A Shire cross became trapped in a bog in Dartmoor for more than two hours on Monday morning (12 October).
15.2hh gelding Inky was being hacked out in Two Bridges, Princetown, by his owner Sam Poulter when the accident happened.
Credit: Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
Ms Poulter noticed the ground had become boggy, but when she went to turn Inky round he lost his footing and slipped into a muddy pool of water.
Ms Poulter was unable to pull the seven-year-old from the neck-high muddy water, and called the emergency services. Firefighters arrived at 9.54am.
Credit: Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
“Initially crews attempted to pull the horse clear using a rope winch and strops connected to a tractor a local farmer had brought along to help,” said a spokesman from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.
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“The horse remained stranded so once a telehandler [crane/forklift] arrived, again provided by a local land owner, the horse was lifted and pulled to firm ground. Our thanks to the local community for turning out and helping.”
It took over two hours to rescue Inky, who escaped the ordeal without injury.
“I am so grateful to the rescuers, if it wasn’t for them I would have lost him,” Sam told local press.
“I was frantic but Inky was very calm, he is a sensible horse and when he was freed, he just stood up as if nothing had happened.”
Credit: Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
Sam, who suffered some bruising in the accident, regularly rides in the area.
She added that she will be sticking to the roads for the time being.
Credit: Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
