On the 4th of July, WASART’s Technical Rescue Team responded to assist a horse named Happy who had become trapped in the back corner of her stall and was unable to stand on her own.
From the moment the call came in, volunteers began coordinating behind the scenes. Within minutes, responders from across the region were on their way.
When the team arrived, they found Happy lying in a tight corner of the stall with very little room to work. As she occasionally tried to stand, she would slide farther into the corner, making the situation even more challenging. Team members worked to keep her safe and prevent her from becoming more deeply trapped while other responders built the tripod and rigging systems needed outside the barn.
Using a large rescue tripod, rope systems, and a rescue glide designed for moving large animals, the team prepared to move Happy out of the stall. The veterinarian on scene gave Happy light sedation to help keep her calm during the rescue.
Working together, responders gently slid Happy onto the rescue glide and slowly moved her out of the stall, around the barn, and toward the waiting tripod. The entire operation required constant communication, patience, and careful coordination as every movement was made with her safety in mind.
Just as the team began preparing to lift her with the tripod, Happy surprised everyone.
She gathered her strength, pushed herself up onto her front legs, and then stood completely on her own.
The rescue team immediately shifted from lifting to supporting, giving Happy the space and assistance she needed while ensuring she remained safe and steady. After walking around for several minutes and showing she could stand on her own, she was able to return to her stall.
While Happy ultimately stood under her own power, that outcome was made possible by a team that was fully prepared if she couldn’t.
Large animal rescues are never the work of one person. They require trained volunteers, specialized equipment, careful planning, strong partnerships with owners and veterinarians, and a tremendous amount of teamwork.
We’re grateful for everyone who responded and for the opportunity to help Happy when she needed it most.
WASART is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization. There is never a charge for our rescues.
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