The Sharpsburg Horse Rescue Medical and Rehab Fund In Continuous Need for Support
Equestrian News Release

Hagerstown, MD – January 24, 2007 – On December 2, 2006, The Humane Society of Washington County in Hagerstown, MD, began an enormous horse cruelty investigation in Sharpsburg, MD. As a result, 75 horses were impounded and relocated to several locations pending the disposition of the criminal case.

The owner of the farm has been charged with 72 misdemeanor counts of abuse or neglect of animals and four felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. The court date is scheduled for February 22, 2007, at 1 p.m. in the District Court of Washington County.

The Humane Society has the responsibility of caring for all the 70+ horses until the case is legally resolved. To accomplish this, they have to feed and provide veterinary, farrier and other necessary care for all 70+ horses until the case is legally resolved. Of the 74 horses seized at the Sharpsburg property, one died en route to a veterinary facility and two have been euthanized. Medical evaluations have revealed the horses are in need of extensive worming, dental and regular vaccinations.

Currently they, thanks to local North County contributors, have hay that will last until approximately the second week in February for approximately 22 of the 70+ horses. They would like to raise enough money to stock their barns with hay to get them through the month. They will need approximately 400 bales of grass hay. In addition, they would like to solicit help in delivering this hay to the satellite farms in the Washington County area.

Due to the current and future medical, rehabilitation and daily requirements of the 70+ horses this rescue effort will continue to require assistance. The Humane Society of Washington County is asking for financial contributions which will be utilized for the ongoing needs of the horses. Contributions may be sent to the Humane Society of Washington County, Attention: The Sharpsburg Horse Rescue Medical and Rehabilitation Fund, 13011 Maugansville Road, Hagerstown MD 21740.

The Humane Society of Washington County is recognized as exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All donations are tax deductible. Receipts will be sent from the Humane Society of Washington County, 13011 Maugansville Road, Hagerstown, MD 21740. Or, contact Katherine Cooker at 301-733-2060, ext. 237 or by e-mail: kcooker@hswcmd.org.

To receive receipts from the HSWC please include your name, address and phone number and the amount of your donation and enclose it with your donation. Thank you for your support.