The South Kalispell Fire Department responded to the scene near Patrick Creek in Montana, after the four horses fell through the ice, and were stuck up to their necks.
Numerous attempts were made to pull out the horses, each one failing until the rescuers eventually harnessed some extra ‘horse power’ when they brought in a tractor.
A dozen people, including firefighters, staff from County Animal Control, as well as neighbors, all worked together to free the horses.
They first tried to make makeshift pontoons from pallets and other pieces of wood in an attempt to make a ramp.
They then tried to pull one horse out of the water by using a long rope, taking care to avoid breaking any of its legs, but they still couldn’t free the animal completely.
Eventually, all four horses were removed safely by using a harness attached to a tractor.
They were all taken to a veterinary clinic where they received care.
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