Four years ago, Mark Teets and his sister Savannah joined the Williamson County Rescue Squad together, undergoing extensive fire and rescue training. Teets, who works remotely in IT and finance, became a live-in firefighter at Station 23 and gained experience through various specialized trainings and real-life calls. In August 2022, after a challenging rescue of a blind horse trapped in a swimming pool, Teets identified a critical need for a dedicated large animal rescue team in Middle Tennessee, as existing resources were limited and distant.

With full support from WCRS leadership, Teets and Lt. Michelle Strange trained extensively and established the Animal Rescue Team, securing grants for specialized equipment and repurposing an old rescue truck. Since its creation, the team has responded to multiple rescues involving horses, dogs, bulls, and other large animals, often collaborating with neighboring counties and local authorities. Teets finds deep fulfillment in his volunteer work, valuing the camaraderie and purpose it brings.