VIDEO: Avon Firefighters Help Elderly Rescue Horse Back On His Feet

AVON, CT — Avon Volunteer Fire Department crews helped rescue a beloved sanctuary horse this week after the 23-year-old Friesian gelding was unable to stand on his own.

Firefighters responded Wednesday morning, July 8, to US Horse Welfare and Rescue on Waterville Road to assist with lifting Jorrit, known as "Jo-Jo," after caretakers determined he could not get to his feet.

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Working alongside a veterinarian and the horse's caregivers, firefighters spent about an hour carefully lifting and supporting the horse until he could stand, wrote the AVFD on social media Thursday.

The effort was successful, and Jo-Jo remained on his feet after the rescue, according to the fire department.

"We've said it before: Many of our volunteers are huge animal lovers; seeing Jo-Jo back on his feet was a pretty special moment for everyone involved," the department said in a social media post

According to US Horse Welfare and Rescue, Jorrit was born in the Netherlands and came to the United States at about 4 years old.

He was surrendered to the Avon-based nonprofit in May 2020 after having previously been trained and competed as a dressage horse.

Today, Jo-Jo serves as a beginner dressage horse and participates in the rescue's therapeutic riding and lesson programs. The organization describes him as calm, well-mannered, and affectionate, calling him "a big cuddler" and saying his gentle temperament makes him well-suited for working with riders.

At 23 years old, Jorrit has exceeded the typical lifespan for a Friesian horse, which the rescue says averages about 16 years.

Because of his age, the organization considers him a permanent sanctuary resident and says staff takes extra care to keep him healthy and comfortable.

The animal rescue was one of 11 calls for service handled by the AVFD during 24 hours.

Department officials noted that volunteers regularly respond to a wide variety of emergencies, including smoke and carbon monoxide alarm activations, structure fires, motor vehicle crashes, lost hikers, and animal rescues.

As call volume continues to increase, the department said it is seeking additional volunteers and encouraged anyone interested in serving the community to learn more at AvonVFD.org.

To watch a video of the rescue, click on this link.

For more information on US Horse Welfare and Rescue in Avon, click on this link.