LAKE COUNTY, Fla — A Lake County animal enforcement officer is being hailed a hero after she dove into an alligator-infested swamp to rescue a trapped dog.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office says concerned neighbors spotted the dog clinging to a log on an island near Bassville Park on Friday.
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Neighbors say this swampy marsh is known to have a lot of alligators, and they were worried the dog wouldn’t be rescued in time.
Animal enforcement Officer Amy Riccio was the first to arrive at the scene and immediately started formulating a plan for rescue.
The sheriff’s office said Riccio entered the thick brush of the swamp without hesitation and used 2X4 boards to build a makeshift bridge to get to the island.
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She gained the dog’s trust and carried it on her shoulders back across the unstable bridge to safety. The dog was taken to the Lake County Animal Shelter until its owner can be located. The sheriff’s office said Riccio showed an excellent display of courage and act of selfless service.
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