A desperate dog-owner from Ashford jumped into a frozen lake this morning to rescue two dogs.

Dani, 44, was out walking her dog along with her friend Jenny this morning.

The friends were out walking in the area when both their dogs, a Labrador and Alsatian-cross, walked onto a frozen lake.

Within a matter of seconds, the ice on the lake, also known as 'the moat', broke and the dogs fell into the freezing water.

The friends desperately searched for a way to rescue their pets, before Jenny decided to get into the water.

Dani told emergency services: “I was on the other side of the lake looking for a way to get closer to the dogs, and then I saw Jenny get in – I was so shocked and started shouting.

“Her emotions and love for the dogs just took over, but it was not the right thing to do.

“I dialled 999 as soon as I spotted her in the water. A passer-by helped me to direct emergency services to the lake from the road – and for that I am very thankful.”

Fortunately, Jenny and the dogs were able to get out of the frozen lake before rescue services arrived and paramedics took care of her.

Dani added: “My advice to anyone who finds themselves in this sort of situation is, don’t try to be a hero and end up putting yourself at risk – call the emergency services.

"Dogs are much more likely to get out of the water unharmed than we are.”

Kent Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to be careful around water, especially frozen lakes, in the current weather conditions.

“The water is often deeper than it looks and when it’s very cold, can quickly cause cold water shock, which can lead to tragic circumstance" - Leanne McMahon, KFRS

Group Manager for Community Safety at Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Leanne McMahon said: “Dani’s words are spot on, please don’t try to be a hero in this weather, always call 999.

"If you’re getting into unknown waters, especially if the water has turned to ice, it’s hard to see the hidden dangers and sometimes it’s not as safe as you might think.”

She continued: “The water is often deeper than it looks and when it’s very cold, this can quickly cause cramp and breathing difficulties known as cold water shock, which can lead to tragic circumstances.

"Many rivers and lakes can also contain hidden rubbish and debris such as shopping trolleys and broken glass which can cause injuries, often the water can be polluted which can affect your health."

Here are some top tips when it comes to dogs and water:

• Never enter the water – dogs are usually much stronger swimmers and will often manage to find a way out on its own.

• Avoid throwing sticks or balls near water for dogs

• Even dogs that like swimming can usually only swim for short bursts

• If your dog loves the water make sure you keep it on a lead to prevent it jumping into hazardous or unsafe areas.

• Remember the wet riverbanks, steep edges or jagged rocks can make it hard for a dog to get out of water, and it can be a slip risk for owners.

• Don't lean into water and try and lift your dog out - you could topple in.

• If your dog has struggled in the water it may have inhaled water and should see a vet, as dogs can drown after the event if water has entered the lungs.