UC Davis Firefighters Train With Veterinary Experts in Animal Safety
It’s not your typical fire training, but it could soon become standard.
At UC Davis, firefighters are learning how to safely approach and handle animals, and how to read their behavioral cues during emergencies. Through hands-on sessions with different species, they practice recognizing signals, maintaining safe distances and applying basic handling techniques.
The training is part of a pilot course led by the California Veterinary Emergency Team, or CVET, at the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine, in partnership with the UC Davis Fire Department and regional fire agencies. The program is designed to prepare firefighters for emergencies that involve animals, both on campus and in surrounding communities.
This collaboration reflects a unique campus advantage. At UC Davis, firefighters have direct access to veterinary experts who understand animal behavior and care. That knowledge can make a critical difference in an emergency.
Animals are a constant presence on campus, from barns and veterinary facilities to research labs and family homes.
“It’s very common on campus to encounter animals,” said Fire Chief Nate Hartinger. “Most aren’t pets. They’re livestock, research or veterinary animals, and the risk of injury to responders or the animals can be significant.”
That reality is driving the department to expand how it prepares its crews to respond both on campus and in surrounding areas where wildfires or other emergencies could involve animals. While firefighters are trained to manage a wide range of hazards, animal-related incidents introduce an added layer of unpredictability to emergency response.
Conditions like fire, smoke and other high stress situations can significantly alter an animal’s behavior, making even familiar animals difficult to approach. Understanding those behavioral cues and knowing when to keep a safe distance can help prevent injuries for both the firefighter and the animal.
This pilot training program focuses on building that awareness. Through hands-on sessions with dogs, livestock and horses, firefighters practice approaching animals safely and applying basic handling techniques appropriate for emergency situations.
The effort is part of a broader collaboration between CVET and fire service partners to strengthen animal response during disasters. CVET, a state-funded program, coordinates veterinary care and supports emergency response efforts throughout California.
“This training has been an engaging way to learn about the needs of wildland fire personnel as well as how CVET can collaborate to further support animals and their families during disasters" said Dr. Briana Hamamoto, CVET Disaster Management Veterinarian.
Just as firefighters benefit from veterinary expertise, the partnership also helps CVET refine its training. By working directly with first responders, the team gains insight into scenarios firefighters might encounter in the field, enabling them to customize the training for practical application.
The training is still in its early stages, but interest is growing among fire agencies across the region. UC Davis Fire has completed its initial phase and is helping shape the program through feedback, with the goal of expanding it locally and eventually statewide.
“We’re always looking for ways to improve safety for firefighters and provide better service to the community,” said Hartinger. “This training supports both.”
For UC Davis firefighters, the training is expected to become a regular part of their preparation, ensuring they are equipped to protect not just people, but every life they encounter on the job.