It may be hot for the next couple of days, but as we start gradually moving towards the colder weather, the Vermilion County Animal Shelter is reminding everyone that if you see any animal that seems to be in distress or being mistreated; please call them, and they will do a welfare check.
Animal Control Officer Kathleen Orcutt says the coming months will definitely be challenging for horses because much of the hay crop was depleted due to the drought. And that can be very challenging for horse owners trying to keep their animals healthy.
AUDIO: And if they’re not going to be able to care for those animals throughout the winter, they should consider finding them a place to go where they can be taken care of; so that they’re not left in a position where they’re hungry, or left without the proper resources.
Recently, the animal shelter needed to seize two horses from the Oakwood area, and one 18 month old filly from the Sidell area that had to be euthanized. Orcutt says; it’s obvious, but it’s true; animals do not have a voice, and sometimes people need to speak for them.
AUDIO: If you have any concerns, it’s better to say; “I would rather go on a welfare check and everything be A-OK,” than somebody see something, and they think it’s normal, and then they don’t say anything; and then the animal ends up in a position where they’re either too thin, or they’re sick; or something else worse happens.
The number to call for the Vermilion County Animal Shelter is 217-431-2660.
