Sparta police officer rescues dog from icy Lake Mohawk waters
Sunkiss, the 10-year-old Labrador, is now back home along with 4-year-old Bruno. Their owner says this isn’t the first time the dogs have gotten loose, but it was their first time on the ice.
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A Sussex County police officer is being called a hero for diving into icy waters to rescue a stranded dog.
“I honestly didn't think my first rescue was going to be a dog, but we are always prepared here at Sparta P.D.,” said Officer Michael Poon.
Sunkiss, the 10-year-old Labrador, is now back home along with 4-year-old Bruno. Their owner says this isn’t the first time the dogs have gotten loose, but it was their first time on the ice.
“I had been pacing inside, in and out of the deck, and realized the dogs weren't in the house when I got off the phone,” said owner Chance Dobbs.
When a neighbor called police on Wednesday afternoon, Poon was the only officer on-squad trained for ice rescues. While he suited up, other officers kept Bruno from jumping in too.
“I think she knew I was there for her to help her out of there,” said Poon. “I tried to initially grab her by the scruff and get her out, but the ice water gear, the gloves are very, very thick, so the dexterity wasn't there. And then when she started swimming away from me, I knew I had to jump in the water.”
“I can’t tell you how thankful I am that our police department has got the officers trained as diversely as they do,” said Dobbs.
Dobbs said he has an electric fence, but the dogs found a weak spot. The gate had also been left open.
“She's ready to go again,” said Dobbs. “I'm just going to have to keep a closer eye on the gate and the door.”
