In the realm of duty, the responsibilities of a police officer extend beyond human welfare to encompass the well-being of all beings within their community. This sentiment rang true when a group of NYPD officers recently undertook a daring rescue mission to save a blind canine trapped in a pond.
This Halloween proved harrowing for Sparky, an 8-year-old border collie, finding himself ensnared in the icy depths of Baisley Pond in South Jamaica, Queens.
Upon receiving a distress call, officers Branden Williams and Marc Esposito from the 113th precinct swiftly responded to the scene, reported by WABC. Despite initially awaiting additional support, upon hearing the desperate cries of the stranded dog, they knew immediate action was imperative.
Esposito recounted to CBS News, “It was honestly really sad to hear… We couldn’t see him but we could hear him crying out, so once we heard that, we knew we had to do something, we had to jump in there.”
Navigating through the treacherous waters proved no small feat. Esposito described the challenges, “It was shallow, but it was so uneven so you’d take a step, and then another step and that next step you just sank all the way down until you’re chest high, neck high, so it was a bit of a struggle to get to the dog.”
The dramatic rescue, captured on bodycam footage, showcased their unwavering determination:
After receiving 911 calls of a dog drowning in Baisley Pond, Officers Williams & Esposito from the @NYPD113Pct responded and entered the frigid water to rescue Sparky, an 8-year-old blind Border Collie. Thanks to the quick-thinking officers, Sparky and its owner were reunited pic.twitter.com/kL3eOZGXWS
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) November 1, 2023
After a relentless effort, they reached the shivering canine and safely transported him back to dry land. It became evident that Sparky, with his clouded eyes, was blind. Despite his ordeal, he exhibited a gentle and friendly disposition.
Transported to the precinct, Sparky received prompt attention from Animal Care and Control. Veterinarians attended to him, addressing his hypothermia. Reunited with his grateful owners, who had reported him missing the day prior, Sparky is now convalescing in the comfort of his home.
Such acts of compassion resonate deeply, and the officers express their willingness to assist animals in need. Officer Esposito shared, “In the moment you think, if this was my dog, I wish somebody would help… It’s a really good feeling knowing that we saved the dog and it got reunited with its family.”
Officer Williams echoed the sentiment, affirming, “Definitely proud of what we did, and definitely would do it again.”
Gratitude is extended to these officers for their valiant efforts in rescuing this vulnerable blind dog. Let’s spread the warmth of this uplifting news far and wide!
