Trapped Horse Saved During Unique Rescue by Rhinebeck Fire Department

The folks at the Rhinebeck Fire Department had their hands full this week, with firefighters and EMS crews responding to everything from a major mutual aid assignment to a complicated horse rescue that required hours of coordination between multiple agencies.

Busy Day for Rhinebeck Fire Department

According to the Rhinebeck Fire Department, the busy day started early Monday morning at 5:19 a.m. when crews were requested to provide mutual aid coverage for the Fairview Fire District while firefighters battled the large structure fire at the former Hudson River State Hospital property. Rhinebeck personnel remained on standby for approximately 13 hours before returning to the district.

As if that wasn't enough, firefighters were then called just after noon to assist the New York State Police with rescuing a horse that had become trapped inside a trailer.

Horse Rescue in Rhinebeck, NY

Horse Rescue in Rhinebeck, NY

When crews arrived, they discovered the horse had jumped over the trailer's chest bar and become entangled in the divider system and a tack trunk, leaving the animal unable to free itself.

As you can see from the photos, firefighters worked alongside veterinarians from Rhinebeck Equine and members of the New York State Police to carefully plan the rescue.

Horse Rescue in Rhinebeck, NY

After the horse was sedated, responders used specialized rescue equipment to lift the animal and safely remove part of the trailer divider system. The horse was then guided onto a rescue glide and carefully removed from the trailer while remaining under the watchful eye of the veterinary team.

Horse Rescue in Rhinebeck, NY

Team Effort in Dutchess County

The rescue took place near Buttonwood Farm, whose staff played a critical role in the operation by providing assistance and supplying hay bales that were used to help support the horse during the rescue effort.

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Thankfully, the horse is expected to make a full recovery and spent the night at Buttonwood Farm under observation.

Large animal rescues are often complex and challenging operations that require patience, specialized equipment, and careful coordination to protect both responders and the animals involved. Monday's rescue highlighted the teamwork between firefighters, EMS personnel, veterinarians, law enforcement, the horse's caretakers, and members of the local community.

In addition to the mutual aid assignment and horse rescue, Rhinebeck EMS crews also handled several medical calls throughout the district, making it an exceptionally busy day for local first responders.