Firefighters, large‑animal crews, and even a pony helped rescue a horse from an icy pond late Monday afternoon after it broke through the frozen surface behind a rural Moore County property.
The horse had reportedly wandered out during feeding time and walked onto the surface of an icy pond before the ice gave way, dropping the animal into frigid water up to its belly. Though the horse was not in danger of drowning, hypothermia was an immediate concern. Temperatures in the Sandhills have hovered below freezing for two days, leaving ponds iced over across the countryside and water temperatures dangerous.
A Cypress Pointe firefighter works to break the ice.
Firefighters from nearby Cypress Pointe Fire and Rescue arrived to find the horse shivering and struggling to gain footing as it bumped against sheets of ice. Rescuers used long poles to break a path toward shore while working to keep the animal calm.
Meanwhile, as firefighters continued their work, a pony joined the rescue efforts. The horse’s owner brought a companion pony to the bank to encourage the horse to keep moving.
4Hooves Large Animal Services also assisted in the rescue. Justin McLeod, who co-owns 4Hooves, arrived on scene and told Sandhills Sentinel that the organization has handled several cold‑weather calls in recent weeks as winter conditions continue to strain animals and owners alike.
Crews make progress in freeing the trapped horse.
With the ice cleared and steady coaxing from rescuers (and the pony), the horse finally climbed out of the water. It was immediately wrapped in an animal blanket to help warm its body and prevent worsening hypothermia. The horse was visibly shaking as it was taken to safety.
Southern Pines Equine responded to the scene to assess the horse and provide additional care.
The horse’s owner, relieved after the rescue, called the outcome “a beautiful story.”
Article by Sandhills Sentinel assistant editor Abegail Murphy. Photos and on-scene details from Sandhills Sentinel publisher BJ Goodridge.
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