04.29.09
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts: John Holland
540.268.5693
john@equinewelfarealliance.org
Vicki Tobin
630.961.9292
vicki@equinewelfarealliance.org
Plan emerging for mustangs from 3-Strikes Ranch
CHICAGO, (EWA) – In recent weeks, the tragic extent of problems at Jason Meduna’s 3-Strikes Ranch in Nebraska has unfolded. The sprawling facility, whose mission statement said they were “dedicated to working with the BLM and BLM three-striker horses”, was found to be littered with starving and dead horses. “Three-striker” is a reference to horses at risk of unrestricted sale (slaughter) under the Burn’s amendment that removed protections from older horses that had been offered for adoption by BLM three times.
Jerry Finch of Habitat for Horses, was one of the first people to arrive on site in Nebraska. Upon learning the extent of the problem, The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), immediately sent fifteen people from around the country. All reports indicate that Emergency Services group has done a stellar job. Finch says he is thankful to all the volunteers, rescue organizations and local officials who are assisting and for the outpouring of concern for the horses.
Now, with the surviving horses safely removed to the local fair grounds, equine groups are coming together to re-home the surviving 211 horses.
The following information is being provided for those interested in helping in the process.
-Not withstanding the claim on the 3-Strikes web site that it was charging a $500 intake fee so that all horses could be gentled before allowing them to “roam free”; rescue workers on site indicate that most of the horses are completely wild.
Jerry Finch therefore warns that these horses will therefore require special facilities and handling until they can be gentled enough for transfer to ordinary horse owners.
-Any individuals wanting to adopt or claim a horse must contact either Michelle Conner at 719.651.3662 or Hilary Wood at 719.481.1490. Michelle and Hilary are from Front Range Equine Rescue and will be handling all the release and adoption paperwork.
-HSUS has indicated that they will remain engaged as long as they are needed. They are providing the current medical needs but a long-term plan must be developed. The horses have all been evaluated and a major issue is lice and particularly, tics. Some of the horses are bald, due to infestations.
-Hay is in good supply and additional volunteers are not needed at this time.
-The duration of allowed stay at the fairgrounds is under discussion, but assurances have been given that the Rodeo grounds may be used through May 9th.
-Anyone with information on potential long-term homing facilities should contact Jerry Finch at 409-682-6621
In an ironic coincidence, The Restore Our American Mustangs (ROAM) Act, HR 1018, introduced by Congressmen Nick Rahall and Raul Grijalva, will be considered before the full Committee on Natural Resources on Wednesday, April 29th at 10:00am (EST). The act would reverse the “three strikes” legislation for which the ranch is named. We are hopeful that this will result in the swift scheduling of a floor vote before the House of Representatives.
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