The Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA) in Windham recently took in four horses rescued from deplorable conditions on a farm in Rensselaer County, New York. A total of nine standardbred horses were saved by Dorset Equine Rescue, with some found standing in stalls filled with five feet of manure, requiring the fire department to use the Jaws of Life for their release. After receiving urgent veterinary care, including gelding and dental and hoof cleaning, the horses were distributed among several rescue organizations, with four mares and one stallion, Gibson, arriving at MSSPA for further care and quarantine.

Despite their traumatic past, the horses have shown signs of recovery and friendliness, with one mare visibly relaxed upon arrival. While some medical issues remain, such as a serious eye disease in one mare, the overall prognosis is positive. MSSPA praised the collaborative efforts among regional rescue groups that facilitated the horses’ rescue and transport, expressing hope that these animals will soon find loving permanent homes.