Local News - LOCAL ANIMAL LOVERS PROVIDE HORSE HAVEN
MULLICA TWP.--A group of animal lovers in Atlantic County has started a non-profit horse haven. Members of the South Jersey All Breeds Horse Rescue say they will try to save as many horses as possible from certain death.
Ellen Strack doesn't just ride horses as a hobby, now she's rescuing them out of love. "We've always loved horses," said Strack, "thoroughbred rescues are important, but we're gonna be open to all horse breeds...donkeys, mules, anything that's equine."...Continue Reading
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And that's what you'll find at the South Jersey All Breeds Horse Rescue. They just got three new horses, including a young sport pony named Willie, and an 18-month-old Clydesdale stallion, Eomer, from a so-called "kill pen" at a North Jersey auction. "We raised the money and paid their bail, which is their meat weight," explained Strack, "they're worth about $.77 a pound, we had to match that so the meat buyer couldn't take them."
The rescue wasn't supposed to start running until March, but the folks there said they had to step in sooner when learning the horses were up for auction and weren't bid on. While they won't be able to attend every auction, they say they'll try to save as many horses as possible through the rescue.
Volunteers help out a lot, and do everything from grooming, to nursing the sick and injured, to riding and training, to ensure the horses are healthy and possibly able to one day be adopted. "We train them so that horses that are placed are very gentle and easy to manage," explained Strack, "so they don't end up again at auctions."
With all the love and attention these horses now receive, it's hard to believe how close they came to certain death. Strack and her team believe the majestic creatures are appreciative. "They love us and they know they're safe here," said Strack, "they're very happy."
Happiness that the horses even seem to convey, "he loves that," the volunteers laughed as Eomer nuzzled their heads, "that's pure love."
The rescue is just getting started and is looking for more help. Anyone willing to donate time, services, money or items is asked to call (609) 965-0274 for more information.
