Animals, like humans, are often vulnerable to the harsh effects of cold weather. During the colder months, they face the same risks of frostbite and hypothermia that humans do, making them susceptible to life-threatening conditions. That’s why it’s always heartwarming to witness the kindness and quick-thinking of people who go out of their way to protect and care for these creatures in such dire circumstances.

In one remarkable case, a farmer’s quick thinking and an unconventional solution helped save the life of a newborn calf facing the perils of freezing temperatures.

This event took place on a chilly morning in 2015 on a farm in Rossville, Indiana, where Dean Gangwer raises cattle. That morning, Dean discovered something unexpected on his farm—a baby calf, born during the night, was lying in the snow. His cow had given birth without his knowledge, and unfortunately, the newborn calf had been left on a cold pile of snow. As a result, it was struggling to survive, showing signs of hypothermia with barely a pulse, and it was unable to open its eyes.

Dean’s experience as a farmer gave him a good understanding of what needed to be done in this critical moment. He knew the newborn calf was at risk of severe hypothermia, which could lead to organ failure or even death if not addressed immediately. The first thing he needed to do was to warm the calf up before it became too weak to recover.

In a moment of inspiration, Dean realized that he had a rather unusual tool available that could help save the calf—his own hot tub. While it may seem strange, the farmer believed the warm water would provide a temporary solution to bring the calf’s body temperature back to normal.

Without wasting any time, Dean quickly scooped the freezing calf into his arms and brought it inside, where his hot tub was waiting. The tub, typically used for relaxation, would now serve a far more critical purpose. Dean’s instincts kicked in, and he took a deep breath before jumping into the tub fully dressed, holding the calf carefully to ensure it didn’t drown. The warmth of the water would help raise the calf’s temperature slowly and safely. For the next hour, both Dean and the calf, who he later named Leroy, sat in the water, with Dean providing support and ensuring the calf was secure.

Dean explained that he remained calm, taking the time to ensure the calf’s body temperature gradually increased, and he remained focused on keeping Leroy safe in the water. “We both came out warm, and I think the end story’s gonna be great for him,” he later shared.

After the hot tub session, Dean wrapped Leroy in warm blankets, using heated ones to keep the calf comfortable and aid in the recovery process. It was a delicate balance of care, warmth, and patience that made all the difference. Soon after, Leroy’s body temperature stabilized, and his energy began to return. The calf, once barely able to move, was now able to stand and walk. Within no time, Leroy was rejoining the rest of the herd, healthy and strong, thanks to the farmer’s quick thinking and an unexpected solution.

Though Dean’s hot tub rescue was a huge success, he humbly stated that this wouldn’t become a routine practice on his farm. While it was an incredible act of kindness and resourcefulness, he assured everyone that Leroy’s hot tub days were officially over. He planned for the calf to enjoy the outdoors in the warmth of the sun, rather than relying on the tub again. It was clear that this was a one-time emergency measure, and Dean would prefer the calf to spend its time grazing in the fields like any other healthy animal.

This story of Leroy’s rescue highlights not only the dangers that animals face in cold conditions but also the resourcefulness and compassion of those who care for them. It serves as a reminder that, sometimes, when a crisis occurs, it’s not the most traditional solutions that save the day—it’s the willingness to think outside the box and do whatever it takes to keep an animal safe.

Dean’s actions that morning show the extraordinary lengths to which some people will go to protect their animals. For many farmers, their animals are not just livestock; they are part of their daily lives and often viewed with great care and affection. Dean’s bond with his herd was clearly evident in the way he took immediate action to rescue the newborn calf, showing that empathy and innovation can combine to create the perfect solution.

While the story of Leroy’s hot tub adventure may be amusing, it’s also a testament to the lengths to which people will go when they feel responsible for the well-being of the creatures in their care. It’s easy to forget that animals, just like humans, can face life-threatening challenges when the weather turns extreme, but in these moments, it’s acts of kindness like Dean’s that can make all the difference.

Today, Leroy is doing well, and though his brief stint in the hot tub has ended, his survival story continues to inspire those who hear it. And for Dean, while he may have used an unconventional method to rescue Leroy, the outcome was worth it—he saved a life, and in doing so, demonstrated the power of compassion, quick thinking, and a little bit of improvisation in the face of an emergency.