New England Horse Surrenders at Record High

Due to the high costs of feed, hay and stabling amidst the poor economy, the MSPCA is seeing record numbers of horses being surrendered from throughout the states of New England to their Equine Center at Nevins Farm in Methuen. In 2007, the non-profit organization received only 21 surrendered horses, but this number has climbed to 70 horses for 2009, and 2010's figures do not look any more encouraging: last week they received 5 horses in just 2 days.

"We have not seen a continuous stream of surrendered horses like this before," said Melissa Ghareeb, Nevins Farm's Barn Manager. "Horse owners are struggling, horses are suffering and our resources are dwindling. We need our supporters now more than ever, in any way that they can help."

Each horse at the Equine Center costs approximately $320 per month to provide basic care, but this figure rises considerably if any specialty medical treatment is required. 28 horses are currently being cared for at the center, with a monthly running cost of almost $9000 for the basic care of the horses alone. A further 17 horses are being cared for by foster carers.