Saskatchewan Tow Truck Operator Saves Moose Trapped in Ice

Post by : Shweta

A tow truck operator in Saskatchewan is receiving acclaim for saving a young moose stuck in ice close to his hometown, aiding the exhausted creature to recover safely.

Clint Gottinger, owner of Rebel Towing in Kelvington, noticed the moose struggling in icy waters on his way to work on Saturday evening. He decided to stop and assist instead of proceeding with his towing duties.

Gottinger shared that witnessing the moose's exhaustion and vulnerability in the freezing temperatures compelled him to act. He decided that all other tasks could wait, making the animal's rescue his main focus.

The driver cautiously backed his tow truck near the ice edge and lowered the flatbed. Utilizing a soft recovery sling meant for towing, he tried to extract the moose without causing any harm. The animal seemed nervous but was too fatigued to put up significant resistance.

Wrapping the sling around the moose, he slowly inched it toward the truck deck using the winch. Local residents soon joined him, and together they successfully lifted the moose entirely out of the icy water and onto the tow truck.

After the rescue, Gottinger took the moose back to his home so it could rest and warm up. He called his wife on the way, telling her to prepare blankets for an unexpected guest—a moose.

Upon their arrival, the family covered the animal with blankets and allowed it to recuperate quietly in their yard. Gottinger remarked that the moose was incredibly weak and rested for hours before eventually standing up later that night.

The moose lingered around the family's property on Sunday, only leaving on Monday morning after showing signs of strength and stability. Gottinger affectionately named the moose “Rebel,” a nod to his towing company.

Photos and videos of the rescue spread rapidly on social media, garnering praise for Gottinger’s compassion and swift action. The story received thousands of interactions online, with many highlighting it as an endearing and rare moment.

Experts from wildlife conservation also weighed in on the rescue. Ryan Brook, a professor at the University of Saskatchewan, noted that younger moose often have a greater chance of recovery in similar situations, especially when temperatures are milder. However, he cautioned that animals might experience stress-related issues post-trauma.

Brook explained that rescued moose could develop capture myopathy, a condition leading to serious muscle, heart, or kidney complications due to extreme stress. He noted that these animals typically remain close to safe areas while recuperating both physically and mentally.

Despite the challenges, Brook indicated that the moose stood a good chance of survival as long as it continued to eat, drink, and rest properly after the incident.

Wildlife experts also reminded the public that large animals like moose can become dangerous when distressed. They advise reaching out to wildlife authorities during wildlife rescue situations whenever feasible.

For Gottinger, the mission was solely about helping an animal in need. He expressed that the story has brightened many people's days online and feels that these positive narratives hold significant value.

Ultimately, the rescued moose returned to its natural habitat after nearly two days of recuperation at the family’s residence, concluding what many in the local community deem an unforgettable rescue tale.

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