Equine Rescue, Los Angeles County Fire Department Station 130

Excessive heat is not only taking its toll on people, it is taking a direct hit on animals that are in need of shade and adequate water and cooling in the Antelope Valley. Record breaking temperatures for over a week have peeked and hopefully we will see some cooling. Nevertheless firefighters and rescue personnel caution people about the heat and to never leave pets or animals in confined spaces without adequate cooling and nourishment. 

Last week the Los Angeles County Fire Department Heavy Rescue Team at Fire Station 130 was summoned to help a veterinarian lift a horse who was in distress in triple digit temperatures. Rescue crews used a sling devised by UC Davis and a block and tackle to try and raise the horse into a standing position. The horse weighed approximately 800 pounds. I am unsure if the horse survived since it was extremely ill. Contact Fire Station 130 for further information.

Also during the Fourth of July celebration animals do not do well near loud fire work displays. Just a note of caution. We also have increased risk of wildfires with all the heat and up-coming fireworks so we will be ever vigilant this coming week. Photo copyright Jeff Zimmerman 2013.