Burke, a 19-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse, was rescued in West Virginia after being found severely emaciated and neglected in a barn with two deceased cows. After his owner pled guilty to animal cruelty, Burke was taken in by the West Virginia Horse Network (WVHN), where he underwent extensive veterinary care, including treatment for Lyme disease and a respiratory infection. Despite his poor condition at rescue, Burke gained weight quickly and has steadily improved with proper nutrition, medical treatment, and rehabilitation.

Now fostered at Hoofbeats and Heartbeats Stables, Burke continues to build muscle and recover his strength, showing promise as a potential riding horse. Known for his gentle personality and affectionate nature, Burke is described as a “once-in-a-lifetime” companion who gets along well with people and other horses. WVHN is seeking adopters to provide Burke and other rescued horses with loving homes, highlighting the importance of adoption to support ongoing rescue efforts amid rising care costs.