Horse Shelter Heroes – Special Edition – Lincoln County Seizure Part 2
When a call comes in about animals headed for an exotic animal auction, there’s no time to waste. Our team loaded up, hit the road, and braced for what we knew would be a long—and emotional—night. What we didn’t expect was just how many hearts we’d be bringing back with us.
🎥 Watch the full episode here: Horse Shelter Heroes – Special Edition – Lincoln County Seizure Part 2
A Midnight Caravan of Hope
By the time we rolled back into the shelter, the sun was long gone and the only lights guiding the unloading were the headlights from our side-by-side. (One day we’ll have proper barn power—thank you to everyone who donates to make that possible!)
One by one, animals began stepping out of the trailers:
- Miniature horses
- Mini donkeys
- Sheep and goats
- A very hairy pig
- Geese and chickens
- Cattle
- And—unexpectedly—parrots, turtles, and lizards
It was a parade of faces, all frightened, all exhausted, all needing help.
We filled the barn with fresh hay and clean water and tucked every animal into a safe stall for the night. Even the parrots and reptiles settled into our office, chattering and rustling as if relieved to finally be somewhere calm.
Creatures Great and Small
While horses are our specialty, rescue work has a way of surprising us. This was our first time rescuing lizards—and the first time we ever held some of these species. But if an animal needs help, we say yes. Every time.
And amid the chaos, one tiny baby horse stole our hearts. Watching that sweet little one step into safety made the entire exhausting night worth it.
Sunrise Check-In: A Barn Full of Survivors
After only a few hours of sleep, our team was back at the barn at sunrise.
And the best news? Everyone made it through the night.
They were eating, drinking, exploring… finally able to rest without fear.
We’re endlessly grateful for this barn. Without it, rescuing this many animals at once simply wouldn’t be possible.
The Work Begins: Exams, Documentation & Placement
By midmorning, the veterinarian arrived to conduct initial exams and help us document every animal for the Sheriff’s case. Each one needed an individual report—photos, condition notes, identification—an enormous task but an important one.
Then came the next big step: coordinating placements.
Amazing partner rescues stepped forward to help:
- Murray County Humane Society transported the two heifers and hairy pig to Christian Farms Rescue.
- They also took the turtles and geckos—lifesavers for us, since reptiles aren’t exactly our specialty!
- Carolina Waterfowl Rescue arrived to take in the birds, from waterfowl to parrots.
- Redemption Road Rescue, long-time allies, helped place several others and offered ongoing support.
This effort was a reminder of what rescue truly is: a team sport. Every organization, every volunteer, every donor plays a part in saving lives.
Safe at Last
As ownership of the animals was officially transferred to us, the reality sank in: without the kindness of donors and partner rescues, none of this would be possible.
Animals who were once bound for an exotic auction will now go on to live safe, healthy, loved lives.
And even though it was a long night—one filled with heavy lifting, paperwork, and precious cargo—our hearts are full.
Thank you to every single person who makes rescues like this happen.
You truly change lives, one animal at a time.
Be sure to catch the full episode if you haven’t already, and stay tuned for more incredible transformations and behind-the-scenes moments from Horse Shelter Heroes!
Want to help more horses like the ones in this episode? Visit the Horse Plus Humane Society website to learn how you can support rescue, rehabilitation, and healing.
Watch the full episode here: Horse Shelter Heroes – Special Edition – Lincoln County Seizure Part 2
Your donations and shares truly make a difference — one horse, one rescue, and one story at a time.