Somewhere in the depths of someone’s driveway sits dad’s good, old, trailer, or perhaps there’s a storage unit housing a camping trailer your family has outgrown? If it’s in good shape, about 20-feet long, sleeps a few people, and needs a new home, the Horse Emergency Evacuation Team is interested.
Since 2003, the non-profit organization has assisted fire and police departments, the California Highway Patrol and the Sheriff’s Department providing emergency services for large animals including horses, cattle, llamas and more to move them out of harm’s way when there’s a wildfire or other natural disaster.
Volunteers work with Cal Fire, the SLO County Fire Chiefs Association, County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol on ongoing training programs that include the incident command system, Red Cross disaster services, first aid/CPR, horse handling, trailer handling, fire safety, large animal rescue and horse triage and first aid. All at no cost to the agencies.
HEET works with veterinarians, feed stores, ranchers, fairground officials and local feedlots to ensure all evacuated animals receive the best care possible. Animals are monitored at emergency shelters by volunteers who remain on site, and they need a new trailer to house those volunteers.
To donate a trailer, call HEET at: (805) 466-7457. HEET can also use help in communications, transportation, billeting of animals, education, registration of large animals, clerical help and fundraising assistance. Donations for needed equipment are appreciated, and new volunteers are always welcome.
