TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Firefighters rescued a dog stranded in a “dangerous situation” near the Florida River earlier this week.
Sumter County Firefighters said they received several calls from officials in the Jan Parkleek Wildlife Control Area on the Withrackchee River around 9:30 a.m. Sunday.
The dog, later identified as a “Blackie,” obtained a collar, entwined the leash into the tree, and was unable to release itself from the edge of the water.
The animal control officer responded and tried to reach Blackie on land. However, the attempt failed and the rescuers realized that the only way to reach the dog was by boat.
A firefighter from Sumter County Fire & EMS was called to launch two boats at the Blackie location. The team carefully freed Blackie from his intertwined leash and brought him back to the land.
Firefighters said Blackie was “miraculously unharmed” and was missing for about a week. After his microchip was scanned, he contacted his owner and arrived immediately for an emotional reunion.
“This rescue highlights the dedication, skills and teamwork of both SCA and SCFEM in serving and protecting communities, whether humans or animals.
