Being immersed in a puddle of mud that gradually subsides and subsides is probably not a pleasant feeling for humans as it is for animals. Confusion, fear and hopelessness are the most appropriate adjectives to describe the emotional state of a living being in this dangerous situation.
Nicole Graham, the heroine of this ordinary fairy tale with her daughter and Astro – the family’s 18-year-old horse, roam the coast of Avalon in South Australia.
As they walked along the beach, they suddenly realized that the ground under their feet had subsided very quickly. Soon the three were plunged into the mud. Nicole and her petite daughter managed to get to the hard floor safely. But the poor horse, with his massive body, was still stuck in the mud, unable to run away on his own.
When she realizes that Astro is in real danger, Carol returns to stay with Astro. She understood how scared their companion was of the mood. Astro’s eyes were filled with confusion, but luckily the owner was with Astro for the next three hours.
Meanwhile, Carol’s daughter quickly goes to seek help. And she was able to communicate with members of the Coastal Fire Department and Emergency Services team. They were soon present at the scene with a veterinarian.
The photos below will help you to visualize more precisely the progress and the efforts of all to save the horse from danger.
The first option used by the rescue team was to use a fire hose in combination with a towing winch to pull the 500 kg horse out of the mud. As the rescuers tried to bring the fire hose back under the horse’s stomach, Nicole was still at Astro’s side.
She wrapped her little arms around the horse’s neck so Astro knew he wasn’t alone, everyone was definitely doing whatever they could to get him out of the quagmire safely.
Nicole also whispered words of comfort and calm to him, while keeping the horse’s head on its feet.
To keep Astro and everyone safe, the horse had to be obedient and calm. So, during the rescue process, Nicole’s presence was the most effective sedative for Astro.
Members of the rescue team discussed, exchanged and tried all methods to help the horse escape. The team’s efforts and enthusiasm brought a sense of peace and hope to Nicole and her horse.
Farmers nearby, when they witnessed the scene, quickly dispatched a tractor to help them. Thanks to this strong traction, the team managed to get Astro out of the mud safely.
When the horse was able to put its forelimbs on the ground, everyone sighed in relief. Astro was rescued a few minutes before the tide reached.
The rescue team and Nicole were stained with mud, but everyone was smiling because they hadn’t given up hope. Their 3 hour vigilance saved a life.
Looking at the latest photos, after finishing the “match” everyone feels warm, especially when Nicole kneels beside her horse among everyone.
