Firefighters rescue hypothermic dog from icy Luce Creek, owners warned

A large dog was rescued from icy water near Luce Creek after emergency crews responded just before 5:30 a.m. on January 26, 2026, when neighbors heard persistent barking coming from below a steep embankment. Anne Arundel County units, Annapolis crews and Edgewater VFD worked together to reach the animal, secure the scene, and remove the dog from thin ice.

Responders approached the creek cautiously, assessing ice conditions and using a Stokes basket to stabilize the dog on the water and haul it up the bank. Firefighters carried the animal up the driveway to waiting personnel, then transported it to an emergency veterinary clinic. Veterinarians diagnosed signs of hypothermia; after warming and continued monitoring, the dog began to improve.

The coordinated response illustrates how local departments collaborate on water and cold-weather rescues. Anne Arundel County, Annapolis and Edgewater VFD personnel followed protocols for thin-ice incidents, prioritizing both human and animal safety by avoiding direct, uncontrolled entries onto unstable ice and using rescue equipment designed for difficult terrain.

For owners, the incident is a reminder of seasonal hazards around creeks, ponds and other open water. Keep dogs leashed or under strict voice control near shorelines, especially where embankments are steep or ice may be forming. Avoid sending people onto suspect ice to retrieve pets; instead, summon emergency services and give crews clear directions and any information about the animal and its last known location.

If your dog does get wet and cold, move it to a warm, sheltered spot, wrap it in dry blankets or towels, and seek veterinary care immediately rather than attempting to rewarm aggressively at home. Emergency clinics can check body temperature, treat for hypothermia and monitor for secondary problems such as shock or water aspiration.

Hyperenergetic dogs love wind-in-the-face play, but thin ice can turn a routine outing into a life-threatening situation. Work on reliable recall and leash etiquette for waterside walks, and consider carrying a detachable long line for supervised off-leash time where hazards exist. Carrying a charged phone and knowing your location will speed response if you need to call for help.

This rescue ended positively because trained crews used appropriate equipment and veterinary care was available quickly. Take this as a prompt to review how you leash and supervise your dog near water, refresh cold-weather safety practices, and plan ahead so a high-energy adventure does not become a dangerous rescue call.