A mule that risked the possibility of death after being unable to get up was rescued by the Orange County Fire Authority in Trabuco Canyon.
A team of professionals that included a technical rescue team and an experienced veterinarian helped hoist the mule back on its feet after hours lying down. OCFA said the 20-year-old mule, named Eli, was suffering from colic that would’ve been fatal if he remained down for too long.
Eli’s owner and friends did all they could to get him to stand up again, but were unable to. That’s when they reached out to Station 18 for help.
The rescue team secured the mule by its legs and body, then used a large mat to pull him out of his stable. With a crane and truck, the team was able to get Eli upright and standing.
“Our dedication to service extends beyond protecting nearly two million people,” OCFA said in a statement. “We are proud to serve our entire community — including the pets, service animals, and livestock that enrich our communities and are cornerstones of Orange County’s history and spirit.”
Following the ordeal, Eli’s owner said the mule has been doing much better.