A Heroic Rescue: Firefighters Save Blind Horse from Drowning

Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday moments of courage that remind us of the true spirit of humanity. This heartwarming story from Colorado is one such reminder.
Just a few days ago, the dedicated firefighters of Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) were called into action at the intersection of N. Giddings Rd. and E. CR 56, where a beautiful blind horse named Lacy was found struggling in a canal. At 9:50 a.m., the PFA team arrived to find Lacy, a blind female horse in her 20s, up to her shoulders in moderately flowing water, unable to escape on her own.
Lacy’s plight quickly drew the attention of not only the PFA but also their Large Animal Rescue Team (LART), the Colorado State University (CSU) animal care team, and UC Health ambulance services. With expertise in swift water and animal rescue, one firefighter bravely entered the canal, securing a harness around Lacy’s neck in an attempt to guide her to safety.
The team’s first approach was to guide Lacy downstream under a bridge, where the slope was less steep, hoping the horse would be able to climb out. Throughout the process, the CSU veterinary team stayed onshore, providing valuable advice on how to keep Lacy calm and steady.
Despite their efforts, Lacy struggled to move, growing increasingly exhausted from the attempt. According to a Facebook post by PFA, “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.” In response, the team made the tough decision to sedate Lacy with a mild sedative to reduce her distress.
The PFA team quickly regrouped and devised a new plan. Using a winch system, they carefully pulled Lacy from the water, and within moments, she was safely onshore. The CSU medical team immediately checked her vitals and began treatment, confirming that while Lacy had some cuts on her legs, there were no major injuries.
Once her sedation wore off, Lacy, showing her incredible resilience, perked up and was ready to enjoy some fresh hay and gentle strokes from her rescuers. Thanks to the bravery and teamwork of the PFA, CSU, and all those involved, Lacy’s life was saved, and she can now continue to live the peaceful, loving life she deserves.
This rescue not only highlights the strength and compassion of the people involved but also reminds us of the incredible bond between humans and animals, and the power of teamwork in moments of crisis.