Firefighters rescue Dexter the dog who fell through canal ice after chasing ducks

Dexter, a young chocolate Labrador, fell through the frozen canal into freezing waters after chasing ducks.

Dexter had been out walking with his owner Kristie Davies along the canal with her friend.

Kristie called 999 around 11am after Dexter was unable to get out.

Kristie, 26, from Willenhall, said:

"I was so distraught, I've never cried so much in my life.

"Dexter ran across the canal to the otherside after chasing some ducks before he fell in.

"The ice along the edges was much thinner.

"We were shouting Dexter to get out but he couldn't.

"He was in the water for about 10 to 15 minutes before he started to lose his strength and go under."

Fire crews attended the scene minutes after Kristie had called.

Two fire fighters entered the water and pulled Dexter to safety.

Crew commander Bebbington, who had attended the scene, said:

"Three fire-fighters attended the scene with life jackets.

"We had to use a ceiling hook, a long pole with a hook on the end, to get Dexter out.

"We were able to hook onto Dexter's harness and pull him to safety."

Dexter was dried off after a homeowner nearby, who had helped Kristie, came out with a towel.

Kristie, who has had Dexter since he was a puppy, added:

"Dexter's fine now. He's home, had a sleep and is warm in front of the fire."