This video shows horses trapped in floodwaters near Nashville, Tennessee this week. Rescuers in boats were able to herd the horses, but it is very interesting to observe the horses’ behaviors in deep water and what instincts they have when dealing with this type of emergency. Here’s the video:
There are a few things that can be drawn from this video, and that is the horses did not seem in a hurry to get out of the floodwaters, and the black horse being led in shallow water actually seemed afraid to walk to dry ground. Watching this sort of thing reminds me of how important it is to have horses that are used to being caught and handled so that rescuers are able to help them. Can you imagine trying to catch a frantic or shy horse in these waters? It could result in people falling in the water, the horse getting hurt in underwater rubbish or wire, and who knows what else.
I’ve always heard you’re supposed to have a plan for fire, flood, and other emergencies. Keeping a five gallon bucket with a lid on it that holds halters, ropes, first aid kit, and maybe something to blindfold a horse with is a great idea.
I’m glad these horses made it to safety, and hope things dry out for the Tennessee folks soon!