CASS COUNTY, N.D. (CCSO) – Cass County deputies responded to a rural Argusville (ND) address for a report of a horse stuck in the Sheyenne River on Sunday, August 24th.
Responding personnel were informed that the horse had become stuck in thigh-high mud and chest-deep water and could not free itself due to steep, cliff-like riverbanks. Upon arrival, deputies were joined by the horse’s owner, local citizens, and emergency responders who immediately began rescue efforts. During the rescue, a citizen placed a tow strap around the horse’s neck to help keep its head above water as the animal showed signs of fatigue. Due to the severity of the situation and safety of responding personnel, additional resources were requested, including the Argusville Fire Department, Valley Water Rescue, Pride and Joy Rescue, and veterinary support from the Casselton Veterinary Service.
Shortly after 8:30 p.m., the horse was able to move approximately 75 yards downstream, where the riverbank slope decreased, and the horse was successfully removed from the river. Soon afterward, the horse could stand and walk on its own.
The Cass County Sheriff’s Office would like to commend the horse’s owners, private citizens, including Nikky McLean and Mitch Goodmanson (citizen in the water), Argusville Fire Department, Valley Water Rescue, Casselton Veterinary Service, and Pride and Joy Rescue, for their collaborative work, which led to the safe and successful rescue of the animal.
