|
In mid-August 2003, TRACS received a phone call from a Kelowna citizen who expressed concerns about ten horses that she and a friend had viewed in the local feedlot. Sure enough--amongst huge piles of fly-infested manure, bits of broken pipe, wire, and pieces of jagged cement--a small herd of horses awaited shipment to Fort Macleod, Alberta, site of Western Canada's equine slaughter plant. Of particular concern was the fact that two of the mares appeared to be heavily pregnant, and several of the animals were young foals between two and three months of age. In addition, a young mare with congenitally deformed legs was seen to be picking her way through the garbage in the feedlot...
Within two days, all ten horses were purchased and whisked away to safety. Veterinary evaluations were done, and TLC continues to be administered in large doses by the wonderful, caring people who have offered sanctuary to our feedlot horses.
|
The deformed legs on this young mare could have been surgically repaired in her first year. Her veterinarian has determined that she is pain-free, and can live happily in the proper environment as a companion horse. She will never be rideable. She bucks with joy when her meal arrives, however, and is very curious and friendly.
|
|
Permanent adoptive homes are needed for these animals....and, because many of them are shy of humans, we are searching for guardians with lots of equine knowledge and expertise. Although the horses have come a long way in the past few weeks, extensive training and patience will be required in order to help them recuperate from their past experiences. Allegedly they were amongst the many animal victims of B.C.'s fires...and ended up being dropped off at auction because a homestead had burned down.
|
|
For adoption information, please phone (250)768-4803 or e-mail us at tracs@shaw.ca. We are serious about finding the best homes possible for these animals, so please be prepared to provide a veterinary reference and to sign a firm adoption contract if you would like to proceed.
Donations of hay, straw, grain, and cash are gratefully accepted! Some of the horses may be staying with us over the winter and will need veterinary attention, as well as de-worming and hoof trims.
Most slaughter-bound animals don't get a second chance. We are glad that compassionate citizens intervened in this case, and that TRACS was able to help!
|
|
