A single dog was rescued after falling into a frigid creek in Exton, Chester County, on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025, in an operation involving the West Whiteland Fire Company and the West Whiteland Township Police Department.

The animal—now named Tinkerbell—was located and pulled from a wooded area behind a Wells Fargo Bank near Route 30 and Area Route 100. Responders arriving on scene found the dog in cold conditions near the water’s edge; multiple bystanders and local rescuers assisted in getting her onto dry ground before she was transferred to Luck Dawg Animal Rescue for care.

Sgt. Thomas Evans of the West Whiteland Township Police Department described Tinkerbell’s behavior at the scene: “When the officer got there, the dog was very skittish. You could probably tell it was outside for a period of time. We really didn’t know the dog was injured or not at that time.” Witness Alynn Decker and others who were present helped calm and move the animal, aiding professional responders until transfer to the rescue organization was possible.

Luck Dawg caregiver Mary Bauer, who accepted custody of the dog, said the team wanted to give the animal a hopeful outcome: “We decided to name her Tinkerbell just because we wanted her to have that fairytale ending.” Bauer estimated the dog to be between three and five years old and noted clear signs of a hard life: “She was probably a mom several times. We know that she’s in pretty bad shape by looking at her paws. She was probably neglected in some sort of way and, you know, she’s safe now.” Responders and rescue staff reported sores on her legs and several missing teeth; volunteers are monitoring her recovery while she rests at the shelter.

Officials emphasized that Tinkerbell’s immediate needs are being addressed at Luck Dawg Animal Rescue, where staff are evaluating her for exposure-related effects and longer-term medical needs. The rescue said she is receiving rest and basic care, and volunteers will continue to observe her as veterinary evaluations proceed.

The recovery on Nov. 10 was a coordinated action: firefighters and police officers worked alongside local rescuers and concerned citizens in a wooded, low-visibility area near a busy roadway. NBC10 Philadelphia documented the incident in a video report that included interviews with responders and rescue personnel, capturing the sequence of actions that led to the dog’s removal from the creek.

Common cold-weather risks for pets include hypothermia and frostbite, especially when animals are left outside for extended periods; ears, tail, nose, and feet are particularly vulnerable. Those conditions can complicate rescues and require prompt veterinary attention for rescued animals.

Responders on the scene used standard containment and extraction techniques to reduce additional stress to the dog before handing her over to the animal welfare organization. Communities can better prepare for winter animal rescues by training and equipping first responders in cold-water and ice rescue techniques, including use of specialized gear like flotation devices, ropes, and insulated protective suits to safely reach animals in frigid water or on ice.

Animal shelters and rescue organizations collaborate with local emergency services by jointly planning for disasters, coordinating evacuations and search-and-rescue operations, and setting up emergency shelters for displaced pets alongside human shelters. They often work directly with police and fire departments to ensure animals found during emergency responses receive timely care and humane transport.

Authorities reiterated that Tinkerbell is now under professional care and out of immediate danger. Luck Dawg staff and volunteers will continue medical assessments and rehabilitation efforts as they work to stabilize her and determine next steps, including possible veterinary treatment and eventual rehoming if appropriate.

Original reporting: view the original article.