After sliding through the ice on a frozen lake, two Clydesdales escaped from their historic farm and found themselves in deep water — literally.
The two draft horses, Gunther and Wilhelm, got out from their farm at Pennsylvania’s Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm. The geldings were discovered trapped in icy water less than a mile from their house. A neighbor happened to see them with their binoculars in the middle of the lake and instantly phoned for assistance.
Two 1500-pound Clydesdales needed to be rescued, so firefighters were dispatched to the site. They couldn’t be lifted out of the ocean due of their size and distance from the coast.
Instead, the rescuers cut a route through the ice using chainsaws to reach the beach. The horses were led to safety after the route was created. They were pulled to the beach, where they were checked by a veterinarian.
The entire community pitched in, bringing blankets, heaters, and even a boat.
The horses were rescued thanks to the efforts of Blue Ridge Hook and Ladder, Stroud Township Fire Company, Shawnee Fire Company, Wind Gap Fire Company, Northeast Search and Rescue, Portland PA Fire Company, Cross River Veterinarians, Quiet Valley Staff and Volunteers, and countless neighbors who loaned boats and towels.
Both were wet, cold, and hungry, with a few small bruises on their bodies. They both started eating the hay that had been supplied to them right away. To prevent colic, the vet began them on IV fluids and continued to watch them. The farm sent an update, stating that the horses were doing well and that everything will be Alright.
The farm’s team is building a double fence to prevent the huge geldings from going on another journey. The farm further stated, “They are also grounded for the foreseeable future: no after-hours romps, girlfriends, cell phones, etc.”
In the video below, you can see the incredible rescue.
