The Denton County horse rescued Sunday after being stuck in the mud has died.
In a Facebook post, Unbridled Horse Therapy in Copper Canyon said their horse, Bella, was unable to make a successful recovery and passed away Monday morning.
"We at UHT are devastated by the loss of our beautiful Bella who we already loved deeply despite the short time we had her," the post read. "She will not be forgotten and has earned her Angel wings for serving our families and clients even for a short time."
Officials said they received a call Sunday morning shortly after 7 a.m. and later arrived at the scene, where they found the horse, laying on its side and unable to get up.
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Firefighters dug through the mud and underneath the horse so the rope could be applied and used to help get the animal out. Ropes were eventually ineffective and even at one point, a tractor was used. A winch was eventually used successfully.
A veterinarian was on the scene with medication and assisted in taking care of the horse.
One firefighter was submerged in the mud all the way to his waist to assist the horse and when trying to get out himself, was suctioned in and injured his knee. He was checked by medical officials.
Capt. Stephen Forrest with Denton County Emergency Services praised the collective work of volunteers and rescuers.
"Anything where we have to get together and work as a team and try and solve problems and difficult situations— we enjoy doing that," Forrest said.
