OHSTAR to the Rescue

Oregon Humane Specialized Technical Animal Rescue (OHSTAR) team members with animal first-aid and rescue training are available to respond to animal rescue situations that require technical skills in the Portland metropolitan area and adjoining counties.

From cats high in trees to dogs stuck on cliffs, OHSTAR uses technical rescue techniques—like rope systems, tree climbing, and high-angle extrications—to bring them to safety.

Types of Rescues

• Safely bringing down a cat stuck in a tall tree 
• Rescuing a dog stranded on a cliff or trapped down an embankment 
• Freeing ducklings from a storm drain 
• Locating and freeing a cat from a crawl space, vent, ceiling, or other tight spots
• Retrieving pets from areas and structures that can only be accessed safely using ropes, climbing equipment, and other technical rescue equipment

OHSTAR provides expert support to partner agencies and connects the public to vital animal resources. Trained volunteers also assist during natural and man-made disasters, and have been called upon to assist in large-scale national emergency operations.