The Patterson Fire Department Horse Rescue Unit is highly trained and springs into action to save the lives of horses in need of life-saving assistance. Putnam Technical Rescue Team Commander Joey Nickischer, a veteran of numerous horse rescues, emphasizes the importance of combined skills, equipment, and experience for a positive outcome in these situations.

Since 2016, the Horse Rescue Unit of the Patterson Fire Department has successfully saved the lives of over a dozen horses. Nickischer, a former chief of the Patterson FD, has been selected to teach a “horse rescue” class called Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue in Clovis, New Mexico. This opportunity allows him to work with various professionals, including fire departments, emergency managers, and the National Guard.

Nickischer views the invitation to teach the horse rescue class as an honor and recognizes the importance of well-trained firefighters in responding to horse rescue incidents. With the implementation of Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue training and standards in New York State, he aims to bring back valuable experience and knowledge to the Patterson community.