Watch CBS News

River The Dog's Journey Started With Icy Rescue

DENVER (CBS4) - Bob Henry's walk in the park turned out to be a lifesaver for this puppy.

River, an 80-pound Rottweiler, could have died if it wasn't for some dog lovers who spotted him.

Dog Rescued RIver
River (credit: CBS)

It was cold and snowing lightly in Bible Park in southeast Denver earlier this month when Henry spotted River stuck inside the frozen water in the canal in the park.

"He was submerged. His hind quarters were in the creek, and his front paws were on the bank. Bcouldn't get out," Henry said.

He and two others who were walking their dogs sprang into action.

One pulled the dog's legs out.

"I ran out and got a blanket," he said.

They took River to the Denver Dumb Friends League.

Veterinarians said River may have been hit by a car before getting into the water, which resulted in the vets amputating one of River's legs.

A couple from Highlands Ranch adopted the dog on Friday. The DDFL said they didn't know about River's traumatic experience.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.