For 10 years, Equine Protection of North America (EPONA) has saved homeless, abused, and neglected horses, and placed them in loving homes. But on Tuesday, March 16th, the Epping, New Hampshire-based nonprofit rescue announced that it was permanently closing its doors, leaving the fates of three remaining "special needs" horses still up in the air. They must find new placements by month's end.
EPONA President Catherine Blake explained that, "in this economy, we are just not able to make ends meet. It's heartbreaking."
On behalf of EPONA, Ms. Blake is reaching out to anyone who may be able to provide temporary or permanent care for:
Iceman, a 17-year-old thoroughbred gelding (pictured above), who is a grandson of the great Northern Dancer. In his earlier days, Iceman was quite an athlete himself, having had a successful career as a high-ranking jumper and three-day eventer. But by the time he got to EPONA, he had been the victim of long-term neglect. He was diagnosed with Uveitis, or "Moon Blindness," and had lost the vision in one of his eyes. The damage caused by the inflammation in the grand gelding's eyes made it necessary to remove them. Though completely blind, Iceman has led a happy life romping in the paddock with his seeing-eye companions, including Prize (below).
Prize, a 15-year-old thoroughbred gelding, who has recently taken over duties as a gentle guide for Iceman. Prize competed at Rockingham Park until an injury to his left front ankle ended his racing career. His gentle disposition makes him an ideal pasture mate.
Chance, a 14-year-old warmblood gending, who came to EPONA after he broke his leg in a fall on the ice, in a freak winter accident. His cast broke during his recovery, and that caused his leg to heal incorrectly, so that it is permanently crooked at the knee. He gets around fine but can't be ridden. EPONA gave Chance a rare second chance, and now he needs one more miracle.
If you can help one of these horses with a home or with a donation to facilitate their transition, or if you know someone who can, please contact Catherine Blake at 603-828-7312 or at info@eponarescue.org.
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