EMERGENCY RESCUE: 27-YEAR-OLD NATHALIA EVACUATED AFTER A FALL INTO A BATHTUB

19.03.2026

A critical situation for an elderly mare

Nathalia, a 27-year-old mare, found herself trapped in a bathtub after an accidental fall. Unable to free herself, she became stuck in an extremely uncomfortable and dangerous position.

Firefighters initially intervened to extricate her. Despite this first rescue effort, her condition remained highly concerning.

A very fragile state of health

Following the accident, Nathalia was suffering from significant post-traumatic shock, was lightly sedated and had developed severe hypothermia, with her body temperature dropping to just 33°C.

In this condition, the mare was unable to stand up. The risk of serious complications was immediate, making a rapid intervention essential to stabilise her and organise her evacuation.

Rapid mobilisation of the teams

An ADT team of nine rescuers was mobilised to manage the situation.

Several key measures were put in place on site:

a thermal blanket was applied to combat hypothermia;
lifting straps and a rescue lifting pole were installed;
a coordinated rescue operation was organised despite extremely muddy terrain, which made movements and handling significantly more challenging.

A delicate lifting operation

The moment Nathalia was lifted back onto her feet required particular care and attention. Once standing, the teams allowed sufficient time for proper blood circulation to return to her limbs after her prolonged period on the ground.

With patience and caution, she was then safely guided to the transport vehicle.

Emergency transfer to a veterinary clinic

Following the intervention, Nathalia was urgently transported to the veterinary clinic in Ghent, where she is currently under medical observation.

ADT teams continue to monitor her situation closely in cooperation with the veterinary staff, from the initial rescue through to her ongoing care at the clinic.