Drifting dog stranded on ice patch rescued from North Saskatchewan River

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services rescued a stranded dog on the North Saskatchewan River on April 22, 2026. (Facebook/EFRS)

Edmonton firefighters are urging the public to be wary of their pets around water after one dog took an unplanned morning cold plunge on Wednesday.

The dog was seen stranded on a drifting patch of ice on the North Saskatchewan River just after sunrise.

It was quickly approaching the Tawatinâ Bridge around the river bend when Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) took to the water.

After many “good boys,” crews were able to grab the dog and bring it to safety at the Capilano Bridge just after 8 a.m.

The dog is now with the city’s animal care and control team.

“The North Saskatchewan River is dangerous year round. We urge Edmontonians to keep pets leashed near embankments and on low-lying trails near access points into its water,” an EFRS social media post said.

Owners whose pets become stranded or fall through the ice should call 911.