The BC SPCA's Cruelty Investigations Department has seen an unprecedented rise in the number of cases involving horse neglect in late 2008 and early 2009. At this time the BC SPCA has more than 48 horses in its care - a record number for our charitable organization.
There have been several high profile cases in 2009, to read more about these cases, please click on a link below.
To learn more about the costs of care for these horses, frequently asked questions and how you can help, please read our information below.
Recent Investigations:
The Skeetchestn First Nations Reserve horses
One of our special constables found these emaciated horses on a First Nations reserve in Savona. 11 horses were seized from the reserve, and are now in BC SPCA care. Learn more about this investigation.
Langley horses
"Chewy" is one of the horses rescued in Langley. When she was rescued she was malnourished, had rain scald and was in need of veterinary care. This second photo was taken four months later and you can see that she is doing much better! Learn more about this investigation.
The McBride Horses
These poor horses made national headlines, learn more about their story.
The BC SPCA brought charges against the McBride horse guardians to Crown Counsel, read more.
To date, the BC SPCA has spent more than $123,000 to rescue, transport, board and care for these horses and sadly, the costs continue to rise. We need your support to continue our life-saving work.
1.What happens with the horses in our care?
The majority of horses that are seized or surrendered to the BC SPCA are in poor condition. Sadly, in many cases the animals have been left to starve and have not been treated for any health issues. The BC SPCA has the extremely difficult challenge of finding shelter for these horses. Currently, the BC SPCA only has room for FOUR horses at our Surrey shelter. We rely heavily on the goodwill of our supporters to provide foster homes and boarding facilities for these animals. The BC SPCA is responsible for covering the costs of care that may include; food, veterinary and farrier care while the horses recover from their ordeals.
2. What are the costs to the BC SPCA to care for these horses?
While these cases are under investigation, the BC SPCA's Cruelty Department is responsible for covering all the costs and all of the expenses incurred which can include food, veterinary care and boarding. Boarding costs range from as little as 5 dollars a day to as much as 15 dollars a day, depending on both the geographical location and season.
On average it costs $10 a day to keep these animals in foster care. Veterinarian costs also fall to the BC SPCA to pay for, and one case alone can cost several thousand dollars depending on the condition of the horse.
3. Are these animals up for adoption?
When these horses become available for adoption and if you are willing, and able, to adopt a horse you can search online for a horse in your area.
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1. Donate Today -- Your gift will help the BC SPCA rescue, care for and rehabilitate animals in need throughout B.C. |
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2. Donate Goods or Services -- Please send us an email if you have hay or other items to help the horses. |
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3. Foster a horse, and help them on their road to recovery. |
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4. Report allegations or abuse or neglect. |
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