Over the past couple of weeks, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) has taken in a total of six horses from two separate owners, who are now being cared for at ARL’s Animal Care and Adoption Centers in Dedham and Brewster.

In both cases the owners were no longer able to properly care for the animals, choosing to surrender them into the care of ARL.

Of course ARL’s Dedham campus is no stranger to having equine on the property, as the sprawling 27-acres served as ARL founder Anna Harris Smith’s summer residence and was also a respite for the working horses of Boston. Countless abused horses were also sheltered and rehabilitated in Dedham’s iconic red barn.

Caring for horses is not an easy undertaking. Along with copious amounts of hay and horse feed, the animals need on-going veterinary and farrier services, and space to exercise and graze.

Horses arriving in Dedham.

Unloading.

Heading to the barn.

Inside the barn.

A new temporary home.

Getting some grazing time.

These horses will be on a regimented feeding schedule until they are back to their normal weight.

Grazing in Brewster.

The two horses in Brewster receive periods of paddock and grazing time.

The horses are very friendly and will be available for adoption in the near future.

You can clearly see this horse's ribs, gaining weight has to be done slowly and safely.

ARL will find the perfect homes for these six, beautiful animals.

The four horses in Dedham originated from Templeton, MA – they’re between the ages of 10-15, all are underweight and have settled into the grounds and are improving each and every day. They are well-mannered, friendly and sometime down the road will make wonderful additions to horse-loving families.

With Cape Cod solitude and the serenity of the ocean breeze, Brewster’s barn and paddocks are a perfect place for farm animals, including horses, to receive care. The Brewster Animal Care and Adoption Center is a vital cog in ARL’s ability to shelter and care for livestock; in the past year alone, Brewster’s barn has housed a donkey, pony, pigs, along with other small farm animals.

The two horses were surrendered from a Plymouth County residence and while on the older side, 18 and 20-years-old respectively, the horses are even-tempered and are enjoying their new surroundings. Unfortunately the horses in Brewster scored a 1 out of 9 on the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System – meaning they are emaciated, with no body fat.

They have shown a ferocious hunger, but because of their condition, they need to gain weight slowly. The animals are on a regimented feeding schedule, and are allowed to graze in a paddock for about 15 minutes several times a day.

The six horses will remain in the care of ARL until they are deemed fit enough for adoption, and will then be rehomed to loving families.

Changing Circumstances

No matter the size or species, animals are a life-long commitment, however ARL understands that circumstances happen in life where owners are no longer able to provide proper care. Reaching out to a reputable organization like ARL is critical to avoid further complications and endangering the health and well-being of the animals. If surrender becomes necessary, owners can reach out to any of ARL’s Intake Offices for guidance.