Early Monday morning in south Reno, a horse fell into a swimming pool after mistaking the cover for solid ground, prompting an urgent rescue by Washoe County Animal Services, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, and Least Resistance Training Concepts. Responders worked in the dark to attach large animal rescue equipment and keep the exhausted horse’s head above water to prevent drowning.

Using the homeowner’s backhoe, rescuers carefully pulled the horse from the pool, then covered it with blankets until it could be evaluated by Comstock Equine Hospital. The horse sustained only minor injuries and exhaustion. Animal services also located and reunited the horse’s owner with a second horse found roaming nearby.