Humane Colorado calls for community support to provide rescued horses with the care they need to begin their recovery. FRANKTOWN, Col., (Aug. 5, 2025) – Dozens of horses are beginning a new chapter after being rescued from what appears to be severe neglect in rural Colorado. But their journey is far from over. In early July, in partnership with law enforcement, Humane Colorado stepped up to provide a safe landing place for over 70 horses and foals who were removed from a property where they appeared to have endured scorching summer temperatures with insufficient food, lack of access to critical veterinary care, and severely overgrown hooves. Many looked to be in pain with more than half the herd seen as being painfully lame. Now safe at Humane Colorado’s Harmony Equine Center, these horses are receiving the critical care they’ve long needed, but the scope of this case is immense. “These horses didn’t get this way overnight, and they won’t heal overnight either,” said Dr. Kim Gardner-Graff, Field Services Veterinarian at Humane Colorado. “We’re treating wounds, infections, advanced lameness, and years of trauma from what appears to be severe neglect.” Among the herd are young foals and many mares who show signs of pregnancy. Nearly half of the horses exhibit lameness and a critical need for farrier intervention. Many are visibly underweight, and some are battling eye injuries, abscesses, and painful hoof and joint conditions. Despite the scale of the rescue, Humane Colorado stepped in without hesitation. But staff acknowledge that the case has stretched resources thin. “What makes this work possible isn’t just the team on the ground. It’s the broader community that shows up, time and again, when animals need us most,” said Dr. Apryl Steele, President & CEO of Humane Colorado. “We know people care deeply about horses, and we’re asking them to stand with us once again. Every donation, no matter the amount, helps us provide vital care to these animals – care they desperately need.” Donations will support every stage of care, from urgent medical and farrier treatment to specialized nutrition and foaling support. “These horses appear to have gone without proper care for a very long time,” said Dr. Gardner-Graff. “It is going to take extensive resources to bring them back into good health. This is why we need our equine-loving community to partner with us to provide the proper care and medical attention they need to give them the better future they deserve.” Humane Colorado invites supporters to follow the horses’ progress and make an urgent gift at donate.humanecolorado.org/hopeforhorses. ### About Humane Colorado Humane Colorado, formerly the Dumb Friends League, is a 115-year-old, independent nonprofit working to end pet homelessness and animal suffering across Colorado. Each year, the organization provides shelter, veterinary care, ad critical services to more than 40,000 homeless pets and horses. Humane Colorado’s mission extends beyond their walls – focusing on life-saving services, connecting families with homeless animals, and addressing barriers to pet ownership. The organization operates independently and is not affiliated with any national organization. Learn more at HumaneColorado.org and follow along on social media. Share Facebook TikTok Instagram
