This Horse And Its Owner Endured Three Hours Of Muddy Terror Together

http://animals.viralnova.com/mud-horse/?mb=vnnl

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Nicole Graham, a mother from Melbourne, Australia, recently went for a leisurely horse ride along the beach with her daughter. However, the afternoon quickly shifted from a relaxing outing to a living nightmare. Graham's horse, an 18-year-old steed named Astro, ventured into unexpectedly treacherous mud and was followed by her daughter's horse before she could warn them. Graham was able to get herself, her daughter, and her daughter's smaller horse free, but Astro remained stuck.

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Graham spent 3 hours clinging to the horse as he continued to struggle.

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Newspix / Rex Features



At over 1,000 lbs, attempts to free the horse before help arrived only resulted in both becoming more stuck.

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Newspix / Rex Features



Once help arrived and she was freed again, Graham remained by Astro's side, comforting him.

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Newspix / Rex Features



They had to fight time to get the big guy out before the tide washed over him.

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Newspix / Rex Features



Fire crews arrived, assisted by veterinarians and a nearby farmer, who loaned his tractor.

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Newspix / Rex Features



Astro was sedated so he wouldn't continue exhausting himself while they worked to free him.

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Newspix / Rex Features



They tried several different types of equipment and even had a helicopter on standby. Nothing would budge in the mud.

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Newspix / Rex Features



Fire lieutenant Roger Buckle said the mud was "like quicksand."

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Newspix / Rex Features



Everyone was anxious as the tide drew in nearer and nearer.

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Newspix / Rex Features



Luck finally came with their combined efforts and Astro made his way out of the mire.

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Newspix / Rex Features

The tractor really came in handy.

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Newspix / Rex Features



Once he was 100% free, the poor guy collapsed in fatigue.

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Newspix / Rex Features



After a much needed rest, everyone was cleaned up and able to make their way back home.

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Newspix / Rex Features



The horse only suffered mild dehydration and will make a full recovery.

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Newspix / Rex Features



(via Daily Mail.)
Graham, who runs an equine dentistry business, owns over 10 horses. She says she's never had any issues like this arise over the 20 years she's been a horse owner. I'm just glad it turned out well for Graham and Astro.

Well that was one hell of a bloody ordeal! What a nightmare, it's so wonderful they both wound up safe and sound. Takes a lotta heart, everyone involved in that rescue is awesome. Especially mom and the horse!!

Awesome, heart-warming story. Wonderful that both eventually made it to safety unscathed.Kudos to all involved in rescue! :)

Wow! What a story that is! Thank goodness they got Astro out!