Seven horses have been rescued from neglect in Okeechobee in just two months.
Equine Rescue and Adoption Foundation in Palm City barn manager Nancy Dunn says there could be a good reason behind the uptick in horses they are rescuing.
“To see as many from one location for neglect is unusual to see this large of a number this quickly,” said Dunn.
Savannah, Pumpkin, and Spice were rescued in September. Their owner, Bobby Travis, was arrested on animal cruelty charges. A fourth horse ERAF named Freedom died shortly after being rescued.
Bella was rescued from an abandonment case but had to be euthanized due to her grave condition.
Most recently, Molly and Red were also rescued from a neglect case where the owner is also facing neglect charges.
At ERAF, all of the horses are being nursed back to good health.
Dunn believes the rise in neglect cases they are receiving does not mean there is more neglect occurring. She believes it means people are taking more action.
"I think it’s the awareness of the public. I think it’s see something say something and people are absolutely doing that. I think they’re tired of seeing these horses that aren’t being addressed and they’re speaking up,” Dunn says.
She also thinks changes in leadership at Okeechobee Animal Control are proving to be beneficial.
“Now we have people out there that are listening.”
The costs of caring for all of the rescues are high. Dunn says some of the emaciated horses will need three times as much food throughout the course of their recovery.
Some of the horses also need expensive veterinarian care.
Dunn is asking the public to consider supporting ERAF on Giving Tuesday, held the Tuesday after Thanksgiving weekend.
You can donate on their website www.ERAF.org
There is also an open house at their Palm City location at 6400 SW Martin Highway on Giving Tuesday from 10-2.