INDUSTRY – The rescue at the Double B Equine Rescue proved just that, thanks to many generous contributors.
The Giddy-Up & Go 4-H Horse Club had hoped to get donations from area farms of at least 20 bales of hay over the weekend to help the struggling rescue facility feed the dozen horses in its care.
Well, the club got a lot more than that.
The “Hay Raiser,” said club leader Janine Winn of Temple, “far exceeded the club’s expectations with 21 individuals pledging about 100 bales of hay and $130 in cash donations to the rescue through the club.”
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The nonprofit Double B facility, located on West Mills Road, takes in and provides rehabilitation for horses suffering from neglect, abuse, or in need of a good home. The rescue is only one of four in Maine that is certified by the state’s Department of Animal Welfare to care for large animals.
The facility was filled to its capacity at 12 horses last week, with the good news that one horse named Shadow was adopted on Saturday. But the calls continue to come in requesting help in finding homes for more horses. Often, in these tough economic times, it’s a case of no longer being able to afford the feed. Added to that, is the fact that donations to help the horses at the facility are down.
All good reasons why the 4-H Club started the hay raiser last year and came back again this year to help out.
For the Double B’s owner Brenda DuBois, the hay boost came at a good time.
“The barn was empty. We were down to 10 bales so this was really welcomed,” DuBois said. Among the donations was from a farmer in Skowhegan who gave 40 bales to the cause.
“People in these hard times, still think of other people. The (4-H) club did a great job,” DuBois said.
Through the February break from school, the 4-Hers worked to get donations and spent a breezy cold Saturday picking up and delivering truck loads of hay to the Double B.
Once the work was completed it was time to meet the boarders, find out their histories and how their needs are being met, Winn said. Buffalo Bill, a young miniature horse was a favorite of the group, she added.
“The members were every excited about the generous response to their appeals for help for the horses and wish to thank everyone who helped out,” Winn said.
“People have such good hearts,” DuBois said.
To find out more about the Double B rescue effort, go to mainehorserescue.com or call them at 778-6479. The facility is located at 997 West Mills Road (Rt. 148) in Industry.
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