Stranded dog rescued from raging waters of South Fork River

LINCOLNTON, N.C.,None — A dog is safe and warm after being trapped for 24 hours in the raging waters of the South Fork River.

Neighbors called for help Wednesday when they saw the animal couldn't make it out on his own near a walking trail on Laboratory Road.

The South Fork Fire Department coordinated the swift water rescue.

Lincoln County's water rescue team found the dog stuck on a low head dam surrounded by fast currents and waters more elevated than normal because of Tuesday's rain.

SLIDESHOW: Stranded dog rescued from river

"We approached slowly, took our time. We talked to the dog approaching it at the point of exhaustion. It was just hanging on," said South Fork Fire Chief Greg Lowrance.

Finally, the animal was scooped up in a blanket and was carried safely to shore.

The dog was taken to a local animal hospital to be treated for a head injury and possible hypothermia.

Officials said it looks like she will be OK.

The rescue team said this was the perfect situation for training. "The procedures are very similar, gains and losses. It's good training with it being a dog, good opportunity to get on the river. You have to be in the water to do this training," said Lowrance. "I was extremely pleased with the outcome we had today."

Channel 9 received a call from a viewer after reporting the rescue that said the dog belonged to him. Hunter Hartman said the dog's name is Lady and that his family has owned her since she was a puppy.

Lady is 13 years old.

WSOC