As part of on-going educational opportunities for our SAFE volunteers and community, we have been offering presentations by various individuals and organizations throughout the year. Recently, we were pleased to have the Washington State Animal Response Team (WASART) join us.
WASART is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer organization that helps companion animals and livestock out of immediate crisis and dangerous situations. WASART is trained to help in situations such as if your horse is trapped in a well, your dog falls over a cliff, or your community needs help sheltering animals for short-term issues, like the threat of fire.
Jeff Dahl, DVM, and this expertly trained technical team arrived with their manikin horse “Joey”, their impressive tripod, and their well stocked trucks. To say that they are a well-oiled machine is an understatement. This team has spent hours upon hours training with each other to be able to work in the most challenging of situations.
We enjoyed an in-depth and often witty presentation from Michaela. Our community was very engaged and asked a lot of terrific questions. We were able to watch the process of moving a horse with their various pulley systems as well as glide sheets. They also showed us many of the tools that have been created over the years to assist in the rescues.
The highlight for many was watching the team as they positioned Joey under the tripod. They are well-versed in their communication, with each team member playing a significant role in raising the horse from the ground. While it happened relatively quickly for the demonstration, this team has been on 10+ hour rescues using these techniques.
We are grateful for the opportunity to have had these exceptional volunteers of WASART join us for the afternoon. Their dedication to helping animals out of immediate crisis and dangerous situations is remarkable. You can learn more about them at www.wasart.org
Stay tuned for new and exciting educational opportunities in 2025!
