Bruce County Hosts Animal Rescue Training

Large Animal Rescue Skills in Focus

Under hot and humid July weather, firefighters from Bruce County and nearby areas gathered in Mildmay, Ontario, for special training in large animal emergency rescue. This hands-on session was organized by Equine Guelph and supported by the Bruce County Federation of Agriculture (BCFA). It marked a return to Mildmay, where similar training was first held in 2018. 

The July 12 session offered vital rescue skills using life-sized mannequins, including “Rusti” the horse, to simulate real-life emergencies such as trailer rollovers and cast horses. Firefighters from South Bruce, Arran-Elderslie, Chatsworth, Severn Fire Rescue, South Bruce Peninsula, and Mildmay Veterinary Clinic participated. 

“Bruce County Federation of Agriculture (BCFA) was pleased to sponsor the recent training offered to firefighters with support from Rob Wells Trucking and Don Dittner Construction,” said Cossitt. “BCFA recognizes a need to support our rural firefighters with specific rural needs training resulting in 28 firefighters receiving the Equine Guelph, University of Guelph Large Animal Emergency Rescue (LAER) training. Thanks to South Bruce Firehall Mildmay Station and Dave West, Fire Prevention Officer/Health and Safety Training Coordinator, for providing the location and support for our attendees.” 

The training highlighted the use of equipment like rescue glides and webbing straps. Firefighters worked in teams, applying strategies within the Incident Command System to move Rusti safely up steep slopes—showcasing both strength and coordination. 

“The training offered by Equine Guelph was a huge success amongst Bruce and Grey County firefighters,” said Krista Tiernan, Fire Chief/CEMC for Municipality of South Bruce. “Your expertise and dedication made a significant difference in my understanding of Large Animal Rescue Training. The training far exceeded my expectations and proved to be incredibly valuable to emergency service personnel in the event of a large animal emergency.” 

“Our large animal emergency rescue program prioritizes the welfare and well-being of animals involved in incidents, while emphasizing the safety of those involved in rescue operations,” said Dr. Susan Raymond, facilitator of the Large Animal Emergency Rescue program at Equine Guelph. “We are over 10 years offering this important specialized training and we are committed to enhancing large animal rescue capabilities through education and practical training. We are fortunate to have an incredibly dedicated team.” 

Equine Guelph now heads to Nova Scotia and PEI in August for similar sessions. The next Ontario workshop is set for October 17 at Grand River Raceway in Elora. Registration is open for participants aged 18 and older. 

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