Animal Technical Rescue Training

UF VETS offers a variety of training opportunities to better prepare first responders and animal owners for technical rescue emergencies. Our courses are compliant with the most up to date versions of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1670 Standards for Search and Technical Rescue and NFPA 1006 Job Performance Requirements for Technical Rescue.

UF VETS Awareness Class

Awareness Level ATR

This is the foundation course for more advanced levels of our training program. This course has been designed to bring together various agencies in a community to aid in networking and connecting resources. Participants will get an overview of the need for animal technical rescue, resources to activate, how to assist rescue teams, scene safety in animal emergencies, and common techniques and tools used in  responses. 

Target audiences include:

  • Fire/USAR
  • Law Enforcement (e.g. Ag Law, Animal Control, Mounted Units, Sheriff, etc.)
  • Livestock Stakeholders (e.g. Extension Agents, Ranch Owners, Veterinary Professionals, etc.)

This course is available in a live format for up to 40 participants as a one day, 8-hour training and can be brought to your county or completed through our open enrollment opportunities. This training is recognized for 8 hours of Continuing Education credit from the Florida State Fire College and has been approved by the Florida Department of Emergency Management.

An online version of this training is available for those who cannot attend our live trainings. Learn more about the Online Awareness ATR Training here.

Contact Brandi Phillips if you would like to host or sponsor an Awareness Level Training for your county.

Operations Level ATR

Our 3-day, hands-on, intensive animal technical rescue training course covers both large and small animal rescue equipment and techniques using scenario-based training. Originally developed to support animal technical rescue teams in Florida’s seven domestic security task force regions, this training is available to all agencies/organizations interested in preparing for animal technical rescue emergencies. Training is delivered on location provided by the host agency and through open enrollment at venues including the Florida State Fire College.

This course has been approved by the Florida Department of Emergency Management and FEMA. The Florida State Fire College also provides 24 hours of Continuing Education credits for this training. Classes are capped at 21 participants to ensure safety and an intensive learning environment.

UF VETS Ops Class

Contact Brandi Phillips if you would like to host or sponsor an Operations Level Training for your agency/organization.

Technician Level ATR

Technician Level Training is currently under development. Please check back for updates.