THE PEACEFUL countryside of West Wales saw a moment of high drama yesterday as the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service undertook a challenging and heartwarming rescue operation. Crews from Ammanford and Carmarthen Fire Stations were dispatched to a smallholding in Drefach at 9:24 AM on Thursday (Aug 29) where an adult horse had fallen and been unable to rise for several hours.
The horse, a magnificent animal standing 16 hands tall, found itself in distress, unable to regain its footing after a fall. The situation was serious, as prolonged periods of immobility can be dangerous for horses, potentially leading to life-threatening complications. The horse’s owner, deeply concerned for the welfare of their beloved animal, immediately sought help, and the fire service responded with urgency.
On arrival, the crews swiftly assessed the situation. They worked closely with the horse’s owner and a veterinarian who was already on the scene, developing a plan that would safely and effectively lift the horse back onto its feet. The operation was delicate; not only did it require the physical strength to lift a large animal, but it also demanded careful coordination to ensure the horse was not further distressed or injured during the process.
Utilising a tractor, the fire crews carefully executed the lift, managing to get the horse back on its feet. The horse, though understandably shaken, was successfully placed back in the care of its owner and the attending veterinarian, who monitored its condition following the ordeal.
The rescue operation, which lasted for over three hours, concluded at 12:31 PM when the crews departed the scene, satisfied that the horse was in safe hands.
The Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is no stranger to unusual rescues, but every incident carries its own unique challenges. Their professionalism and the successful outcome in Drefach stand as a testament to the skill and dedication of the service’s personnel.
This incident serves as a reminder of the vital role our fire and rescue services play in our communities—not just in fighting fires, but in providing critical assistance in a wide range of emergencies, both for humans and animals alike.
As the horse recovers under the watchful eye of its owner and veterinarian, the people of West Wales can take pride in knowing that their local fire and rescue service is ready to respond, no matter the challenge.
