nATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
How do you rescue a 410-pound manatee from a Florida storm drain?
The manatee was discovered by chance when city surveyors were conducting routine work.
WFLA News channel 8
‘It took a village’: Crews dig up road to rescue manatee trapped in Florida storm drain
“This was a heavily coordinated effort across multiple agencies and community partners, and everyone came together with great communication and collaboration to ensure the quickest possible response.”
Flagler news weekly
2025 Search & Rescue Responder Officer of the Year
Lt. Karl Froling of Flagler County Fire Rescue and longtime instructor for the UF VETS team was honored by the Florida Fire Chiefs Association as the 2025 Search & Rescue Responder Officer of the Year.
ABC7
North River Fire District holds large animal rescue class
North River Fire District and Technical Rescue Team 636 hosted the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine’s Large Animal Rescue Class.
TAMPA BAY TIMES
Florida needs veterinarians trained to respond to natural disasters. Congress can help.
Without a nationwide system for coordinating these efforts, it’s often chaotic, and animals suffer because of it.
WFTV9
Seminole County Fire Department rescues horse stuck in pond
The incident comes just months after Seminole County First Responders received special training to deal with animal rescues. The initiative was a partnership with the University of Florida – and it all came in handy this time around.
fIRE RESCUE 1
Fla. FD partners with university for large animal rescue training
Seminole County firefighters partnered with the University of Florida’s Veterinary Emergency Treatment Center for lifting techniques.
Firehouse magazine
Seminole County, FL, Fire Department Hosts Large Animal Rescue Training
The Seminole County Fire Department recently partnered with UF VETS to conduct an advanced training session focused on large animal rescues. In the past three months, Seminole County has responded to at least three large animal rescues through its Large Animal Rescue Team in the Geneva area.
Firehouse Magazine
Animal Rescues: Is the Duckling in the Drain the Modern Canary in the Coal Mine?
Brandi Phillips says considerations for safe animal rescue from storm drains, culverts and sewers have immediate and more far-reaching positive effects.
UFCVM
During Hurricane Season and Beyond, UF VETS Teams Offer Statewide Help with Animal Emergencies
One of only three veterinary college-based disaster response teams in the United States, UF VETS has served the state for more than 20 years. From treating animals that are injured or displaced during natural disasters, to safely rescuing animals from sinkholes or flooding situations, the team makes significant contributions to animal welfare and emergency management in Florida and beyond.
Huffington post
Evacuating or Sheltering with Your Pet During a Hurricane? Follow These Tips to Keep Them Calm.
Monica Torres – October 9, 2024
Practical tips for pet owners in advance of Hurricane Milton evacuations with advice from UF VETS Medical Director, Dr. Larry Garcia.
Police1
Danger Disguised as a Duckling
Law enforcement officers are often called upon by members of the public to assist animals in storm drains. Learn how to protect and serve furred and feathered friends without compromising officer safety.
WUFT
Planning for hurricane season? Don’t forget your pets.
Melissa Feito of WUFT interviewed Dr. Lawrence Garcia about preparing pets for hurricanes. Read this article for tips and a helpful checklist.
Journal of Veterinary Medical Education
Assessing Veterinary Practice and Practitioner Preparedness for Natural and Man-Made Disasters, Including COVID-19
Garcia, L.N., Stefanou, C., Huston, C., & Bell, S.A. (2021, September 1). Assessing Veterinary Practice and Practitioner Preparedness for Natural and Man-Made Disasters, Including COVID-19. Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, Advance Access Article.