Horse Shelter Heroes – S4E38
This week at Horse Plus Humane Society was one for the history books. We faced some of our toughest legal hurdles yet, but if there is one thing you should know about our team, it’s that we don’t back down when lives are on the line.
Between organized protests and an overwhelming intake of over 50 horses, the shelter was buzzing with activity, raw emotion and a relentless drive to do what’s right. Even when the “good old boys’ club” tries to slow us down, your support keeps our trailers moving and our shelter doors open.
🎥 Watch the full episode here: 49 Saved from Slaughter – Horse Shelter Heroes S4E38
Standing Our Ground at the Auction
The local livestock auction officially banned us from conducting buyouts on-site, a move clearly designed to stop us from intervening in the slaughter pipeline. In response, we took to the streets!
Our team and dedicated supporters organized a peaceful protest right in front of Wilson’s Livestock Auction to shine a light on the mistreatment of these animals and the unfair ban.
While some law enforcement officers seemed dismissive of our mission, we made our voices heard.
We are currently working hard to obtain a formal dealer license so we can get back to business, but until then, we are relying on people bringing horses directly to us to keep them out of harm’s way.
A Massive Wave of New Arrivals
Despite the roadblocks, it was a massive week for rescues with over 50 equines entering our care through buyouts and surrenders.
The intake process was a sobering reminder of why we do this. We saw everything from severe respiratory issues and chronic lameness to heartbreaking cases of neglect. Many of these beautiful souls arrived with overgrown hooves, maggot-infested wounds and even embedded leg wraps that had cut off their circulation.
One particularly horrific case involved a horse suffering from a testicular hernia after a botched “backyard” castration at the auction. It is a heavy load to carry, but every horse that walks off our trailer is finally safe from the cycle of abuse.
Medical Miracles & Hard Goodbyes
Our veterinary team has been working around the clock to triage these new arrivals. We celebrated some wins, like a handsome seven-year-old black stallion who handled his castration and intake like a total gentleman.
However, the week also brought moments of profound sadness. For some horses, the years of neglect and untreated injuries were simply too much for their bodies to overcome.
In cases of moon blindness or severe internal infections where recovery wasn’t possible, we provided the final gift of a painless, dignified goodbye. It’s never easy, but we take comfort in knowing their last moments were filled with kindness instead of fear.
The Power of Your Support
We are currently preparing for potential legal battles to ensure our right to rescue remains protected, and the cost of caring for 50+ new residents is staggering.
From specialized medical treatments to the simple necessity of hay and grain, every cent counts. We are beyond grateful for our sponsor, Cell Yea, and for every one of you who has donated to help us navigate these stormy waters!
If you’re able to contribute, your gift today directly funds the legal fees and life-saving care these horses desperately need. Let’s keep digging that tunnel and showing the world that compassion always wins!
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: 49 Saved from Slaughter – Horse Shelter Heroes S4E38
Your donations and shares truly make a difference — one horse, one rescue, and one story at a time.