FREDERICKSBURG, Texas — Two horses in Gillespie County that were rescued from “appalling conditions” last month have found a new home, the Hill Country SPCA (HCSPCA) in Fredericksburg said.
On Sunday, the organization was awarded custody of the sorrel gelding and blue stud horses, named Goose and Maverick. It said the horses had been living in cramped spaces with inadequate shelter and barely enough food and water for over 10 years.
Gillespie County deputies seized the horses on June 27, and they were taken to Hill Country Veterinary Clinic, where they have been under the care of Dr. Amy Joe Pilmer.
“These innocent animals deserve so much better,” HCSPCA Executive Director Andrew Davis said. “Thank you to Gillespie County sheriff deputies for saving them from those horrific conditions and Dr. Pilmer and her staff at Hill Country Vet Clinic who have taken great care of them. Their healing can officially begin knowing they are safe, cared for and loved. We are honored to now be a part of their care team.”
PHOTOS: Horses rescued in Gillespie County
Animal Care manager Stevie Sheriff said the horses will be cared for through the organization’s Healing Hearts program.
“This program helps animals who would otherwise be euthanized due to medical conditions that are treatable, but costly,” Sheriff said. “Sometimes the difference between an animal being adopted or euthanized comes down to one very simple issue – funding.”
Through support and donations from the community, the HCSPCA said they raised $10,000 for its Healing Hearts program, which helped the organization a forever home for Goose and Maverick.
“We are immensely thankful for our dedicated HCSPCA supporters. They never cease to amaze us,” said Executive Director Andrew Davis. “Their unwavering support and contributions made it possible for us to find an exceptional home for Goose and Maverick.”
HCSPCA operations manager Kaitlyn Blumrich encouraged the public to support the program.
“While we may not be able to change their past, we are dedicated to ensuring that they never have to endure pain again. Our mission is to offer them a future filled with happiness, compassion, and endless opportunities to enjoy their lives," said Blumrich.
The HCSPCA states they remain "committed to its mission of giving every pet i the Hill Country the best possible life through successful rescue, adoption, community relationships, awareness and advocacy."
KVUE reached out to the Gillespie County Sheriff's Office regarding any charges surrounding the horses. The sheriff's office has not responded.