To The Telegram:
Many of you who read the Telegram may remember the previous articles that I have written in reference to neglect of horses that leads to starvation, medical issues and eventually death. As we all read last week, another horse has died due to lack of basic common knowledge of adequate care.
Between now and spring you will see and hear about many other horses that are suffering from inadequate amounts of feed, water, hay and routine veterinarian care. Most of the horses we hear about could have been saved. Many of you drive by places where horses are kept and never say anything. It is time that we all start reporting deteriorating conditions that we witness.
Some obvious signs that should be noticed especially this time of the year when the wind chills are so blistering cold is no shelter. Trees are not adequate in blocking the wind and snow, much less the freezing rain. Would you want to stand under a few trees while a winter storm is in effect? The freezing temperatures take an enormous toll even on a sheltered horse. Can you image a horse that is malnourished standing outside for days shivering, wet and cold? Not having the extra calories to spare because they are not given adequate feed, water and hay. They can literally freeze to death. Please start paying attention to the horses that you see as you leave for work.
Do you ever see hay? How about a water tub? A horse can not consume enough snow in the winter to sustain their daily required water intake.
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Do you notice a horse or horses that are there one day, but not the next? Are they being hidden from public view due to shame and embarrassment because their owner cannot afford them or doesn't have enough knowledge to care for them? Are they blanketed to hide backbones, ribs and hip bones, which could be a sign of neglect? If you see or hear of one of these situations pick up the phone and call the sheriff's department. They do care. Let's make a difference together.
-- Jane Russell,
Solon Springs
