one team used a boat to reach him. The rescue took a coordinated effort involving firefighters, sheriff’s deputies, swift water technicians, and the veterinarian, with one responder also taken to a hospital for cold exposure.
Photo Credit: Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts
The horse was later transported to a veterinary facility for continued care, where he was reportedly able to stand and begin eating again. He’s now safely back on the farm with his best friends.
Photo Credit: Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts
Lady Freethinker thanks the team of individuals who worked together to help this horse out of a frightening situation, deliver the care he needed to recover, and return him to his home.
