The Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island recently hosted a Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER) training course for 27 participants from Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. This intensive full-day program brought together first responders, veterinarians, horse owners, and veterinary students to develop practical skills for handling horse emergencies. Led by experts from the University of Guelph and TLAER INC., the training included lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on rescue simulations using life-like horse models and specialized equipment.

Participants learned safe animal-handling techniques, emergency halter creation, and practiced rescues in various challenging scenarios such as overturned trailers, animals trapped in mud or water, and entanglements with farm equipment. The course aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively in high-stress situations, ultimately helping to prevent injury or loss of life for both animals and rescuers.