Barrington-Countryside firefighters and paramedics responded about 12:10 p.m. Wednesday, April 21, 2021 to a call for help to rescue a horse in the block of 100 West County Line Road in Barrington Hills.
Firefighters received a report that the horse’s leg was stuck in a hole in the ground, and was initially believed to be injured.
Firefly, An American Paint Horse, who is affectionately known as “Phoofie” found herself in a precarious situation, according to a statement on the Village of Barrington’s Facebook page. “I noticed she was down which is not normal for horses to do,” said resident Sarah Quinn. She called her son-in-law to help raise Firefly and they quickly discovered they needed additional assistance.
Sara Quinn called the Village of Barrington Hills Police Department, and Sgt. David Kann and Ofc. Brian Baird arrived on the scene. The police officers assessed the situation and called in the necessary resources.
“We were overcome with emotion. It was so nice to have the community support you. It was wonderful,”
— Sarah Quinn
The police department called additional resources, including the Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District, the Cuba Township Road District, and Hooved Animal Rescue & Protection Society. Firefly’s veterinarian and neighbors also responded to help.
“Due to the coordinated effort, the horse was uninjured which was nice to see,” said Barrington Hills Police Department Sgt. David Kann.
After Firefly’s veterinarian determined the rescue plan was safe, harness straps and a John Deere Compact Track Loader 331G from the Cuba Township Road District were used to raise her. “Everyone did such a good job. It turned out great. It was incredible,” said Quinn.
According to dimensions.com, the typical weight of an adult American Paint Horse is 1000 to 1200 lb (454 to 544 kg). Their shoulder height is typically 58″ to 64″ (147-163 cm). The rated operating capacity of the John Deere Compact Track Loader 331G is 3,100 lb or 1407 kg, according to the John Deere & Company equipment manufacturer.
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