Horse Rescued From Frozen Creek Near Cochin, Sask., Finds Safety

A horse with no permanent home has been rescued after falling through the ice of a frozen creek near the resort village of Cochin, Saskatchewan. The animal, now affectionately nicknamed “Frosty,” was pulled to safety following a coordinated rescue effort by local residents, municipal leaders and police officers.

The incident unfolded Friday morning when a concerned resident reported seeing a horse trapped in icy water between Jackfish Lake and Murray Lake. Cochin Mayor Mark Pattinson responded immediately and, along with a friend, located the horse struggling in approximately four feet of freezing water. The animal had managed to get its front legs onto the ice but was unable to pull itself free.

Initial attempts to rescue the horse using ropes and manpower were unsuccessful. As more community members arrived, a Jeep equipped with a winch was brought in to assist. Using strong rope attached to the vehicle, the group was able to winch the exhausted horse out of the ice less than half an hour after it was first located.

The horse was in critical condition after being trapped for several hours, with ice forming on its body and visible signs of severe exhaustion. At one point, responders feared the animal might not survive. However, after being gently assisted to its feet, the horse began walking on its own. A large blanket was placed over him, and he was led to the village shop to warm up with hay and water.

Residents quickly rallied to help, bringing feed, bandages and offering financial support for veterinary care. According to Mayor Pattinson, the horse’s owner had passed away, leaving the animal without proper care and wandering the area alone. Despite this, the overwhelming response from the community ensured the horse received immediate attention and compassion.

Local farmers later transported Frosty by trailer to the Lakeland Veterinary Clinic in North Battleford, where he is currently being treated and monitored. Officials say the rescue highlights both the dangers posed by unstable winter ice conditions and the strength of community action in rural Saskatchewan.