Deputies Save Drowning Dog From NY River by Helicopter

When Cooper the goldendoodle jumped off a dock and ended up struggling in the frigid Seneca River, a team of New York deputies launched into action with a rescue mission that would make any action movie jealous.

Someone called 911 Monday evening after spotting the dog swimming in the river in Van Buren, New York. By the time deputies arrived, Cooper was fighting to stay afloat in the middle of the water, exhausted and losing his battle against the near-freezing temperatures.

Sergeant Jim Farley piloted the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office Air One helicopter so low over the water that it actually touched the surface. Deputy Levi Taylor, strapped to the side of the aircraft, leaned out and grabbed Cooper from the icy water while the helicopter hovered just feet above the river.

The entire rescue took just 15 minutes from the initial 911 call to pulling Cooper safely from the water at 6:15 p.m. The outside temperature was only 35 degrees, making the water dangerously cold for the struggling dog.

Cooper was shivering badly when they pulled him out, so deputies immediately flew him to a nearby ball park where Baldwinsville Fire Department personnel waited with warm blankets. The grateful pup was later reunited with his owner, who had reported him missing on Facebook earlier that day.

Sunny's Take

This wasn't even the first time these particular deputies saved lives from the water. Just weeks earlier, Farley and Taylor rescued another dog and two men from a marsh using the same helicopter. Their quick thinking and willingness to take risks for animals in danger shows the true heart of public service.

Cooper's owner's sister, Cassie Drake, confirmed the dog was in good health by Tuesday afternoon, no doubt recovering from his unexpected adventure with plenty of treats and belly rubs.