For many, a bachelor party conjures images of celebration, camaraderie, and perhaps a few unexpected twists. But for one group of friends canoeing on the Minnesota River, the surprise that awaited them was far more heartwarming—and muddy—than anyone could have predicted. While enjoying a full day and night on the river, the group stumbled upon a sight that would turn their weekend around: a massive, furry head emerging from the thick shoreline mud. That head belonged to a senior St. Bernard named Ed, who had wandered away from home and become dangerously stuck.
The story, shared by Mitch White in a Facebook post, unfolded after his nephew heard a dog barking behind their canoe. Curious and concerned, the group turned around to investigate. What they found was a large dog buried up to his neck in dense mud, unable to move and clearly in distress. Although the bachelor party had been far from civilization and hadn’t seen another soul for some time, they didn’t hesitate to jump into action.
Using their canoe oars as makeshift shovels, the group began digging around the trapped dog, trying to free him from the mud’s hold. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, they also called 911 for assistance. Firefighters from the Carver Fire Department were soon en route, but in the meantime, the men focused on keeping Ed as comfortable as possible. They offered him water, which he drank eagerly, and shared some of their lunch meat and summer sausage to help restore his energy.
By the time Captain Shaun Cox and his team arrived, the bachelor party had already been digging for about 20 minutes. Cox described the scene to The Dodo, noting that Ed looked exhausted and deeply stuck. Despite initial concerns that the frightened dog might resist help from strangers, Ed proved to be remarkably cooperative and gentle throughout the rescue effort.
With the combined efforts of the firefighters and the bachelor party, Ed was eventually freed from the mud and lifted to safety. He was placed in the bed of a truck, where he could rest after his ordeal. I found this detail striking: even after being trapped and isolated, Ed responded to his rescuers with trust and calmness, a testament to both his temperament and the care shown by those who helped him.
Later, it was revealed that Ed had gone missing from his family’s property the day before. His owner had been searching for him, unaware that he had become trapped along the riverbank. The reunion was a joyful one, with Ed looking significantly better after a bath and a good night’s rest. According to CBS News, the family was relieved and grateful to have their beloved dog back home.
Captain Cox expressed his satisfaction that the story had such a positive ending. “I was happy to see them reunited,” he said, noting how much better Ed looked the following day. The rescue, while certainly out of the ordinary for a bachelor party, became a memorable and meaningful experience for everyone involved.
This story highlights the unexpected ways in which people can come together to make a difference. Whether it’s a group of friends on a weekend trip or trained emergency responders, the willingness to help a creature in need speaks volumes. The rescue of a dog stuck in mud may not be the traditional bachelor party tale, but it’s one that those involved—and those reading—won’t soon forget.
For those who love stories of dog rescues, river adventures, or community efforts, this uplifting moment serves as a reminder of the compassion and quick thinking that can turn a potential tragedy into a happy ending. It also underscores the importance of being prepared and responsive, even during moments meant for celebration.
