The Montana Horse Sanctuary was involved in the rescue, rehab and rehoming of 108 horses and donkeys this past winter/spring from the now-defunct Montana Large Animal Sanctuary which was located near Hot Springs/Nirada, Montana.  We were part of a group of numerous rescue organizations throughout Montana and the United States who rescued all 1,200 animals there.

Of the original 108 equines, 8 horses and 1 donkey had to be euthanized, due to serious health and/or neglect issues.  The good news is that the surviving animals are recovering well in new homes and sanctuaries.  I've been visiting horses and donkeys in the past couple of weeks and can gladly say they are doing wonderfully.  Please see the attached before and after photos of  “Buddy”, one of the horses from the rescue.  

Law enforcement action:
The Sanders County Sheriffs office has investigated this case which also includes the other nearly 1,100 large animals, many of whom were also in terrible condition.  Many of the other large animals also had to be euthanized, and many simply died.  The case has been turned over to the Sanders County Attorney, Bob Zimmerman.   This case is now nearly 6 months old and still no charges have been filed.  This is the largest case of its kind in the history of the U.S.

Take action today whether you live in Montana or any other state:
Please call, e-mail or write to:

1. Sanders County Attorney, Bob Zimmerman at 406-827-6903, legalassistant@sanderscounty.mt.gov, P.O. Box 519, Thompson Falls, MT  59873

2. Sanders County Commissioners: Their office  phone is 406-827-6942.  The commissioners are: Carol Brooker, Chairperson, (406) 827-6966, brooker@blackfoot.net; Glen Magera, Commissioner, (406) 827-6966, gmagera@sanderscounty.mt.gov ; and A.B. (Tony) Cox, Commissioner,
   

(406) 827-6966, tcox@sanderscounty.mt.gov
    
Urge these officials to file multiple felony charges.  There were nearly 1,200 animals and every 10 abused animals equals one felony charge in Montana.  If this case goes unpunished or is allowed to be plea-bargained down to a misdemeanor, it will be an open invitation to all animal abusers to come to Montana.   Additionally, animal abuse is against the law and laws need to be enforced!  Please be polite when you contact them and leave your name, town and phone number or e-mail address.    If you were involved in this rescue as a volunteer, adopter or in a professional capacity and are willing to testify at trial, please let the county attorney know that also.

Thank you for taking a stand for animals,
Sincerely,
Jane Heath
Montana Horse Sanctuary
Simms, MT
Www.montanahorsesanctuary.org
info@montanahorsesanctuary.org

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