September 27, 2006
Longmeadow Rescue Ranch Director Earlene Cole and a local veterinarian tend to an injured horse who was affectionately named “Willy” for his will to live. Although he requires medical attention, he is expected to survive.
42 horses in a trailer bound for DeKalb, IL slaughter house were involved in accident on Highway I-44 early this morning near St. Clair, Missouri. At 3:15 a.m. Incident Commander and Longmeadow Rescue Ranch Director Earlene Cole received a call from the Franklin County Sheriff’s office about the overturned trailer. Cole immediately directed a team of veterinarians and rescue personnel who arrived on the scene shortly after 4 a.m.26 horses were rescued alive and taken to St. Clair Saddle Club for triage and assessment. 7 horses died on the scene as a result of the accident and 9 seriously injured horses were humanely euthanized at the direction of the veterinarian on the scene.The 26 horses that were rescued alive have all experienced severe trauma, with many horses suffering multiple injuries, including cuts, lacerations, head trauma, and even partial paralysis.
Many of the surviving horses are now being treated at area equine hospitals, and others have been taken to the Humane Society of Missouri’s Longmeadow Rescue Ranch in Union, Missouri. The Humane Society of Missouri is working to obtain custody of the horses in order to provide them with a safe haven.
The Humane Society of Missouri also vigorously support the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act (H.R. 503), recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, which would outlaw the slaughter of horses for human consumption. Now the U.S. Senate must pass its version of the bill (S. 1915).The Humane Society of Missouri and its Longmeadow Rescue Ranch have been designated as first responders in emergencies and disasters involving animals. Longmeadow, located in Union, Missouri, and operated by the Humane Society of Missouri, is one of the largest horse and farm rescue and rehabilitation facilities in the United States.
Make a donation to help defer the costs of this rescue and the Humane Society’s efforts to obtain custody of these animals. Donate online or call 314-951-1542.
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