Drama as Horse Falls Into 10ft Ditch – Firefighters Mount Rescue
It was a nail-biting morning for Hector the horse and his owner, Sarah, on Wednesday, May 26th. The 24-year-old Arabian gelding had plunged into a 10-foot deep ditch. Sarah quickly called a local vet, prompting a swift response from fire crews from Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst 1, and Redbridge.
Firefighters Use High-Tech Gear to Save Sedated Horse
The vet sedated Hector to ease his stress while the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service’s specialist USAR team rolled in with their Manitou lifting vehicle. After carefully securing Hector with lifting slings, the rescue crew hauled the pony out of the tricky watery ditch.
Expert Teamwork Brings Happy Ending
Jim 1, HIWFRS animal rescue advisor said: “With support from the vets at Seadown Equine, we were able to formulate a plan to extricate Hector, the 24-year-old Arab gelding from a challenging predicament.
“Hector was sedated to reduce his anxiety as the lifting strops were applied and then anaesthetised whilst being lifted out of the watery ditch.
“This was a particularly technical rescue with a number of obstacles to overcome. It demonstrates the benefit of years of investment in knowledge and skills for these incidents.
“Hector was reunited with owner, Sarah, who was extremely grateful for the efforts of all the team.”
Thanks to the expert teamwork and cutting-edge equipment, Hector was back on his feet and safe by midday. The crew packed up after a quick debrief, leaving behind one relieved owner and a well-saved horse.
