Firefighters Learn Animal Rescue Skills Through Unique Program in California

San Juan Capistrano, California — For the fourth consecutive year, The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center collaborated with the Orange County Fire Authority to train firefighters in rescuing horses and other large animals during emergencies. Over 140 firefighters participated in this specialized training aimed at enhancing knowledge of horse handling and rescue procedures through hands-on experience.

In 2022, California experienced 8,024 wildfire incidents, as reported by Cal Fire, in addition to recent flash floods. These incidents underscore the need for first responders to safely and effectively evacuate large animals during emergencies. While calls regarding large animal rescues may constitute a small fraction of the 184,000 calls the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) responded to in 2024, they require significant resources, including specialized crews and potentially air support.

The partnership between Shea Center and OCFA was born out of necessity following a dramatic rescue in July 2021. Sarah Booth, the Communications Director at Shea, was thrown from her horse, Choco, after a bird startled the animal. After a lengthy search, Booth found Choco trapped in a ravine surrounded by rebar. A 911 call led to OCFA dispatching a team to rescue the horse, demonstrating the critical need for trained personnel for such scenarios.

“Our dedication to service extends beyond protecting nearly two million people. It also encompasses the pets, service animals, and livestock that enrich our communities,” said OCFA Chief Brian Fennessy. He cited a recent helicopter rescue of a horse named Deuce, who had slipped down a 25-foot embankment, as an example of the importance of specialized training.

During this year’s training held in late March, firefighters participated in three days of interactive training with live horses, allowing them to practice essential skills. “On the first day, only a handful of firefighters had experience handling real horses. By the end, all participants had gained confidence through various training stations focused on harnessing, trailer loading, and equine psychology,” said a training coordinator.

San Juan Capistrano boasts California’s highest per capita ratio of horses to residents, at roughly one horse for every 23 people, making this training particularly critical. The region includes numerous equestrian communities, such as Nellie Gail Ranch and Anaheim Hills.

“This training is vital to our operations,” noted Captain Danny Goodwin. “Having gone through this training, our newer members were able to apply what they learned during a recent rescue operation, ensuring everyone knew their roles.”

As the training program wraps up, many firefighters expressed gratitude for the collaboration with The Shea Center. “We’re fortunate to have this relationship,” added Goodwin. “It’s one of our most sought-after trainings, and we expect 140 firefighters to attend each year.”