Large animal rescue training paid off for crews who free trapped horse

Public Information Officer Jeremy Robshaw reported to Historic City News that on Thursday, firefighters trained in large animal rescue techniques successfully freed a horse that had become stuck in a muddy ditch next to a set of Florida East Coast Railway tracks.

The horse, reportedly part of a long distance, multi-state ride, was trying to drink water from the ditch on US-1 North when it lost its footing and slid in.

Crews trained in urban search and rescue utilized a mechanical advantage system to extricate the horse from the ditch safely.

A large sled, harness, and other equipment, specifically designed for large animals, was used to haul the horse out of the mud.

Fire Rescue was assisted by local emergency veterinarians, County Animal Control, and the Sheriff’s Office.

Just last year, Robshaw said the department received a grant to train and equip crews for incidents like the one they encountered yesterday.

The animal was taken to a local emergency vet following the rescue for additional care and evaluation.