Our Fire Rescue Unit works with the Police, the RSPCA and other specialist organisations to rescue animals in distress. In 2023, we were involved in 1193 animal rescues, up from 755 in 2020, representing an increase of 59%. These include:
Among the more unusual animal rescue incidents of 2023 were a goat stuck on a ledge, a dog with its head stuck in railings, and a cat with its paw stuck in a drain.
However, we also rescue many animals when we attend fires – for example, the fire at London Zoo in December 2017 where many animals were evacuated to safety.
It depends on the creature and the specific circumstances. Typically we will be asked to attend an animal rescue following a request from another emergency service or the RSPCA.
Contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999, or using their contact form. Their dedicated experts can provide best advice straight away, and will contact us directly if our involvement is necessary.
"Over the years, I’ve rescued snakes from car exhaust pipes, deer from a shopping centre, even a seal from the Thames. It’s more typical that we’ll be freeing cows or horses from mud, ditches and fences, or domestic pets who’ve become trapped due to accidents or fires."
