BLYTHEWOOD – When a four-year-old bay mare, now named Lily, was rescued from a neglectful situation in 2012 by the Fairfield County Animal Shelter, she weighed only 450 pounds and was near death. That same year, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals launched an equine campaign called Help a Horse Day to create awareness and promote the protection of neglected and abused horses across the country.
To encourage the observance of Help a Horse Day, which was Monday, WIS-TV news anchor Dawndy Mercer-Plank traveled out to a Blythewood farm to film her noon program which celebrated Lily and members of the Hoof & Paw Benevolent Society – the group that helped nurse Lily back to health. They also found her a forever home on a family farm where, for the last nine years, she has been loved and cared for.
Today, Lily weighs 1000 pounds and enjoys a happy, healthy life.
“National Help a Horse Day has more than one purpose,” said Hoof & Paw’s Minge Wiseman. “This day is a time for equine organizations to highlight the work they do to save at-risk horses. And the day showcases how people can join them to make a difference in the lives of these abused and neglected horses.”
“Hundreds of horses in the Midlands are abandoned and receive little to no care,” sid Kathy Faulk, president of Hoof & Paw. Hoof & Paw needs the community’s support to sustain their lifesaving efforts. The group’s leadership encourages people to get involved.
To donate, volunteer or join Hoof & Paw, contact them on Facebook, on their website, or through email at [email protected].
