Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/soccer-deer/

Firefighters are known for saving the lives of humans, and sometimes pets as well, but firefighters at the Savannah Fire Department, Station 7, have recently been recognized for rescuing a deer—a creature that’s perhaps a bit outside their wheelhouse.

The deer was located at the Soccer Complex in Savannah, Georgia. By the time these first responders got to the small buck, he was “extremely exhausted” to the point where he could hardly hold his own head up. He had the cords of a soccer net wrapped tightly around his antlers, face, and neck, and he was lying on the ground, too tangled in the net to move much.

Thankfully, the deer’s rescuers showed up in time to save it before it passed away from thirst, exhaustion, or exposure to the elements.

The ropes were too tight to simply untie, but the firefighters were able to cut them away. They used trauma shears, wire cutters, and a knife to safely remove the net from the deer’s head, neck, and antlers.

After his tethers were removed, the deer was able to get up and walk away, although the firefighters report that he was a bit wobbly at first due to exhaustion. We expect that there was some confusion involved too, since deer don’t regularly receive that kind of help from people. Suddenly being free after being trapped for so long might also have been a bit of a shock.

The deer was able to make his way off the soccer field and back into his natural habitat, where he will surely make a full recovery.

Since the incident was posted on Facebook, commenters have commended the first responders for saving an animal in need.

“Thank you for responding with mercy and compassion,” one person commented.

Another wrote, “That’s awesome! Thank you for saving this poor deer.”

We believe a thank-you is indeed in order. These firefighters are heroes in the work they do every day, but it’s extra-special when they go above and beyond the call of duty to be of service to another living creature. Thank you all!

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog