APRIL 3, 2026 – As hurricane-force winds and torrential rains subsided during a simulated exercise this week, the U.S. Army Veterinary Readiness Activity (VRA) Fort Bragg faced a worst-case scenario: a total power outage at their Role 3 Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) and a Military Working Dog (MWD) in critical condition.
The exercise, a vital component of the Installation Health Support Plan, tested the seamless integration between the Womack Army Medical Center (WAMC) Emergency Department (ED) and the Fort Bragg Veterinary Branch.
For Lt. Col Kimi Damassia-Rhoades, Commander, VRA Fort Bragg, the exercise was more than just a simulation; it was about reviewing protocols for MWD emergencies. “By simulating a real-world hurricane hit, we are testing our reliance on stakeholders across the installation to ensure our protocols are up to date,” Damassia-Rhoades noted.
The scenario focused on a MWD experiencing severe heat-related distress. With the veterinary clinic dark and lacking backup power, the Military Police K-9 handler and veterinary team were forced to relocate the patient to the WAMC ED, the only facility on base operating on emergency generators. The MWD handler watched in tense silence as the medical team fought to save the canine’s life.
Inside the WAMC ED, the atmosphere was a mix of intense clinical focus and unique collaboration. Animal Care Specialists worked alongside Combat Medic Specialists and WAMC Paramedics to stabilize the canine service member.
“The relationship between the veterinary side and the medical side is imperative,” explained Lt. Col. Nathan Chumbler a Fort Bragg First Year Graduate Veterinary Education instructor. “In an operational or disaster environment, we may not have the resources we need. Partnering with our sister units at the hospital ensures we provide the best care to the canine service member.”
The simulation pushed the medical teams to their limits. After arriving via gurney, the MWD’s condition spiraled: it suffered a seizure, and eventually, full cardiac arrest. The combined team performed CPR in accordance with RECOVER guidelines to resuscitate the patient.
For many on the team, including a Paramedic with 16 years of experience, the integration was a first. It provided a rare opportunity for junior Soldiers to build competence and confidence in a joint environment that mirrors the realities of the modern battlefield or a domestic natural disaster.
“In the military, working dogs are considered service members,” said Staff Sgt. Austin, Schultz, WAMC Paramedic. “Building these relationships now helps us know exactly what to expect when an MWD is brought to the ED for a heat injury or even a gunshot wound.”
For the leadership at Womack, this exercise validated a core principle.
“Readiness requires realistic scenario-based training,” said Col. Stephanie Mont, Hospital Commander. “This collaboration with our veterinary teammates ensures that our protocols aren’t just words on paper; they are proven capabilities. Womack is committed to ensuring that the clinical excellence we provide in this hospital extends to every service member vital to military operations, including our Military Working Dogs.” In the end, the exercise validated more than just a set of protocols. It was proof of a unified commitment: when the storm hits, no service member—two-legged or four is left behind.
Story by Keisha Frith
Womack Army Medical Center