SPCA rescues 10 mini-horses

STRATHAM — On Sunday, Aug. 15, the Field Services Division of the New Hampshire SPCA assisted the New Hampshire State Police as they responded to a complaint of animal cruelty and conducted an investigation in Dalton.

The horses were living in unsafe conditions and the veterinarian on site stated that it would be in the best interest of the horses to be removed from the situation, according to an SPCA spokesman. The rescue team removed 10 mini-horses that were voluntarily surrendered. The horses range in age from 1 year to 16 years old and range in condition.

Now safe, they will begin their road to recovery, reports the SPCA, which will include costly medical tests for parasites and disease, vaccinations, farrier and dental care, as well as treatment for illnesses found and physical conditioning. The mares will also be tested for pregnancy.

The owners of the horses cooperated with authorities, allowing them onto the property with no resistance. “This seems to be a case of owners becoming overwhelmed and unable to care for the animals they have,” said Steve Sprowl, manager of field services at the New Hampshire SPCA. “They did the right thing for the animals by surrendering them now. We wish that the condition of the horses hadn’t been allowed to diminish this much before we were asked to help.”

“While it is very sad to see these horses compromised in this way, we are grateful that we were able to help,” said Lisa Dennison, executive director of the New Hampshire SPCA. “Dalton is nearly three hours from our shelter in Stratham, but when the NHSPCA is called upon to assist animals in need, we are always ready to help. This has been true since 1872 when we were founded to protect horses, and we continue to respond state-wide today.” The road to adoption for this herd will vary depending on their needs. Before being ready for a forever barn, they will receive medical care, a careful re-feeding schedule and as much time as the need to recover.

The New Hampshire SPCA is asking for the public’s assistance in caring for this new group of rescued horses. If you would like to help with the cost of care and to help insure their recovery, please make a tax-deductible contribution to the SOS FUND by going to www.nhspca.org. A direct link to the SOS Fund is http://www.nhspca.org/sos-donation-for-victims-of-animal-cruelty/

Gifts to the SOS Fund can also be made by phone at 603-772-2921 x102 or by mail: New Hampshire SPCA, PO Box 196, Stratham, NH 03885.