Donations make horse mannequin a reality

Media Contact:
Jason Wright
jason.wright@cityofmiltonga.us
678-242-2523 (office)
770-825-3096 (cell)

MILTON, GA., Jan. 11, 2010 - Thanks to the generosity of Milton's citizens and business owners, the city's fire department has raised enough money to purchase "Randy," a 400-pound horse mannequin needed to help train the Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue Unit (TLAER).

The horse mannequin from UK-based The Big Beasts Company is, according to Milton Fire Lt. Bill Bourn, "probably the most important piece of equipment that we lack." It will allow Milton TLAER members to safely train without having to utilize a vet or a live horse. Additionally, training with the mannequin presents less risk of injury and can nearly eliminate danger.

Initially the TLAER unit considered purchasing "Lucky," an $11,000 mannequin made in the United States. However, unlike Lucky, the less costly Randy can stand on his own without the aid of a platform that would have cost more money.

The TLAER account is still open for citizens who would like to donate money to the fire department for more equipment, said Bourn. The unit still needs quick release marine shackles for its large sling, fleece pads for animal comfort and various veterinary medical supplies.

Bourn said interested citizens can donate money at any Wachovia location. However, the bank also handles individual fire station accounts, so contributors must be specific that their money is intended for the TLAER account.

"They need to be sure and specify that they want to donate money into the 'City of Milton TLAER' account," he said.

Citizens may also drop off checks at any Milton fire station.