Humans aren’t the only ones seeking medical care in the aftermath of severe weather.

Seven horses injured when a tornado ripped through a horse ranch in central Oklahoma on Monday are being treated at Oklahoma State University’s Veterinary Medical Hospital by a team of veterinary students and staff including Dr. Daniel Burba, whose home north of Stillwater, Oklahoma was hit by a different tornado that pushed through the area same evening.

After receiving a phone call from a veterinarian in southern Oklahoma, the OSU veterinary specialists at the only veterinary college in the state prepared for the arrival of five injured adult horses and two foals.

All seven animals are expected to live.

“This was the first time I’ve seen animals injured in a natural disaster,” said Dr. Amanda Plunkett, who moved to Oklahoma last August. “I enjoyed being able to help the victims and their families.”

Burba said that being able to help in a time of tragedy is very internally satisfying.

He said that with the OSU facility being an instructional-teaching hospital, that teamwork is critical.

“This is a good learning experience for the students,” Burba said.

Veterinary students were paired with each of the seven injured horses and are responsible for helping provide them with care.

Melissa Nelson, a fourth-year vet student, is helping one of the two most severely injured horses, a 17-year-old stallion that has multiple fractures to his face and head.

“He has been a great patient,” Nelson said. “I’m just happy to help with his injuries.”

Fellow fourth-year vet student Cameron Smithee helped with triage of small animals following the 2013 tornados that pushed through Moore and surrounding communities.

The OSU Animal Relief Fund was established following those 2013 tornado’s and helps cover the costs of animal victims at no expense to the owner as long as funds are available.

Thursday, Smithee cared for the other severely injured horse, a 15-year-old quarter horse mare with a month old foal at her side.

The mare suffered a large laceration to her right leg, underwent surgery Wednesday and now has a cast on while healing up for the next two to four weeks before going home.

“We had to work as a team when seven horse came in,” Smithee said. “It is really neat to see how people come together or fall apart. I think we came together.”

Bitton writes for the Stillwater, Oklahoma News Press.