Every year, the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals rehabilitates and rehomes dozens of formerly abused and neglected horses. 2021 became a year like no other when 20 horses removed by the state were brought to the shelter in a single day. Everyone at MSSPA was up for this challenge, but it is a challenge indeed! Many of these horses need significant veterinary care, farrier work, and refeeding.

I am Riding to Rescue in memory of Diego and Flaco, two horses from the Neglected 20 herd who sadly had to be humanely euthanized after they came to the MSSPA shelter.  Diego was a young horse who was nearly 150 pounds underweight and suffered from untreated conditions that kept him from urinating or passing manure normally.  After an extensive veterinary evaluation and care determined that little could be done for him, an ethical decision was made that young Diego would be humanely euthanized.  On the same day that Diego was euthanized–just a few hours later–the emaciated bay gelding we called Flaco went down for a second time in less than a week and simply could not muster the strength to get back up.  In his late 20s and nearly 200 pounds underweight, Flaco’s strong spirit was not enough to overcome the extreme neglect he had suffered.  MSSPA staff and the responding veterinarian tried to get Flaco back on his feet, but it quickly became clear that he no longer had the energy to even attempt to stand.  Because of his age and poor physical condition, we made the decision that a quick and painless end was the kindest decision for Flaco.

Though Diego and Flaco have already received the gift of loving care and a quick and painless end, their herd mates are still in need of much more: hay, grain, veterinary and farrier care, and extensive training.  I am riding in memory of Diego and Flaco and in support of their whole herd.  A gift in support of my ride and these rescued horses would mean so much.  Thank you.

My goal is to raise $1,000 toward the campaign goal of $21,000 in 2021!