Rescued Horse Joins Police Department in Upstate New York

A horse rescued from icy waters earlier this year has joined the police department that rescued him in Upstate New York.

Back in February, we shared the dramatic story of a 22-year-old horse that had fallen through the ice and was stuck in a pond in the area of Saratoga Springs, NY.

Horse Rescued From Icy Pond in Saratoga Springs, NY

At the time, the horse was in imminent danger of freezing to death, and most likely would have if it wasn't for the quick work of first responders. Officers from the Saratoga Springs Police Department's Patrol Division, members of the local fire department, and the horse's owner all worked together to successfully pull the 1,300-pound animal out of the water.

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The dramatic rescue was captured on the responding officer's body camera...

After the horse was removed from the pond, he was hypothermic and was taken to Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital for treatment.

Rescued Horse Joins Department That Saved Him

Four months after that amazing rescue, the Saratoga Springs Police Department (SSPD) has announced that the rescued horse, Sly, is joining the police department's mounted unit.

According to SSPD, since the day Sly was rescued, he has been in training with his owner, Allison Ernst, to prepare him for a new role in public service.

"Thanks to her dedication and community spirit, Sly will now serve alongside the very officers who helped save his life—all at no cost to the department," the department said on Facebook.

Sly is scheduled to be introduced to the public this week at High Rock Park in Saratoga Springs, NY, and will enhance the department’s ability to engage with the public during community events and bolster patrol coverage during the city’s busy summer season.