Ohio Firefighters Rescue Horse Stranded in Backyard Swimming Pool
ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — In an unusual rescue operation that captured the attention of local residents, firefighters and animal rescuers joined forces to save a horse that had wandered away from its pasture and became trapped in a backyard swimming pool. The incident unfolded Wednesday morning when Melissa Freeman Starkey noticed the horse stranded on the pool cover outside her home on Crescent Road.
Responding swiftly, crews from the Barton Fire Department and the Colerain Volunteer Fire Company arrived on the scene alongside Julie Moorehead Larish of Belmont County Hoof & Paw, an organization specializing in equine rescue. Larish described the precarious situation to WTRF-TV, noting that the horse’s front legs were perched atop the pool cover while its hind legs had broken through into the frigid water below. “The cover would creak every time he shifted his weight,” Larish explained, likening the sound to cracking ice, which understandably caused the horse to panic.
To calm the distressed animal, Larish fed the horse grain and spoke softly while firefighters carefully cut away sections of the pool cover. Their coordinated efforts allowed rescuers to guide the horse to the pool stairs, enabling it to climb out safely. Despite appearing cold and showing signs of soreness in its legs from the extended exposure to cold water, the horse was not seriously injured and was returned to its pasture on a neighboring property.
This rescue highlights the critical role that local fire departments and specialized animal rescue groups play in handling unexpected emergencies involving animals. The Barton Fire Department and Colerain Volunteer Fire Company, both integral parts of Ohio’s emergency response network, demonstrated exemplary teamwork and care during the operation. The Belmont County Hoof & Paw organization, whose mission is to assist equines in distress, provided invaluable expertise.
Such incidents underscore the importance of community awareness and preparedness when it comes to animal safety. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, animal rescues require specialized training and equipment, particularly when dealing with large animals like horses. The successful outcome in St. Clairsville serves as a reminder of the dedication and skill of first responders and animal welfare professionals.
Ohio residents and animal lovers nationwide can find guidance on how to prevent similar accidents and how to respond if an animal is trapped or injured through resources provided by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the National Fire Protection Association. These organizations emphasize the importance of secure fencing and supervision to keep livestock safe, especially near hazards like swimming pools.
As winter transitions to spring, the risk of animals wandering into dangerous areas increases, making vigilance essential. The St. Clairsville rescue stands as a heartening example of community cooperation and swift action that ensured a happy ending for a horse that found itself in an unexpected predicament.
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