The Humane Society of Ventura County is asking for the public’s help in order to continue housing and treating 37 severely neglected horses that were rescued from a Lockwood Valley ranch on Oct. 8.

“We are in a desperate situation right now,” said Jolene Hoffman, director of the Humane Society’s shelter in Ojai.

Hoffman said that the 20-stall portable barn that businessman David Murdock loaned to the Humane Society, following the October 8th rescue, was being dismantled and moved this week. “Although it was only for two months, we are very grateful for Mr. Murdock’s generosity in loaning us the barn” Hoffman said.

“What makes the Humane Society’s predicament most critical,” Hoffman added, “is that nine of the rescued mares are confirmed pregnant, and 11 more are possibly pregnant. The mares are due to foal between now and March, one any day. With temperatures in the 30s, we need to provide adequate shelter for these neglected mares and foals.”
Hoffman said the Humane Society is planning on purchasing a 20-stall permanent barn for the horses. Eventually this barn will be used for emergency evacuated animals in Ventura County during disasters. The cost for the new barn is approximately $47,000.

Donations may be sent to the Shelter at PO Box 297, Ojai, CA 93024. For more information, call 805 656-5031, or visit www.humansocietyvc.org.