Maryland State Police Aviation Command Joins Training Exercise To Rescue Animals

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Official release

Source material from Maryland State Police. The wording below is the issuer’s statement.

Maryland State Police Aviation Command Joins Training Exercise To Rescue Animals

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September 17, 2026

(ABERDEEN, MD) – The Maryland State Police Aviation Command (MSPAC) received training to rescue animals during natural or man-made disasters.

A joint training exercise was held on September 9 for the Maryland Helicopter Aquatic Response Team (HART) comprised of the Maryland State Police, Maryland Army National Guard, Maryland Task Force 1 (TF-1), and Harford County Animal Control. The training, held at Aberdeen Proving Ground, focused on challenges associated with rescuing and transporting animals during emergency operations.

From ground-based instruction to hoist operations involving K-9’s, aviation crews and ground personnel received hands-on instruction in safely handling animals in stressful environments and around helicopter operations. These exercises strengthen Maryland’s ability to respond when disaster strikes.

During major disasters, specialized teams may be called upon to conduct rescues and evacuations in areas that may be inaccessible to traditional ground resources. Joint training among partner agencies strengthens coordination when resources are needed most.

Over the past few years, MSPAC has worked to expand its role in K-9 operations throughout Maryland, practicing with local and regional partners and their K-9s on deployments and hoist operations. Recently, MSPAC crews have also been outfitted with specialized equipment to assist injured K-9s during emergency transport.

Continued training among specialized teams and partner agencies ensure personnel are prepared to work together to protect lives, assist communities, and, when necessary, rescue the animals that become stranded.

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