EDMONTON – More than 100 starving horses seized by the SPCA in March from a northern Alberta farm have been placed in “forever” homes, said a volunteer who looked after the animals.
Donna-Rae Coatta said the last horse was placed in a new home in July.
“We’re thrilled with the choices we made,” said Coatta.
Each of the new owners had to meet strict criteria and agree they would keep their horses forever or else notify the rescue organization.
The Alberta SPCA seized the horses, all Arabians, on Feb. 26 from a farm in Andrew, Alta. Alex Hinz-Schleuter, 45, and Dale Huber, 55, were both charged with 12 counts relating to animal cruelty. Their next court date has been set for Nov. 17.
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Coatta said volunteers from the Rescue 100 Foundation, a group formed to care for and place the horses, checked references and visited the farms and stables where the horses would live.
The rescue foundation was established two days after the SPCA seized the horses and moved them to an auction to be sold. Coatta said more than 500 people volunteered their time, raised money or provided food for the horses and volunteers.
Melanie Abel of Edmonton spent hours brushing the horses and helping them get used to humans.
“My role was to socialize the animals,” said Abel, who sold T-shirts at an event in Edmonton to raise money for the horses’ expenses.
Coatta said the organization will stay together to help other animals rescued from abusive homes.
“Our organization will be there to help,” she said.
In a separate instance, Alberta SPCA seized 11 horses on Aug. 26 from a farm near Morinville.
“We believed they wouldn’t receive the necessary care they needed if they stayed where they were,” said Johnston.
No charges have been laid.
