The Pennsylvania 9

With the arrival of Honey and Inky, the PA 7 has now become the PA 9!!!

On March 12, 2009, the Warren County Humane Society of Pennsylvania impounded 13 draft horses and 10 cows in a horrific case of animal abuse and neglect. A fourteenth horse did not survive long enough and was found dead at the scene. Warren County stretched all of their resources to rescue these animals, and did a fine job swiftly arranging for their care and transport. One of their directors contacted Gentle Giants, and of course we were happy to assist them in this amazing effort. Gentle Giants accepted the seven horses who were most in need of medical care or training, since both were resources Warren County could not easily provide. In order to facilitate this huge rescue effort, Gentle Giants had to rent a second pasture space to house the sudden influx. Please remember, the rescue effort doesn't stop with just getting them here... now we have to get them healthy, get them retrained, and find them homes.

Here are the horses in Before/After comparison photos:

Cricket is a 3 year old Belgian stud colt. He has been so starved, he is stunted to the size of an 8 month old. Now gelded, he is recovering well on a specially formulated diet. He has also learned how to socialize without fear. Sponsored by C. Mohr, Thank you!

Raven is a 2 1/2 year old Percheron mare. She is broke to drive, but not ride. Raven will be starting training soon as a riding horse. Slightly roach backed, she will make a nice pleasure horse. Smart and curious, but a touch pushy. Raven needs a Sponsor! $100 a month covers her care!

Hope is a 6 year old Belgian mare. One of the most severely affected horses, Hope was in grave condition. Plagued by mites, lice, and mange on top of her starvation, she was a sad sight. She is now flourishing, and is incredibly affectionate. She holds no ill will against humans for their treatment of her. Hope remains in rehab and is not ready to start training yet. Hope is Sponsored by P. Pollack, Thank You!

Summer is a 6 year old Belgian Mare who is broke to drive. She is intelligent and responsive, and was half of a show driving team. She has recently been moved to the main farm to begin her under saddle training. A truly high quality mare, she will make a fine mount. Summer needs a Sponsor! $75 monthly supports Summers care.

Thalia is a 2 1/2 year old Belgian Mare and she is going to be HUGE!!! Already topping 17 hands, she is growing like a weed! Fast, flashy, and athletic, this one will be for the rider looking to do a little more than mosey. Has the build and athleticism for Hunt or Jumping. Thalia means"to blossom", which this girl is certainly doing well! Sponsored by N. Boyd, Thank You!

Stalin, 19 year old Belgian Gelding. Was half of a show driving team with Summer, but she was most likely not his first teammate. Stalin is arrogant and pushy on the ground, but gets down to business once he is hitched up. Drives great, but has never been ridden. Recently moved to the main farm to begin his under saddle training. Stalin needs a Sponsor! $75 a month covers his care!

Rex was the last horse to arrive, having to be shipped alone since we could only haul six in one load! He is finally here, and is doing great! Rex has EPSM and needs extensive farrier work. This boy is so sweet! Rex needs a Sponsor! $100 a month covers his special needs!