When Animals Are in Crisis, First Responders Face the Risk
A distressed animal can turn an emergency into a dangerous rescue. A proposed mobile app being developed by the Rotary Club of Modbury Golden Grove Inc aims to give police, fire, ambulance and rescue crews practical guidance when every second counts.
Club Project Lead Alan Howard-Jones is leading the initiative, which builds on a concept developed by Rotarian Carol Frawley, the project’s Emergency Services & Wildlife/Veterinary liaison. Consultation with emergency services, veterinary and wildlife experts is informing the project.
“Our first responders can face difficult decisions when animals are injured, trapped or distressed. We want to put practical guidance and specialist contacts at their fingertips so they can assess risks and make safer decisions,” Mr Howard-Jones said.
The need is clear
- Training gaps: A 2015 survey of 156 Australian responders found 81.8% reported no formal large-animal rescue training. Three-quarters of untrained respondents would attend training if offered.
- Emotional impact: An international study first published online in 2025 found 57% of 227 professional and volunteer respondents said an animal-related emergency or disaster incident had affected their mental wellbeing.
- Rescue demand: NSW SES conducted more than 67,000 animal rescues during the record flood year of 2022.
- Physical risk: Animal contact caused approximately 23,380 hospitalisations across Australia in 2021-22, including about 5,030 involving livestock.
The Rotary First Responder Mobile App project will provide species-specific hazard information and links to specialist assistance. Planned for iOS and Android, it will be shaped by frontline consultation and pilot testing.
“This is about helping the people who protect our communities return home safely, while improving outcomes for animals. The app will support existing emergency procedures and specialist services,” Mr Howard-Jones said.
Project information: www.rotaryfirstrespondermobileapp.org.au
