Rescue
Stray dog spends 4 days stuck in middle of freezing cold Detroit River
I can't believe a little dog stared down coyotes like that for four days!
Colby Maxwell
04.05.21

The rescue of one dog in Detroit, Michigan, has garnered national attention as people find out just how incredible the little pup truly was.

Now named Miracle, it’s no wonder the name stuck after you hear exactly how the daring rescue played out.

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Near a popular scenic location off the Detroit River, one photographer captured something on camera they never expected.

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Out on the ice of the river was a little dog fending for its life! The dog was stuck on a sheet of ice in the middle of the river, and there was little anyone could do. A local shelter director named Patty knew that it was her responsibility to save the little life out on that ice sheet.

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Patty called local fire departments, the Coast Guard, and anyone else she could think of, but nobody was willing to help.

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Due to the nature of the daring rescue, there was too much risk or cost associated with saving the little dog, either from helicopter or boat. Despite the setbacks, Patty took matters into her own hands.

It was incredibly time-sensitive, as the cold water and hungry coyotes lurked nearby.

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The pup was likely chased out onto the ice by the coyotes and had gotten stuck. After a frustrating few days, one person decided they were going to help. Jude Mead became famous for his daring rescue of the stranded pup!

Jude knew that he was supposed to help! Taking out his airboat, he navigated the ice and went out looking.

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Jude found the pup near mud island not long after, bringing the four-day ordeal to a monumental close. As he lifted the dog onto the shore, Americans and Canadians alike cheered for the rescue and the endurance of the little dog!

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Once safe and in a shelter, the real work began.

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The dog needed to get warm and was severely dehydrated. On top of that, it has severe pancreatitis and needed lots of nutrients. The one bit of luck that played into the situation, however, was his matted fur. The severe matting resulted in a layer of insulation for him over the four-day-three-night rescue.

Little Miracle needs some treatment but had some good news on the horizon!

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After getting all the treatment he needed, the search for his family began. From the looks of things, he didn’t have one. He didn’t have a chip or collar, and nobody came looking. He needed a home!

One of the perks of being a famous dog is that everyone wants to adopt you!




A Canadian family saw the story and decided that he would make a perfect addition to their family. After Miracle completed all his treatment, he was able to go home with his new family in Canada.

“We are all so grateful for this happily ever after ending to this AMAZING story,” the post read. “Congrats Jude and family on the addition to your family! Happy life Miracle!”

Check out the rescue video below!

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