“It was vital we got him to his feet as soon as we could.”
Rescuers Race Against Time to Save Trapped Horse in Muddy Field
When the RSPCA received a distress call about a collapsed horse in a remote field in Kent, England, they had no idea just how challenging the rescue would be.
RSPCA Inspector Cora Peeters and Animal Rescue Officer Chloe Wilson arrived at the scene, navigating through the dark and uneven terrain. While some areas of the field were dry, others were knee-deep in mud. After a difficult search, they found the horse, later nicknamed Albert, lying helpless and hypothermic, unable to stand.
Realizing they needed expert assistance, the rescuers contacted Lingfield Equine Veterinary Practice. Despite multiple attempts, they couldn’t get Albert on his feet. Determined not to give up, they called for reinforcements, and Kent Fire and Rescue Service quickly dispatched their technical rescue crew.
“Poor Albert was really weak, and the vet was growing increasingly concerned for his condition,” Wilson told The Dodo. “It was vital we got him to his feet as soon as possible.”
Working together, the team carefully maneuvered Albert onto a board and pulled him free from the thick mud. Once on solid ground, he slowly regained some strength, chewing on hay but still unable to stand on his own. That’s when the firefighters gave him a much-needed lift, helping Albert finally rise to his feet.
After warming him with towels to restore circulation, the team transported Albert to a veterinary clinic, where he continues to recover.
“Albert has become a firm favorite with our staff at the hospital,” said Rachel Atherton, director at Lingfield Equine Veterinary Practice. “He’s enjoying a cozy, warm bed out of the wind, rain, and mud while he recovers.”
Thanks to the dedication of his rescuers, Albert now has a second chance at a safe and happy life.