Oct. 19 fundraiser at Horse Creek Rescue in Barberville — Ride or Walk to help America's Horses

Put on your saddle or your sneakers

By Pat Hatfield
BEACON STAFF WRITER

posted Oct 8, 2008 - 2:45:49pm

Horse Creek Rescue in Barberville is asking everyone to come out around 9 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, for fun, and to help rescued horses.

The event is the Ride or Walk to Help America's Horses.

Horse Creek Rescue is a 501c3 nonprofit organization associated with Horse Creek Equestrian Center at 350 East State Road 40 in Barberville.

Manager Julie Hartman explained, "Recently, with the financial crunch, there are a lot of people calling with horses that have been abused or neglected."

One of her favorite horses is Socks, who was skinny as a rail when he was rescued six months ago.

Socks is doing well now, but is still putting on needed weight.

The economy in some cases has forced people to give up their horses, whose feed and veterinary care are expensive.

People call on Horse Creek Rescue, because it's easier for West Volusians to get horses there than to other places, Hartman said.

Currently, 16 rescued horses have a home at the shelter, and there's a waiting list, Hartman said.

Taking care of them takes a toll.

"Grain has gone up. It costs $250 a week in grain alone, not including the hay, to feed the horses," Hartman said.

She promised a good time for anyone who wants to participate in the Ride or Walk.

Horse owners can bring their horses, or walkers can tie their laces for a walk through the neighboring Heart Island Conservation Area, which the St. Johns River Water Management District will open for the event.

"They've been terrific to work with us," Hartman said.

There will be two trails: one for riders, and one for walkers.

Boy Scout Troop 725 of DeLand will sell hot dogs, chips and sodas at the event, helping the horses, and helping the Scouts earn badges and raise funds for trips.

To register, go online to NationalRescueRide.org, which is organizing ride-or-walk events all around the country. The registration fee is $20, and includes a "Rescue Ride" T-shirt.

Registration will also be available at the Horse Creek Equestrian Center Oct. 19, but those who register at the door do not get a T-shirt.

For more information, call Hartman at (386) 749-2888, or visit onlinet .

— pat@beacononlinenews.com

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