By Andi Anderson
Responding to accidents involving livestock can be highly challenging, especially when large trailers, heavy animals and public safety risks are involved. Without proper training, these situations can quickly become disorganized and dangerous.
To address this need, Michigan State University Extension, in partnership with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, is strengthening a statewide network of trained livestock accident responders.
The Emergency Response to Accidents Involving Livestock program, known as ERAIL, provides specialized instruction for law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, veterinarians, and other officials.
The training focuses on scene management, volunteer coordination, public safety, and animal welfare. Participants learn how to safely remove trapped animals from trailers, understand chain of command procedures, handle large animals responsibly and apply humane euthanasia methods when necessary. Mortality management practices are also discussed.
Register for ERAIL Training
A special full day Rodeo Stock Edition of ERAIL will take place on May 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at SouthPoint Ranch in Bellevue, Michigan. This unique training addresses incidents involving rodeo animals such as bucking bulls, horses, roping steers, and calves.
These animals can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and require careful handling during emergencies. The program includes classroom instruction as well as hands-on animal experience. Participants must be at least 18 years old. Registration costs $75 per person or $60 per person for groups of two or more, which includes lunch.
An additional training session will be offered on May 11, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This evening workshop focuses on humane livestock euthanasia using a captive bolt device.
Register for Captive Bolt Device Humane Euthanasia Training
Topics include animal anatomy, identifying compromised animals, proper target placement, animal restraint, ownership guidelines and safety procedures. The fee for this session is $25 and participants must also be at least 18 years of age.
These programs aim to improve preparedness and ensure safer outcomes during livestock transportation emergencies.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, Livestock