KINGSTON — North Kitsap Fire & Rescue firefighters helped rescue a horse stuck in deep mud Oct. 22.

The horse’s owner was riding the 24-year-old mare, Penny, on trails near his Wyant Road home when the animal became mired in slippery mud, NKF&R spokeswoman Michele Laboda reported. After spending as much as an hour attempting to free her himself, the man called 911 for additional help at about 4:45 p.m.

Four firefighters responded from the district’s nearby headquarters fire station. Using a combination of ropes, crews were able to shift the horse’s position sufficiently to provide her with firmer ground. Shortly thereafter, Penny was able to use the more solid surface to regain her own footing.

Examined by a veterinarian after the rescue, the horse appeared to have come through the ordeal without serious injury.

Firefighters say they were glad to be able to help. Laboda pointed out that it isn’t always possible for firefighters to assist in animal rescues.  “If the effort puts firefighters in excessive danger or threatens their readiness to respond to other incidents, we might not be able to help.”

In this case, she said, crews could be a part of a happy ending for Penny and her owner.