Out of the many things that separate humans from animals, one strikes the most. It is the ability to communicate one’s feelings. Animals are innocent beings that do not understand or speak human language. Thus, it becomes crucial for owners to take extra care when it comes to their pets. This importance of giving adequate care increases even more in Equestrian sports, where humans and horses share a special relationship. However, a recent turn of events has shocked lovers of the sport due to horrifying mistreatment of horses.

The latest instance from a newsletter exposed the harsh realities that go behind the treatment of horses. As the seething news blew up, the need to be compassionate towards the plight of one horse rose up. Amidst the heartbreaking news, a new update has brought a sign of relief to the equestrian community.

Ripley’s Condition Makes “My Blood Boil”

If one is to argue about horse races, much training goes behind it. But what happens to those horses that might not be fruitful to the owners? Must they not be fed? Or should one just simply starve the horses? In the recent newsletter of Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue, the heartbreaking news of mistreatment towards a horse has come up. The founder, director of the newsletter, putting the past to light, shared some insights. Ripley, as the horse is called, has been through a lot. Christine Hajek recalls, “Over the course of 20 years of rescue, I’ve seen many abuses that make my blood boil; but I have a special level of rage for horses like Ripley.”

As Ripley’s winning capacity faded over the years post winning and changing homes, she was subjected to inhumane conditions. Hajek says, “Whoever had her made the choice to fail to give her adequate nutrition. They also chose not to sell her, so she might have a chance to find a new home while in good condition. But they chose instead to watch her body waste away until her bones showed through her skin.” but this is not the end of story, she also shared a positive insight.

Read More: Months After Being Left to Die, Horse Who Couldn’t Even Walk Wins Nation’s Heart by Unbelievable Feat in Equestrian Sport

Christine Hajek had some good news to share as well. She announced, “Ripley is safe now. As her ribs begin to slowly fade, hidden behind a healthy layer of fat and newly strengthened muscle, my anger is even more slowly subsiding, but it will never completely leave my heart.” Adding on, Hajek also made sure to raise awareness about it. “Horse owners must do better by the horses who give them, quite literally, everything they have to give,” advised the founder. However, this is not the first time the mistreatment of horses has surfaced.

Neglect Towards Horses in Gage County

On 29th July 2023, reporters from KETV received information about Gage County in Nebraska. It was believed that horses were dying at an equestrian property due to toxic hay. The citizens of Gage County reported about the property. They affirmed that the poor condition of the horses was due to neglect towards the horses. 

 A veterinarian, who was one of the residents, claimed that the incident was repetitive in nature and not something that happened only once. She declared that she had seen how skinny the horses at the property were. She also had images of the horses before the alleged toxic hay was brought to the place.

All this news sheds light and awareness about the reality of horse breeding. One thing is clear: horses are not just for racing and winning. Their care is as important as training, if not more.

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