Burned horses and donkey treated at Helen Woodward Animal Center
Rancho Santa Fe, CA – One horse has been euthanized. Two other horses and a donkey are receiving treatment at Helen Woodward Animal Center for burns sustained in the fires in East San Diego County.
The first two horses, a paint and a palomino, were taken to the Center’s community Equine hospital by border patrol agents after they were found burned. A hospital spokesperson says that the palomino appeared to be a black horse when it arrived.
A private individual rescued the other horse and the donkey from the Wildcat Canyon area. That horse had sustained severe injuries to its legs and hooves. After examination the injured horse was euthanized by a veterinarian.
A hospital staff member says that the horses appear to be doing well, but, “It’s hard to say on burn cases. One of the most important things is to keep the cells hydrated. There’s always the fear that they will develop secondary infections. We’re monitoring them to make sure that doesn’t happen.”
The owners of these animals remain unknown. Early this afternoon hospital officials were notified that another horse with burn injuries was being transported from the East County to Helen Woodward Animal Center’s Equine hospital in Rancho Santa Fe.
The Center’s Equine hospital and Adoptions department remain open. Center President Mike Arms explains, “The hospital is an emergency care facility. It will remain open to treat injured horses. We’re keeping our Adoptions department open with a limited staff. Every dog or cat adopted is one less to transport if we have to evacuate.”
The Center has suspended its Education, Pet Encounter Therapy, and Therapeutic Horseback Riding programs. The Club Pet boarding facility is open for pickup only.
“We’re asking our volunteers and staff members to come in for their shifts. The animals still need care, and if we’re forced to leave, we’ll need them even more.”
Helen Woodward Animal Center is located at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe. The Center is accepting donations for its emergency medical fund. Donations can be dropped off, mailed to the Center, or made online at www.animalcenter.org. |
