A Forsyth County man is glad to have his best friend back home.

Daniel Davis said he was relieved Wednesday when he realized the cocker spaniel rescued Monday from an icy pond in North Forsyth was his.

Buddy is about 12 or 13 years old, Davis said, and had been missing since Jan 3.

"He’s doing good," Davis said. "I’ve got him all warmed up and he’s back to his usual self."

Forsyth County firefighters used a johnboat Monday to reach the dog, who had been treading water for at least an hour after he got stuck between large pieces of ice.

After they pulled him out, Buddy was taken to Orr Animal Hospital. He was not wearing a collar and did not have a microchip. At the time, officials said the dog’s owners would have seven days before he was put up for adoption.

Fortunately for Davis, it didn’t come to that.

Davis said he lives off Akins Way, nearly two miles from the pond.

"He usually doesn’t get out of the yard, especially when it’s cold," he said. "How he got a mile and a half away from here I have no idea because he has never left."

He said Buddy has a heart condition and takes medication that makes him thirsty. The dog likely went to the pond for a drink but fell through the ice.

Daphne Moore, who owns the boat used to rescue Buddy, saw him paddling in the frigid water and called authorities.

Davis said he was grateful to those involved in rescuing his canine companion.