In a groundbreaking and heart-pounding collaboration, the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine and the Purdue University Fire Department (PUFD) united their forces for a three-day Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER) training program. This unprecedented initiative brought together 35 dedicated individuals, a mix of veterinary professionals and fearless firefighters, all driven by a shared goal: enhancing their preparedness for equine emergencies.

The training was an immersive experience, spanning various elements, each designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to handle large animal emergencies effectively. The hands-on exercises took place at the Veterinary Farm, providing a realistic backdrop for their learning journey. The participants engaged in scenarios involving overturned trailers and animals trapped in perilous situations. These simulations were as intense as they were educational, preparing them for the unpredictable challenges they might face in the field.

But the real showstopper was the horse-caught-in-a-manhole simulation, which left everyone awestruck. Here, they used a lifelike horse mannequin to practice extracting large animals from life-threatening predicaments. It was an unforgettable experience, one that tested their mettle and honed their rescue skills.

What made this initiative even more remarkable was that it marked the first time Purdue University had ever hosted this kind of training. The university's commitment to preparedness and safety shone brightly, as it extended a helping hand to those who work tirelessly to protect and save the lives of animals in need.

At the helm of this innovative partnership was Robin Ridgway, the director of Environmental Health and Safety Compliance. She recognized the immense value in bringing together the College of Veterinary Medicine and the PUFD. The College generously funded the training, a gesture that not only benefited their staff but also had far-reaching effects on the larger community.

Dr. Rebecca (Gimenez) Husted, a true TLAER guru, took charge of the training. She emphasized the vital importance of teamwork and leadership in emergency situations, where every second counts. The joint participation of veterinary professionals and firefighters created a synergy that would prove invaluable in times of crisis, making emergency responses efficient and, most importantly, successful.

This initiative wasn't just about training; it was a testament to the incredible power of collaboration. It showcased how two seemingly unrelated fields—veterinary medicine and firefighting—could come together to ensure the safety and well-being of large animals in their most vulnerable moments. In the end, it was a tribute to Purdue University's unwavering commitment to education, research, and service, where the pursuit of knowledge meets the call of duty.