A dramatic and heartwarming rescue unfolded in an icy upstate New York pond when a horse named Sly found himself trapped in frigid water, unable to escape. The rescue effort, captured on bodycam footage by the Saratoga Springs Police Department, showcased the determination and teamwork of local police officers, neighbors, and family members who came together to save the 22-year-old quarter horse. Sly, weighing a staggering 1,300 pounds, was seen flailing his legs in desperation as he struggled to free himself from the icy grip of the pond. The video footage reveal the tense and emotional moments as rescuers worked tirelessly to pull Sly to safety, their voices filled with encouragement and urgency. “One, two, three, pull!” and “C’mon, baby. We got ya!” they exclaimed, their grunts of effort echoing through the cold air.
Saratoga Springs Police Officer Kyle Clinton was the first to arrive at the scene, where he found Sly’s owner, Ali Ernst, fighting to keep the horse’s head above the water. Together, they managed to get Sly’s head back onto the ice, but the struggle was far from over. Soon, more officers, neighbors, and family members joined the effort, forming a group of nine determined individuals who pulled together—literally—to save Sly. Their combined strength eventually paid off, and Sly was lifted out of the water. Remarkably, within minutes of being rescued, the exhausted horse was able to stand on his own feet, a testament to his resilience and the quick action of his rescuers.
The rescue was nothing short of miraculous, especially given the perilous conditions. Sly was rushed to the Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital, where Ernst works as a technician, and placed under close medical supervision. Initially, Sly was hypothermic, his body struggling to recover from the freezing water. However, by Wednesday, he had made a significant recovery and was well enough to return home. Reflecting on the ordeal, Ernst revealed that she first noticed Sly and two other horses playing on the pond when she returned home from work—an activity that, while not unusual, turned deadly when the ice gave way beneath Sly’s weight.
Ernst acted swiftly upon realizing Sly’s predicament. She called for help and then rushed to grab Sly’s halter, desperately trying to keep his head above the ice. “I was losing the battle to keep him above water alone,” she admitted, her voice laced with the emotion of that terrifying moment. In a bold move, she tossed a rope into the water, hoping against hope that it would catch one of Sly’s hind legs—and it did. With the rope secured, she and the rescuers pulled with all their might, their collective effort eventually saving Sly’s life. The harrowing experience underscored the fragility of life and the importance of swift action in critical moments.
The rescue not only highlights the heroism of the officers and neighbors but also the unbreakable bond between Sly and his owner. Ernst’s quick thinking and unwavering dedication, coupled with the selfless efforts of the rescuers, were the key factors in saving Sly’s life. The incident also served as a stark reminder of the dangers of icy water and the importance of taking precautions to prevent such accidents. In response to the close call, Ernst has since taken steps to ensure that Sly and the other horses on the property remain safe. “There’s an electric fence up around the pond now,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to protecting her beloved animals.
This incredible rescue story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity for compassion, teamwork, and determination. From the neighbors who rushed to help to the police officers who refused to give up, the rescue of Sly is a testament to the strength of community and the enduring bond between humans and animals. As Sly returns to his normal life, the memory of that icy day will serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the heroism that emerges in moments of crisis. The story of Sly’s rescue will no doubt inspire countless others, proving that even in the coldest of times, hope, courage, and kindness can prevail.
