Horse rebounds at Safe Haven

GRANDPA HANK

Grandpa Hank, the wonder horse, came to live at Safe Haven Horse Rescue in November of 2008, after being found in the mountains just outside of Redding by a group of hunters.

Upon being found, Grandpa Hank weighed approximately 600 pounds, had no food or water and was close to death.

Two months later, with a lot of love, nutritious feed, hard work and much appreciated donations by the surrounding communities, Hank is getting fat, sassy and weighs approximately 1,000 pounds. On Jan. 18, Grandpa Hank was taken for his first ride since his arrival at Safe Haven.

Within the past six months, five horses have been brought home to Safe Haven from the Nevada Kill Pens. Two of which have been at the rescue for one week.

There are currently 47 residents at Safe Haven. Seven of them that are waiting for the perfect family to adopt them.

In late 2008, Safe Haven Horse Rescue received a $13,000 grant for panels from the Hind Foundation of Southern California. This is the first grant they have received in 14 years.

Safe Haven still has its monthly work days every second Saturday of the month. There is much to do for all of the equine residents. All help is greatly appreciated.

The rescue group will be participating at a local event on April 5, which is the Love Your Pet Expo at the Shasta District Fair grounds. There is also a summer fundraiser in June. The fundraiser is a poker ride. All proceeds will go directly to feed and provide other types of care for the horses. For more information, call Linda Richards at (530) 347-4941. Safe Haven Horse Rescue is a non-profit organization and depends solely on donations to help save the animals.