Local Groups Help Support Horse Owners

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is partnering with a local animal support center to help horse owners get by during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the groups' goal is to help keep more horses healthy and fed.

"Supplementary veterinary care, for owners who need a little assistance with some pet bills, euthanasia and disposal for horses that might be suffering, and relinquish services," said Tom Persechino, the ASPCA Director of Equine Welfare.

These are just a few things a pilot group apart of ASPCA is doing, but now they are turning their attention to helping families who need assistance feeding their horses during the pandemic.

"We partnered with Nexus Equine in Edmond and decided to do this supplemental alfalfa cube distribution," said Persechino.

People who need help can ask for up to fifteen bags of feed, which can feed horses for about a month. They make distributions on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

"If we can help owners get past this little blip in their life, then we know that is going to lead to good welfare to horses," said Persechino.

Officials said as of Tuesday, about 118 horses have been fed.

"We are going to be here as long as the Alfalfa cubes hold out," said Persechino.

As they distribute feed Saturday, they plan to also have a vaccination clinic up for horses needing vaccinations.

Their only request is to call and make an appointment to pick up the food. The number is 405-423-1461.