The smoke hung heavy over the parched Texan landscape; a grim shroud for the devastation left behind by the wildfires. Amidst the charred remains of once-proud ranches, a team of dedicated individuals in blue shirts emblazoned with “Texas A&M VET” moved with quiet purpose.
Their initial purpose had been to aid the search and rescue dogs that had been sent to Canadian, Texas to look for people hurt and stranded in the fires. It wasn’t long before a greater need emerged, and the teams weren’t about to let the animals in dire need of help suffer.
According to the New York Times, volunteer veterinarians treated horses with singed tails, burned cows and even a two-week-old baby goat orphaned by the fire. The surroundings were devastated by the state’s largest fire ever and the most innocent of the victims involved needed emergency care.
Dr. Ramirez, a seasoned veterinarian with the Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team (VET), knelt beside a whimpering dog, its fur singed and matted with ash. Her gentle touch and soothing voice calmed the animal as she assessed its burns and dehydration. Nearby, Dr. Lee, a recent graduate, worked with a rancher to triage a herd of cattle, their eyes reflecting the trauma of the blaze.
When Texans need help, Aggies are quick to step up.
The Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team has deployed to the Texas Panhandle in response to the record-breaking wildfires in the area. Nine members of the team and five Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences students left campus on Wednesday, with additional team members joining today.
Along with supporting the local veterinary community, VET will help care for the 12 search and rescue dogs deployed with Texas A&M Task Force 1: tx.ag/VETSmokehouseCreek
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The days were long and arduous. Tents served as makeshift surgical suites, the hum of generators a constant reminder of the precariousness of their situation. Yet, the VET team persevered, fueled by their unwavering commitment to animal well-being and the resilience of the Texan spirit.
News of their efforts spread like wildfire itself. Local communities rallied, offering food, water, and even temporary shelter for the displaced animals. Children, their faces etched with concern, brought drawings and handmade cards, offering a touch of warmth in the face of tragedy.
The team witnessed the remarkable spirit of both the animals and the people. veterinarians were divided into teams treating herds of cattle and treating injuries so severe, some of the animals had to be humanely euthanized
And now, one week later, there are different kinds of injuries including respiratory problems from inhaling smoke and lots of damaged hooves. Many of the dogs have been left homeless and cats, chickens and turkeys still roam around trying their best to survive in the parched earth still smoldering in so many places
Their story, a testament to the unwavering bond between humans and animals, resonated far beyond the borders of Texas. It served as a beacon of hope, reminding everyone that even in the darkest of times, compassion and dedication can light the way towards a brighter future.
The team needs donations to provide care during disasters. To support the team’s mission, click here.
If you’re a resident who has been affected by the wildfires, the VET is ready to support cattle, horses, and other livestock, as well as companion animals with veterinary care at no cost.
(Photos via Facebook Texas A&M Vet)
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