Boca Fire Rescue Saves Dog From Lake At Century Village

Shih Tzu rescued after jumping into 7-foot-deep lake at Florida condo complex

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Boca Raton woman's Shih Tzu named Star ran out of her unit, bolted through the parking lot, and jumped into a 7-foot-deep lake at the Century Village condominium community. The woman called 911 but could not safely enter the water herself due to concerns about wildlife and hazards. Boca Raton Fire Rescue crews arrived quickly and a captain removed his shoes to enter the lake and retrieve the dog, who had been in the water for about 15 minutes.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the importance of first responders and community support in emergencies involving pets. While the owner could not safely enter the water, the quick action of the fire department prevented a tragic outcome. It also raises awareness about potential hazards, like wildlife and cold water, that pet owners should be mindful of in residential areas.

The details

Denise Kirschman said her Shih Tzu, Star, ran out of her unit when a door was left open and jumped into Lake Windermere, a 7-foot-deep lake on the Century Village property. Kirschman called 911 but could not enter the water herself due to concerns about potential wildlife and other hazards, like dead fish in the cold water. Boca Raton Fire Rescue crews arrived quickly from Station 53 and a captain removed his shoes to enter the lake and retrieve Star, who had been in the water for about 15 minutes.

  • On February 13, 2026, Star the Shih Tzu ran out of Denise Kirschman's unit and jumped into Lake Windermere at Century Village.
  • Kirschman called 911 immediately after Star entered the lake.

The players

Denise Kirschman

A Boca Raton resident whose Shih Tzu, Star, ran out of her unit and jumped into a lake at the Century Village condominium community.

Star

Kirschman's Shih Tzu dog that ran out of her unit and jumped into a lake at Century Village.

Boca Raton Fire Rescue

The fire department that responded quickly to the emergency call and rescued Star from the lake.

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What they’re saying

“People say, 'Oh, why didn't you jump in?' The mother would have died.”

— Denise Kirschman (bocaratontribune.com)

“I took anxiety pills because I was so freaked out.”

— Denise Kirschman (bocaratontribune.com)

What’s next

Kirschman said she has since adjusted her routine and avoids walking near the lake during outings with Star to prevent a similar incident from happening again.

The takeaway

This rescue highlights the importance of first responders and community support in emergencies involving pets. While the owner could not safely enter the water, the quick action of the fire department prevented a tragic outcome and demonstrated the value of having trained professionals available to handle such situations.