Print

Last weekend more than 130 neglected Polish Arabian horses were rescued from Canterbury Farms, a horse-breeding farm in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland.

A local vet and animal control officers, along with assistance from several groups including The Human Society of the United States (HSUS) and The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) assessed the horses’ state of deteriorated health before removing them from the farm, which was itself in a dilapidated state.

The herd was found in an extremely malnourished condition, and in vital need of medical and dental attention.

Canterbury Farms’ owner operated the place basically by herself with only part-time care. Yet, despite not having the means to properly care for the horses or the grounds, she continued to breed them.

All the horses showed signs of malnutrition. On many, their ribs could be counted through their skin by just looking at them. Others had jutting hipbones and parasites while lacking the necessary vaccinations to keep them healthy.

The horses have since been relocated to equine rescue organizations and private facilities to receive much-needed nutrition and medical care while a criminal investigation develops.

Image: Courtesy of HSUS