Credit: Misquamicut Fire Department
A dangerous winter walk turned into a dramatic rescue on New Year’s Day in Rhode Island when a curious dog named Phoenix ended up struggling in icy water after falling through a thin layer of ice.
The yellow Labrador was out with his owner near Little Masachaug Pond in Westerly early on January 1 when he wandered out onto what looked like solid ice. Unfortunately, the thin surface gave way and Phoenix found himself unable to pull himself out of the frigid water.
Credit: Misquamicut Fire Department
Key Takeaways
- Firefighters in Misquamicut and Watch Hill, Rhode Island, rescued a dog that fell through thin ice on New Year’s Day after he wandered onto a frozen pond and became trapped in icy water.
- The yellow Labrador, named Phoenix, was struggling in frigid water when emergency responders in ice rescue gear reached him and brought him to safety.
- The rescue was the first call of 2026 for the Misquamicut Fire Department, and both the dog and firefighters were unharmed after the incident.
- Fire officials used the successful rescue to warn that “no ice is ever safe”, urging residents to avoid walking on frozen bodies of water and to call professionals in dangerous situations.
Witnesses called for help, and the Misquamicut Fire Department, along with the Watch Hill Fire Department and support from the local police and ambulance corps, responded quickly to the scene. Firefighters donned specialized ice rescue suits and carefully approached the dog, who was visibly struggling in the cold pond.
In a tense but successful operation, emergency crews made their way across unstable ice to reach Phoenix. Using safety ropes and an inflatable rescue boat, they lifted the Labrador out of the water and brought him back to shore. Everyone involved, both the dog and the rescuers, made it through the ordeal without serious injury.
Temperatures that morning were biting , about 26 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chill dropping temperatures even lower, making the rescue even more challenging. Despite the cold, firefighters were evaluated for hypothermia afterward and thankfully did not require medical treatment.
Officials later celebrated the rescue as the department’s first call of 2026, a powerful reminder of the unpredictable risks of winter weather. The local departments urged residents to be extremely cautious around ponds, lakes, and other frozen bodies of water, repeating a vital safety message: “No ice is ever safe”, no matter how solid it looks.
Phoenix’s owner was understandably relieved, grateful that professional responders arrived in time. Firefighters also checked in on Phoenix after the rescue, noting that he was cold and tired but otherwise doing well. They suggested he get extra warmth and care at home and check in with his veterinarian if needed.
This kind of rescue highlights the dedication of local emergency responders who train for difficult and dangerous situations, especially during winter. Ice rescues are complex and risky, even for highly trained professionals, and officials stress that untrained bystanders should never attempt similar rescues themselves.
Credit: Misquamicut Fire Department
For Phoenix, the icy ordeal ended with a warm blanket and a safe return home. For the firefighters, it was a successful start to the new year, and a reminder to communities everywhere to stay aware of winter hazards.
If uplifting rescue stories like this warm your heart, you’ll love what we share at Simply Wholesome. Our site brings you inspiring, authentic content that celebrates empathy, community strength, and the positive side of life. From heart-felt animal rescue stories to thoughtful lifestyle insights, our articles explore the moments that uplift and connect us all.
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