September 15, 2010

Elizabeth Harrington
Reporter for  WDBJ7 

Horse rescue group pleads for help
Group owes $17,000. They say donations are down.

HARDY, Va. —

The poor economy is taking a toll in the stable.

The Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue needs donations. They owe $17,000.

Jason Muncy helps run the non-profit group. He says demand far exceeds donations. Muncy has even used his personal credit cards to help foot the bill.  That’s why the group now has a limit of 25 horses.

“We’re no longer taking in owner releases just simply due to the fact that at least once a day we get an email or phone call from somebody wanting to relinquish their horse to us,” says Muncy, “Unfortunately, we have to say no.”

Taking care of a horse can be expensive.  Muncy says it’s about $200 a month.

Susan Tyler volunteers at the Horse Rescue.  She’s there every day feeding the horses and cleaning the facility. She does it for one reason.

“I just love it here,” says Tyler, “I love the horses. I’m just glad that I can be here to take care of them.”

The Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue is now taking donations on its website.