An amazing rescue took place in Brevard County Thursday morning after a large horse gets stuck in mud in Merritt Island.
- Authorities rescue 2,000 lb horse stuck in mud
- 'Dan' broke out of his pen at a ranch in Merritt Island
- Animal rescue had to sedate the horse, pull him up w/ straps
The 14-year old, 2,000 pound horse named Dan, broke out of his pen at the Obloy Family Ranch and Petting Zoo in Merritt Island.
"Horses are not meant to lay down for too long a period on one side," said Equine Veterinarian Dr. Patrick Biegel, who was called in to help. "Unfortunately they are going to die, because they can't get up."
The situation was dire – a matter of life or death – and the one-ton animal needed help fast.
Dan was stuck in mud in a swampy area, with water dangerously close to his head. But in came Dr. Biegel and Brevard Animal Services.
After sedating the horse to reduce the stress, they tied the horse with straps, then using a back-hoe, slowly pulled him to safety.
They wrapped Dan in blankets to warm him up, and then his five-hour ordeal was over.
Eventually the huge animal stood up on his own and began to eat some hay.
"He let us help him," Biegel said. "He knew we were helping him."
Dan was reunited with his brother, who was happy to see him. Both are rescues, who arrived in poor health eight months ago from North Carolina.
The horse's owner said he's thrilled with the outcome.
"They have a mind of their own, and get curious sometimes," said Eric Obloy. "Things happen. The best situation came out of this."
The vet will come back to check on Dan and make sure he's healthy.
Soon the horse will be back at it, entertaining the visitors, including children, who visit the ranch.