Deputies along with Lacrosse Fire Rescue, and Alachua County Fire Rescue managed to save a drowning horse in a retention pond on April 9.

Once everyone was in position, they pulled the horse to safety using a forward assist technique.

This footage was filmed and produced 9 April 2024.

Deputies along with Lacrosse Fire Rescue, and Alachua County Fire Rescue, responded to a call for service on the NW side of the county on April 9, 2024. When rescuers arrived they found a horse drowning and exhausted in a retention pond. ACFR rescuers dove into the pond to stabilize the animal and hold its head above water, as the rest of the team formulated a rescue plan. The ASO Rural Services was equipped with a winch, and created a harness out of a 6-inch wide strap.

Once everyone was in position, they pulled the horse to safety using a forward assist technique. The horse was responsive, and after some time regained its strength. The horse was reunited with its owner, and appeared to have no injuries.