FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Chris Gallegos
Chris Gallegos
303-419-1162
FRANKTOWN, Colo. (March 6, 2012) - Some of Colorado’s formerly suffering, neglected and abused horses are getting a second chance. The Dumb Friends League announced it will open a new equine center—a unique private rehabilitation and adoption facility set to be fully operational in June 2012.
The Dumb Friends League Harmony Equine Center is not a sanctuary or a rescue facility. The Center will not accept owner-relinquished horses. It is for horses, as well as ponies, donkeys and mules, that have been removed from owners’ care by law enforcement authorities. Located near Franktown, Colo., the Center can house up to 100 horses at a time in well-equipped barns and on 140 acres of pasture.
“Our commitment to animals extends beyond the household pets that share our lives,” said President and CEO Bob Rohde. “This has been true since the League was formed in 1910, but it hasn’t been feasible for us to shoulder this added responsibility until now.”
A knowledgeable, professional staff is on the premises seven days a week, and veterinarians are available on an on-call basis. Some of the horses brought to the Center must be impounded while court cases are pending. These animals are secured and well maintained until the cases are resolved.
“Our primary goal is to alleviate suffering,” said Rohde. “It is our hope and desire that many of these horses will be made whole, rehabilitated and placed with new, responsible owners.”
The Harmony Equine Center will be open to visitors on pre-scheduled adoption days and for special events beginning in June.
As a local, independent, nonprofit organization, the Dumb Friends League relies on donations, not government support or funds from national animal welfare organizations.
“This long-standing dream was made possible by a very generous gift from Leslie and John Malone, longtime, loyal friends of the Dumb Friends League,” Rohde said. “Because the number of unwanted horses continues to rise along with skyrocketing hay prices, the need for an equine center of this caliber has never been greater, and we’ll continue to need help from all of our donors.”
For more information about the Dumb Friends League Harmony Equine Center and how you can help, visit ddfl.org/equine or call (303) 751-5772.