ENUMCLAW, WA — An 800-pound Arabian mare named Willow was rescued Sunday, January 11, after becoming trapped beneath a partially collapsed bridge in Enumclaw, according to the Washington State Animal Response Team.

WASART said the horse escaped her pasture and fell into a hole nearly six feet deep, where a large wooden and steel beam pressed against her abdomen. The Enumclaw Fire Department was already on scene and requested assistance.

As responders assessed the situation, Willow reportedly began struggling and slid farther down into the hole, increasing pressure against her rib cage and making breathing difficult. A veterinarian sedated the mare to prevent further injury and allow rescuers to stabilize her safely.

WASART’s technical rescue team brought in a tractor to serve as a secure anchor point and set up two separate haul systems to control Willow’s front and back ends independently. This allowed crews to lift and reposition her body, reducing pressure from the beam. Team members stayed at the horse’s side to protect her head, monitor her breathing, pad the beam, and carefully reposition her legs. Hay bales were placed beneath her hooves to provide stable footing as tension was gradually released.

As the pressure eased and Willow’s breathing improved, the sedation began to wear off and she attempted to stand. With coordinated guidance from the haul team, Willow was able to climb out of the hole. She was sedated a second time so responders could safely remove the rescue straps without risking injury.

After a short rest, Willow received IV fluids and a medical assessment. Responders said she was sore and stiff but alert, breathing comfortably, and showing no signs of major injury. Within minutes, she was able to stand and walk on her own into a nearby arena.

WASART is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization that responds to animal emergencies across Washington. The organization says there is never a charge for its rescue services.