HARRODSBURG, Ky. -- The sheriff of Mercer County, Kentucky, rescued one of his area's smallest residents from freezing to death Friday -- and helped him find a new home, to boot.
Roy and Laurie Jasper called Sheriff Ernie Kelty early Friday morning after noticing a kitten had fallen into the lake near their home. The fluffy feline climbed out of the water on its own, but its fur quickly froze to their boat dock.
The Jaspers, both of whom are over 75, did not think they could safely go outside to rescue it.
Kelty arrived and helped free the kitten by pouring warm water on it and melting the ice.
"At first, he had an attitude," Kelly said. "I probably would have, too, but then it seemed like he knew I was there to help."
The Jaspers adopted the kitten and named him Ernie after his rescuer.
That's one life down -- hopefully Ernie isn't in the mood for more adventures any time soon.
