More Than 90 Horses Rescued From Tennessee Farm
"We found Tennessee Walking Horses, Spotted Saddle Horses, quarter horses and other cross-breeds roaming the property and overcrowded in a dank barn. Almost all of the horses were shockingly thin – more like taut skin pulled over a skeletal frame than the robust, lively creatures they should have been. Many hung their heads in apparent weakness and stood motionless on thin, wobbly legs. Some of the stronger horses eagerly vacuumed down mounds of fresh hay that had been laid out by rescuers," said Scotlund Haisley, senior Director of emergency services for The HSUS.
The rescue mission was the coordinated effort of the HSUS, the Cannon County Sheriff’s Department, he Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Volunteer Equine Advocates, the Tennessee State Fairgrounds, members of the Middle Tennessee State University equestrian team, A Place to Bark Animal Rescue and other local equine handlers and veterinarians.
"Today marks a new beginning for these animals, who can now begin their journey to healthy, happy lives," said Leighann McCollum, Tennessee state director for The HSUS. "This rescue would not have been possible without the outpouring of support we received from local horse lovers willing to come to the aid of these neglected animals."
The horses will now be cared for at an emergency shelter by the HSUS, United Animal Nations and local volunteers until their health improves and they are able to be transported. Once they regain their strength, they will be moved to local rescue organizations for re-homing.
