By Helena Wegner
The Charlotte Observer
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, Mass. — A black Labrador struggled in rushing water as rescuers tried to save her from a cranberry bog culvert in Massachusetts, a video shows.
Authorities responded to the trapped dog named Zena at about 5:15 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, at Great Brook Farm State Park, the Carlisle Police Department said in a Facebook post.
“The dog owners were very distraught and we all feared the worst,” police said.
Wooden planks were used to slow the water in the culvert, allowing rescuers to see the dog struggling to stay afloat, WCVB reported.
A pike pole was then used to pull the dog out by her harness after seeing her “5 feet below the land surface,” the news outlet reported.
The dog was rescued after about an hour, police said.
“We are all grateful for the outcome and happy to have been able to help,” police said.
Now police report Zena is on the mend.
“Her dog parents report she is doing well and she continues to feel better!!” the department said in an Oct. 9 post.
Police did not immediately respond to McClatchy News’ request for more information on Oct. 9.
Cranberries grow on vines in bogs, which are often flooded in water before being harvested.
“A series of dams and water control structures are used to control water levels for irrigation and to flood the bog during the harvest,” according to the town of Carlisle.
Multiple trails run through the park and around the cranberry bog, which are popular spots for dog walks.
However, people and dogs are not allowed on the bog.
“Footing can be uncertain, foot traffic can damage the cranberry crop, and agricultural chemicals are periodically used on the crop,” officials said.
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