Kind stranger jumps into icy river to save dog without a second thought: 'Will forever be my hero'

Incredible video of a selfless man jumping into a frozen river to save a stranger's dog has won hearts.

UPDATED JAN 31, 2025

A man hugging a dog in the snow (Representative Cover Image Source: Pexels | Boris Pavlikovsky)

There is no greater pain and agony than seeing your loved ones suffer. Watching them juggle between life and death makes you feel helpless, while you yearn to ease their sufferings. In such a difficult situation, imagine a stranger stepping in as your savior—their kindness and selflessness bringing unexpected relief while restoring faith in humanity. Likewise, Chris MacRitchie, a total stranger to Moragan Cerasoli, without hesitation, risked his life only to save her dog, Arizona, from an icy river. The heartfelt video shared by Cerasoli on Facebook has gone viral, leaving netizens moved by MacRitchie's kind gesture.

A dog in the snow (representative Image Source: Pexels | David Pohl)

"This man will forever be my Hero!" the dog owner began, expressing her gratitude for saving Arizona's life. Meanwhile, as captured in the clip, MacRitchie jumped into the frozen river without a second thought, cradling Arizona in his arms before bringing her back to safety. Interestingly, the dramatic rescue of the dog was captured by MacRitchie's 15-year-old son, who was present at the spot, witnessing his father's heroic act firsthand, as reported by Sunny Skyz.

A man and a husky in snow (Representative Image Source: Pexels | Mikhail Nilov)

"Never told a stranger I love him so many times before. To some, this may just be a man rescuing a dog, but to me, it's a man rescuing an extension of my soul! The video of the incredible human who saved my girl!" Cerasoli wrote in the caption. Additionally, replying to someone's comments, she revealed that after being rescued from the icy water body, Arizona had a warm bath and has recovered well. Cerasoli shared, "She had a nice warm bath, a Brazilian blowout and is snuggled up sound asleep!"

A woman and a dog hugging (Representative Image Source: Pexels | Helena Lopes)

Reacting to the Facebook video, Tammy Lyn commented, "My heart! I hope he warmed up nicely and fast. And I hope Arizona recovers easily and beautifully in her loving home! So happy for you all!" Similarly, Marisa Pacetti appreciated MacRitchie and commented, "This guy deserves some recognition. Truly. So glad she was found and that there are still good people in the world." Madison Moran wrote, "Wow! Thank god! I would attach an AirTag to her collar just in case she escapes again! Glad she is home and ok." Janis Carrier commented, "Definitely an angel in the right place at the right time. Hope both rescuer and doggie are recovering well!" Krystle Martin wrote, "This is absolutely amazing! I am so glad your baby is back with you. This man is a hero. Seeing this made me cry happy tears for you."

On the other hand, Sarah Ann commented, "OMG this made me cry! What an incredible act of bravery! I hope they both are unscathed from being in that ice-cold water!" Stacia Wright wrote, "So very happy to see this! I pray they both warmed up quickly! He is definitely a hero! Where did they find her?" Elizabeth Jesdale, seemingly moved by the story, wrote, "An absolute miracle. I have been checking your page to see if she has found it yet... Wasn't expecting this. He saved her life, what an incredible human. I'm so grateful people like this exist." Tee Lowe commented, "A true hero! I’m glad your dog is home safe, and what a wonderful thing this guy did. A Happy Ending!"