Press Release

Neglected Horses Found In Algiers Stable Now In Good Health:

Seven Available For Adoption

NEW ORLEANS, LA (August 1, 2007) - It was a grim sight when humane officers from the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (LA/SPCA) and the New Orleans Police Department arrived at the stables of Dave Williams in Algiers on February 25, 2007. They found two dead horses and 31 horses in need of water, food and hay. The LA/SPCA coordinated the rescue and sheltering of the horses found at the scene, and today it reports that the surviving horses are in good health and seven are available for adoption.

LA/SPCA Director of Humane Law Enforcement, Kathryn Destreza says their recovery is remarkable, “The difference is night and day. The horses are playing and running around in pastures. They have a spark in their eyes. Initially, they were
so depressed, simply standing in one place and not moving. Each had their own set of medical problems but now they are healthy.” This is a far cry from what Destreza witnessed six months ago. “It was deplorable. The horses were skin and bones, and standing in mud with no fresh water, hay or food. They were in dire need of medical attention.”

Destreza immediately sought the help of Rescue Ranch in Belle Chasse to shelter the animals since the LA/SPCA did not have the adequate space, or on-hand resources to care for the horses. “Horses are an enormous responsibility and they require daily attention and nurturing,” said Destreza. “I knew that Lori Wilson, director of the Rescue Ranch, would be up for the mission and she was. She opened her stables for these abused animals, providing around-the-clock care, tending to their medical needs, and giving them old-fashioned tender loving care.” If the public is interested in adopting any of the available horses they are being asked to contact Rescue Ranch directly at 504-393-8485.

Since February the LA/SPCA has financed the veterinary care, feed costs, grooming and farrier service, and stable rentals. To date the costs have exceeded $51,000 with an anticipated additional cost of $18,000 through August. PetSmart recently donated $15,000 to the cause. “We are thankful that corporations like PetSmart recognize the costs involved for the horses,” said Ana Zorilla, Director of Development at the LA/SPCA. “We also appreciate the support we’ve received from the public in donations and calls, and support is still needed,” said Zorrilla. “Community support on all levels is crucial in the fight against animal cruelty.”

This animal cruelty case is one of many cases that the LA/SPCA handles each year. The stable owner Dave Williams was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department and charged with 23 counts of cruelty. The case is pending in magistrate court.

If you would like to make a donation toward the horses continued care please send to: LA/SPCA,
1700 Mardi Gras Boulevard, New Orleans, LA 70114 or donate on-line. To report animal cruelties please call the LA/SPCA at 504-368-5191, ext. 100. It can also be reported on the LA/SPCA website at: http://www.la-spca.org/forms/investigation_request.htm.

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