The Valmeyer Fire Department responded to a call for help Tuesday in the area of 1300 Garleb Road at about 2 p.m., after a 2-year-old Saint Bernard mix belonging to Garrett and Brittany Crossin fell through the ice and into a frigid pond near their home.

The owners weren’t sure how long the dog had been stuck in the pond, but Koda was finally rescued by Tim Valentine of the Valmeyer Fire Department, who donned a cold water protection suit and went in after her. The dog, who was alive when pulled from the icy water but under duress, was brought back inside the Crossin home and immediately covered in blankets. The owners also used a hair dryer to help warm the dog.

Koda

Garrett Crossin saw his dog stuck in the pond and tried to conduct a rescue himself but also fell through the ice. He was able to get out of the frigid water but could not get the dog out, so he called 9-1-1.

“I was in dire need of help today and the Valmeyer Fire Department was there,” Crossin said. “Thanks to them, my family is still whole and my dog is doing well. I can’t thank all of them enough.”

Crossin said his dog was checked by a personal friend to make sure the family took proper steps to treat Koda following the incident.

The area of 1300 Garleb Road is located off Bluff Road near the Fountain levee, north of old town Valmeyer.

The Columbia Fire Department also responded to provide water rescue assistance, but the dog was already out of water by the time they arrived.