Tragedy at Dean Park as dog drowns

Feb 5 2010 by David Wynn, Kilmarnock Standard

TRAGEDY struck at Dean Park, Kilmarnock, this week after a pet dog drowned in front of its helpless owners.

The stricken animal fell into icy water after it had been playing on the partially frozen pond.

The beagle battled for around 40 minutes to stay afloat but eventually slipped below the surface.

Horrified onlookers, including the dog’s two owners, could only watch helplessly as the tragedy unfolded on Monday afternoon.

A 17-strong team of firefighters were quickly on the scene but were unable to reach the desperate dog. By the time a water rescue team arrived it was too late.

The owners were comforted by park staff and didn’t want to speak to the press.

The tragic incident is being used to highlight the dangers of allowing animals onto apparently frozen waters.

In December the Standard captured a dramatic rescue operation at the exact same location after another dog had fallen into the water.

But unfortunately there was no happy ending this time round.

Kilmarnock fire station commander Stevie Logan said: “We were on the scene quickly but the dog was too far away from the bank for us to use the ladders. We just had to wait on the water rescue unit but by the time they arrived the dog had gone. It’s a tragic outcome but it reinforces just how dangerous it is for dogs to be out on what looks like frozen-over waters.

“It also has to be stressed that the Fire Service will not risk the lives of employees to rescue animals, so it’s vital pet owners take responsibility.”

An East Ayrshire Council spokeswoman also urged people to pay heed to the various signs warning of the dangers of going onto the water.