The Pennsylvania Animal Response Team (PART) consists of over four dozen animal rescue groups that provide direct response to emergencies involving domestic and farm animals. Founded by Victoria “Tory” Schadler, the Lehigh Valley group is part of the local 911 emergency response system and is on call 365 days a year. The volunteers are trained to rescue both small and large animals, including horses, from various situations such as fires, injuries, and accidents.

The Lehigh Valley group is close to purchasing an $18,000 articulated horse mannequin to help train local volunteers for horse rescues. The mannequin is a valuable training tool for simulating horse rescues and preparing volunteers for on-site rescues with live animals. The group trains monthly with various organizations and farms to enhance their skills in rescuing large animals, including horses.

Volunteers from the Lehigh Valley group also volunteer at the Mountainview Horse Rescue, specializing in rescuing horses from kill pens. The group has received grants and donations to support their training and equipment purchases. All volunteers are certified by National Incident Management and receive training in hazmat awareness and animal sheltering. To learn more about the Lehigh Valley CART and the Pennsylvania Animal Response Team, visit their websites at lvcart.org and paanimalresponse.org.