The Humane Society of the United States Assists in the Rescue of 16 Horses and other Animals in Alleged Severe Neglect Situation in Ashland, Ohio

Nov 18, 2022

The Humane Society of the United States is assisting the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office with the rescue of 16 horses, six goats and several cats and dogs from an alleged neglect situation in Ashland, Ohio. The Humane Society of Ashland County, Days End Farm Horse Rescue and Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary also assisted in the rescue operation.

Local authorities served a search and seizure warrant around 9 a.m. on Nov. 16. Horses were found living in filthy conditions—some stalls were full of several feet of manure, leaving the horses and goats with no choice but to stand on top of the waste with their hooves sinking into the accumulated waste. Veterinarians observed that the horses and goats desperately needed care for their overgrown and damaged hooves, which can cause lameness and can become life-threatening if untreated.

A mare with an apparently ruptured eye paced in her pen, as a thin mare in the neighboring enclosure was found down in the filth on her side. She appeared weak and struggled to walk when she was led from her enclosure. A goat with severely overgrown hooves and a horn curling into his head bleated repeated and attempted to climb the sides of his stall. Due to the waste accumulation, it took several responders to pry open the door of the stall to remove him from the barn.

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Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Pat Hoffmann, Swine Technical Consultant at Elanco Animal Health tells us about the impact of New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.