Manhattan, IL – Firefighters from the Manhattan Fire Protection District responded to an unusual but urgent call this week, assisting with the rescue of a horse that had gone down at a neighboring property, according to officials and the animal’s caretakers.
According to the Manhattan Fire Protection District, crews were called to help safely lift and stabilize the horse using a specialized large-animal rescue sling. The equipment allows responders to support an injured or exhausted horse without causing further harm, a process that requires coordination, precision, and training.
Photos shared from the scene show firefighters working alongside ranch staff as the horse was carefully secured in the sling and lifted using heavy equipment. Snow-covered ground and cold temperatures added to the challenge, increasing the urgency of the response.
The rescue took place at HHH Ranch in the Manhattan area, located in Will County, southwest of the Chicago metro. In a social media post, the ranch publicly thanked the fire district for responding quickly and professionally.
“Huge thank you to Manhattan Fire Protection District that came out to a call with us to help a horse that was down at our neighbors,” the ranch wrote.
The ranch also highlighted that the rescue sling used during the operation was purchased last year after community members helped raise $10,000 for the life-saving equipment. The post described the sling as “a gift that keeps on giving,” now helping others across the local community.
Large-animal rescues are relatively rare but high-risk situations, often requiring specialized tools not carried by all departments. Officials say the incident underscores the importance of community-funded equipment and inter-agency cooperation in rural and semi-rural areas.
The condition of the horse was not immediately released, but images indicate the animal was successfully lifted and attended to following the rescue.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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