Frosty the horse was on the brink of death when discovered partially submerged in a frozen Lehman Creek in January. Thanks to the efforts of local communities and horse enthusiasts nationwide, Frosty has made a remarkable recovery and is now adapting to his new environment.
A resident found Frosty trapped in the stream near Cochin, Sask., and with the help of the village’s mayor, Mark Pattinson, and his friend Ed Scott, Frosty was rescued. Despite his dire condition upon being freed, Frosty displayed resilience and refused to succumb to his ordeal.
Following the passing of his owner, Frosty was in need of immediate care. Pattinson recognized the urgency for medical attention and reached out to several local horse owners without success until Leslie-Ann Smith, a local farmer, agreed to take him in. Smith vividly recalls the moment she first encountered Frosty, describing his emaciated and ice-covered state.
Smith and her husband took Frosty to Lakeland Veterinary Service for treatment, where he had to stay for a week due to extensive injuries, including a ruptured hernia in his left leg incurred during his escape from the creek. Frosty underwent multiple therapies and treatments, with significant financial support pouring in from various donors across the country, aiding in covering his medical expenses.
After weeks of recovery and ongoing veterinary visits, Frosty showed remarkable progress under Smith’s care. Initially withdrawn and subdued, Frosty gradually blossomed into a sociable and affectionate horse. He has since integrated well with other horses on the Smith farm and has even made public appearances at events like the Tony Cote Summer Games and horse relay.
Although Frosty’s past as a relay horse was discovered, Smith has no intentions of returning him to competitive racing, prioritizing his well-being and continued care. Frosty’s journey from near-death to local celebrity has touched the hearts of many, symbolizing resilience and the power of community support in saving lives, as emphasized by Smith’s acknowledgment of the collective effort involved in Frosty’s survival.