In August of 2014, Animal Control was called out to a Northern Bourbon County property to investigate 40 horses and 10 dogs that had been abandoned. Upon seeing the condition of the animals on the farm, Animal Control made the decision to seize the animals in order to get them the life-saving care they needed. 

But finding a place to house 40 horses and 10 dogs on short notice is no small feat. Officials asked P.A.W.S. to step in and help. 

The dogs were brought to the shelter to receive vet care and some TLC. They were emaciated, covered in mats, and showed signs of neglect. Several of the dogs in most need went to foster homes where they could recuperate in the quiet of a home environment. 

We were also able to find a temporary home for the horses while we could assess them and get them care. Sadly, one foal never had a chance to make it to freedom. He was euthanized due to a broken leg that had be left untreated for far too long and had become necrotic.  

The rest of the horses were luckier. They were all moved to a safe location to be examined and receive treatment. 

The condition of the horses was appalling. All of them were malnourished and many required extensive vet care. Several horses had open wounds and most suffered from rain rot. All of them were in need of basic care such as dentals and hoof trimming. Veterinarians monitored the horses daily to ensure they were receiving all the care they needed. Thus began the long road to recovery. 

As news of the incident got out, many people called to offer help and support. A major break came when the ASPCA awarded P.A.W.S. a grant for the care of the horses. Without their support, as well as the support from the community, P.A.W.S. would never have been able to provide the level of care these animals needed after their life-threatening ordeal. 

“This was the first equine case in which P.A.W.S. has been involved, and we couldn’t be happier with the results,” said P.A.W.S. Director Robin Vincent. “Everybody came together – P.A.W.S., the County Government, the Community – and worked cooperatively to help these animals.  It was all about getting them the best care and out of a horrible situation.” 

Despite the trauma endured by the horses and the dogs, there was a happy ending. All of the horse taken from the farm that day – plus two babies that were born in vet care – have been placed in new homes. The dogs also found wonderful new homes, including the 5 puppies that were born in foster care. Each one of these animals can look forward to a life that they most likely would never have experienced had not Animal Control and P.A.W.S. intervened. 

P.A.W.S. would like to thank the ASPCA, Logan Veterinary Services, and all the other people who came together to make this life-saving effort a possibility!