Horse rescued from illinois creek after overnight swelling

A horse was dramatically pulled from floodwaters in McHenry County, Illinois, over the weekend, thanks to the swift action of local first responders.

Rescue efforts underway as creek swells

Coon Creek near Marengo had overflowed its banks after recent storms, sweeping the horse away overnight Friday into Saturday.

Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts were called to the scene in the 22900 block of Anthony Road shortly after 6:00 AM Saturday.

Firefighters and sheriff's deputies worked together to locate the stranded animal, finding it standing in approximately 600 feet of floodwaters, about 15 feet deep in some areas, with no clear shore in sight.

A veterinarian and additional personnel were rushed to the scene, and a boat was deployed to reach the horse.

The veterinarian began providing critical care to the hypothermic animal on a small peninsula it had taken refuge on.

With the horse stabilized, swift water rescue technicians guided it across the raging creek using their expert skills.

Once safely on dry land, the horse was loaded into a trailer and transported to a nearby veterinary facility for further treatment.

One of the responders, however, was also rushed to the hospital due to exposure to the cold waters, though their condition was deemed minor.

As of Sunday morning, the horse remained under care but was showing signs of improvement, standing independently and starting to eat again.