On New Year’s Day morning, a golden retriever named Phoenix was out for a walk in Westerly, Rhode Island, when things took a scary turn. While exploring near Little Maschaug Pond, Phoenix wandered onto the frozen surface — and suddenly, the ice gave way beneath him.

His owner could only watch in fear as Phoenix struggled in the freezing water, too far from shore to be reached.

Within minutes, local heroes were on the scene. Firefighters from the Misquamicut and Watch Hill Fire Departments, along with Westerly Police and Ambulance crews, rushed to the pond. They threw on bright red and orange ice rescue suits, tethered themselves with ropes, and carefully crawled across the cracking ice.

Chunks of ice broke around them as they moved closer to Phoenix, who was still fighting to stay above water. But the team didn’t stop — their mission was clear: save the dog.

In a heart-pounding moment captured on video, the rescuers reached Phoenix and gently pulled him from the freezing water. He was quickly brought back to shore where more firefighters waited with an inflatable boat and emergency gear.

Thankfully, Phoenix and the firefighters were all okay. EMS crews checked everyone for signs of hypothermia, but no one needed medical treatment. It was a dramatic start to 2026 — and a happy ending to what could have been a tragedy.

The Misquamicut Fire Department used the moment to warn others: no ice is ever truly safe. Even trained rescuers face big risks in these situations. Still, their bravery didn’t go unnoticed.

“God bless you for saving that pup,” one Facebook user wrote. Another added, “We’re so lucky to have such amazing fire and rescue teams.”