PENDER COUNTY — As the founder of Horton Rehab Ranch and also a consultant for Penderosa Rescue Sanctuary, Jewell Horton has committed much of her time to caring for abused and neglected horses.
However bleak the situation, Horton remains dedicated to delivering the best care that the 501(c)3 organizations are able to provide. Now, Horton is facing one of her most heartbreaking situations, caring for several emaciated and malnourished horses that were recently rescued.
“They came into our care through Penderosa, who are the legal guardians,” Horton explained softly, gently stroking the emaciated neck of one of the mares. “They have been named the Golden Girls because they are senior, and they were all surrendered.”
With several of the mares starved to mere skin and bones, there remains no guarantee that all will survive.
“They’re in critical condition,” Horton said. “In this condition, we’re at least a couple of months out from even considering adoption.”
Unable to disclose the full details of how the starved horses became so malnourished, due to an ongoing investigation, Horton has remained focused on rehabilitation.
“We’ve got about $600 in vet bills already and $400 in shavings and feed,” Horton said. “More donations are desperately needed.”
At 5 years old, Garrett Bordeaux is the youngest donor who has come out in support of the Golden Girls.
“I’m glad they are at a place that they can be loved,” Bordeaux said, as he watched the horses. “I just hope they will get better.”
Donations for the care of horses may be given online, at www.penderosasanctuary.com or www.hortonsrehabranch.com.
Samira Davis is a contributing writer for Port City Daily
