Christmas Rescue in New London Township
 
December 26, 2025
 

West Grove Fire responders were involved in helping to rescue a New London township cow named Norman on Christmas morning.

Poor Norman could not get up in the mud and spent a cold night when his owner reached out to the fire company for assistance. Norman is a Jersey weighing more than 1,600 pounds. With the assistance of a local vet who provided guidance and fluids for Norman, firefighters were able to use a strap and small tractor to roll Norman up onto his legs about 75 minutes after arrival.

There are experts in large animal rescue and we are fortunate to have a very well-trained unit associated with the Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company nearby. They were requested for this incident, but Norman was thankfully on his feet before their arrival.
 
Units: Engine 22-1, Squad 22
 
Mutual Aid: LAR 36, Utility 36, Brush 36, ATV 36
 
A local vet administers fluids prior to the rescue.
A local vet administers fluids prior to the rescue.
 
A small tractor and straps were used to roll Norman out of the mud and to his feet.
A small tractor and straps were used to roll Norman out of the mud and to his feet.
 
Food and water were a sign that Norman was doing well after his rescue.
Food and water were a sign that Norman was doing well after his rescue.
 
WGFC first responders are always known for their "bedside" care.
WGFC first responders are always known for their "bedside" care.
 
WGFC firefighters assisted in getting Norman unstuck from the mud in New London Township Christmas morning.
WGFC firefighters assisted in getting Norman unstuck from the mud in New London Township Christmas morning.
 
Straps are used to roll Norman out of the mud and to more solid ground.
Straps are used to roll Norman out of the mud and to more solid ground.