Coast Guard Saves Dog From Icy Lake Michigan Waters in Frankfort [Video]

A lucky Labrador is safe at home with her family after an harrowing experience in an icy Michigan channel.

On Tuesday morning, the dog, Betsie Bay, fell into the Frankfort channel waters between Betsie Lake and Lake Michigan, in Frankfort.

Staffers at the U.S. Coast Guard station in Frankfort spotted the dog and suited up to rescue the pup from the frigid waters.

By the time the Coast Guard arrived, Betsie was struggling to stay afloat, according to Chief Petty Officer Alan Hara.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Tim Putnam swam nearly 200 feet in his ice rescue gear to reach the dog, before both were pulled back to shore by other members of the rescue team. While the Frankfort channel was iced in, the crew was away to push the ice away and get to her, the Coast Guard reported.

They used a rope and had the dog out in about 24 minutes, Hara said.

Betsie was taken to a Frankfort animal shelter and was reunited with her family, according to the Animal Welfare League of Benzie County. She is expected to recover from her chilly ordeal.

The U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes office posted this message on their Facebook page.

"Betsie Bay, the dog rescued by members of Coast Guard Station Frankfort, Michigan, is back home safe with her owner. Betsie wants to remind people or dogs recreating on or near the ice to always wear life jacket and tell someone where you are going because the ice can be ruff."