Colorado Firefighters Race To Rescue Blind Horse From Flooding Waters

Every now and then, a story comes along that restores your faith in humanity. This is one of those moments. 

Recently in Colorado, firefighters from the Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) displayed incredible bravery and compassion when they rescued a horse named Lacy from a dangerous and life-threatening situation.

At 9:50 a.m., responders were dispatched to the intersection of N. Giddings Rd. and E. CR 56. Upon arrival, they found Lacy, a blind horse in her twenties, struggling in a canal, the water rising to her shoulders. 

For a horse already vulnerable due to her blindness, the scene was terrifying. Every moment counted.

What made the rescue remarkable was the collaboration between multiple teams. PFA’s Large Animal Rescue Team, veterinary staff from Colorado State University (CSU), and UC Health ambulance services all joined forces. 

A firefighter with specialized training in swift water and animal rescues stepped courageously into the canal, prepared to risk everything to save Lacy.

He carefully placed a harness around Lacy’s neck, giving the rescuers the chance to guide her downstream toward a bank that was less steep. 

The hope was that Lacy could climb out with their assistance. Onshore, the CSU veterinary team advised the firefighters on techniques to keep the horse calm during the stressful ordeal.

But despite everyone’s best efforts, Lacy was too exhausted to pull herself out. As PFA later explained on Facebook:

“Lacy, already tired, did not have the strength to exit on her own even with assistance from the firefighters on ropes. She laid down after a short attempt. Responders comforted her and the animal care team was able to provide a mild sedative.”

Time was critical. Lacy needed another solution, and quickly.

That’s when the team decided to use a winch system. With ropes, careful coordination, and sheer determination, they worked together to pull the exhausted horse safely out of the canal. 

After an intense and painstaking effort, Lacy finally stood on dry land.

The veterinary team immediately checked her vitals and began treatment. She had several minor cuts on her legs but, miraculously, no major injuries. Once the sedation wore off, Lacy began to show her gentle resilience. 

She nibbled on hay and accepted comforting pats from the rescuers who had just risked so much to save her life.

Updates and photos shared by PFA on X highlighted the teamwork and skill involved in the rescue, drawing admiration from the local community and beyond.

This rescue wasn’t just about technical skill, it was a testament to compassion. Every person involved, from the firefighters wading into icy water to the veterinary experts providing guidance, came together to give Lacy a second chance at life.

Thanks to their courage and quick thinking, Lacy is now safe and can return to her peaceful routine, enjoying hay, sunshine, and the calm life she deserves. 

Stories like this remind us of the power of teamwork, kindness, and perseverance, especially when a life hangs in the balance.