About 33 horses from DreamCatchers Equine Rescue will be up for adoption at a special fair in Fountain on March 8.The fair’s sponsors, HORSE – Helping Organizations Rescue and Save Equines, is a coalition of non-profit organizations dedicated to equine rescue. HORSE also responds to cases of neglect, abandonment and horse emergencies in Colorado. “We support each other and work together,” said DreamCatchers president Julie DeMuesy.”There are so many unwanted horses. People are just turning them loose.” She added that because of the current economic downturn and the cost of owning a horse, many owners are not able to care for their animals.DreamCatchers became home for 32 horses when they were seized from a rescue in Park County, Colo. between Dec. 26 and Jan 16. When the sheriff’s department intervened, most of the horses were emaciated. According to veterinary guidelines, the condition of the horses indicated a score of 1 and 2. A healthy horse is scored between 5 and 6. DeMuesy said the horses are close to 5s today.Some of the horses and ponies up for adoption still need training. But the horses have been broken for riding. A few of the horses are registered, and all have been examined by a veterinarian.Flagg is one of the horses up for adoption at the fair. But her brother Vinny, named after Vincent Van Gogh because a Rottweiler tore his ear off, won’t be joining her. “We’ll keep him here to give him a chance to grow,” DeMuesy said. Other horses at the fair include Piccato and Diamond, and Lacy, a registered American saddlebred.Many of the horses up for adoption are Mustangs, a breed that requires a special owner, DeMuesy said. “Mustangs are special. They’re not your regular backyard horses,” she said. “Their senses are heightened and they’re very attuned to your feelings. They need someone who is horse savvy… who knows horses, has patience.”As with all the horses, DeMuesy said, “A little food, a little love is all it takes.”
