For the fourth year in a row, The J.F. Shea Therapeutic Riding Center and the Orange County Fire Authority collaborated to train firefighters in rescuing horses and large animals during emergencies. Over 140 firefighters attended the training to expand their knowledge and build skills through hands-on training with real horses. The need for this training is highlighted by the increasing number of wildfires and flash floods in California.

The partnership between The Shea Center and the Orange County Fire Authority was born after a terrifying incident in which a horse named Choco was stranded in a ravine. This incident led to the development of a training program for firefighters to learn how to rescue and handle horses and large animals during emergencies. The recent rescue of Deuce, a retired show horse, from a 25-foot embankment further emphasized the importance of this specialized training.

The hands-on training program at The Shea Center provided firefighters with the skills and knowledge needed to handle and rescue horses in emergency situations. With San Juan Capistrano having a high ratio of horses to people, these skills are crucial for first responders in Orange County. The training program has been highly sought after by firefighters and has been instrumental in preparing them for large animal rescues.