Horse Illustrated Magazine

The Animal Wellness Foundation (AWF), in its latest disaster response efforts, is providing hay to horses impacted by Hurricane Dorian on the island of Grand Bahama. Large animals are often not a central focus of animal disaster response efforts after an emergency. However, their needs are often as acute as those of stranded or injured dogs and cats.

The team departed Fort Pierce, Fla., and returned that same day. Once on the ground, the team traveled to three farms to assess structural damage and equine health needs. The mission was led by Jennifer Skiff, director of iternational programs for the Animal Wellness Foundation; Laurie Hood, Florida state director for Animal Wellness Action; and Dr. Bess Darrow, an equine veterinarian based in central Florida.

The Bahamas does not produce its own hay. With such incredible human dislocation on the islands, there is no safety net for horses. “These horses need us, and we are prepared to meet their needs in crisis,” said Skiff. “Our plan is to stabilize them, attend to any immediate needs and to provide food for as long as six months.”

Animal Wellness Action

AWF was a member of a coalition of humane organizations working to the rescue of 72 homeless dogs from Nassau after Hurricane Dorian caused mass destruction on August 24. Each U.S. organization played a specific, coordinated role. AWF was tasked with taking pet food and supplies to the islands, as well as bringing the dogs back. AWF is continuing to provide relief to animals affected by the hurricane. The organization has since ordered a six-month supply of hay to feed 19 horses left on Grand Bahama. Over 200 animals and their guardians perished at the Ol’ Freetown Farm during the hurricane. There are searches under way for any surviving goats and pigs.

The Animal Wellness Foundation (Foundation) is a Los Angeles-based private charitable organization. Its mission is to help animals by making veterinary care available to everyone with a pet, regardless of economic ability.

Animal Wellness Action (Action) is a Washington, D.C.-based 501(c)(4) organization. Its mission is to help animals by promoting legal standards forbidding cruelty by championing causes that alleviate the suffering of companion animals, farm animals, and wildlife. For more, visit the Animal Wellness Action website.