Sometimes heroes don't wear capes—they wear firefighter gear and brave freezing waters to save lives, even four-legged ones.

On Wednesday evening at Lake Manawa, the dedicated crew of Engine 51 from the Council Bluffs Fire Department demonstrated exactly what it means to serve and protect all members of our community. When a female German shorthaired pointer fell through the ice, these brave first responders didn't hesitate to spring into action.

The beautiful white and liver-colored dog, wearing a pink collar, was pulled from the frigid waters in what the department called a successful rescue operation. While the pup was suffering from hypothermia after her unexpected ice bath, the good news is that she was alive and receiving the care she needed.

The Council Bluffs Animal Control team quickly stepped in to provide the next crucial phase of care, transporting the grateful canine to an emergency veterinary clinic in Papillion, Nebraska. There, veterinary professionals could treat her for hypothermia and ensure she made a full recovery from her frightening ordeal.

What makes this story even more touching is the community effort to reunite this sweet dog with her family. The Fire Department shared photos of the rescued pup on their Facebook page, hoping to help locate her owner. Though the dog wasn't microchipped, she was clearly someone's beloved pet, and the entire community rallied together to help bring her home.

The incident serves as a beautiful reminder of the compassion and dedication shown by our first responders every single day. Firefighters train extensively for water rescues, and their willingness to put those skills to use for a frightened dog speaks volumes about their character and commitment to the community.

It's also a heartwarming example of how different agencies work together seamlessly when help is needed. From the Fire Department's swift water rescue to Animal Control's careful transport and the veterinary clinic's emergency treatment, every link in this chain of care came together perfectly.

The Council Bluffs Fire Department is asking anyone who recognizes this dog or knows her owner to contact them at 712-328-4646. They're eager to facilitate a joyful reunion and see this story have the happy ending everyone is hoping for.

This rescue also offers an important safety reminder as we navigate the winter months. Ice thickness can be deceptive and dangerous, not just for our curious canine companions but for people as well. It's a good time to keep pets on leashes near frozen bodies of water and to exercise caution ourselves.

But on this particular day, thanks to the heroism of Council Bluffs firefighters and the collaborative spirit of the community, one lucky dog got a second chance. It's stories like these that remind us of the goodness in our communities and the extraordinary people who choose careers dedicated to helping others—whether they walk on two legs or four.

Here's to the brave men and women of Engine 51 and all our first responders who make our communities safer, one rescue at a time.