On May 1st in Greenfield, NY, Judge Michael Ginley convicted Ann Arnold of 19 counts of failing to care for her animals and one count of criminal nuisance, all misdemeanors. Fourteen horses involved in this case arrived at CAS last fall and have all fully recovered from symptoms of prolonged neglect, including starvation, hoof and skin conditions. “Even a person unfamiliar with horses would recognize from photos introduced at trial that the animals were ‘skin and bone’ and ‘critically undernourished’,” said Judge Ginley. A sentencing date has not been set, but prosecutors plan to ask the judge to bar Arnold [...]

As Outreach Director, I rarely get to do farm chores, even though they are one of my most cherished ways to spend time at the sanctuary — second only to playing in the dirt with the animals!  Most of my day involves networking, recruiting new supporters, and planning special events. So, when Founder Kathy Stevens asked if I could round up some friends in New York City and other volunteers to work at the new farm, I was thrilled! I find farm chores — whether it’s tearing down old fences, scooping poop, digging drainage ditches, or painting a barn – [...]

I love my job, I’m lucky that way. Especially in the early morning: I always enjoy my quiet time before anyone else gets in. The barn is dark and quiet and I can whisper good morning, listening to the soft (and not so soft) greetings in return. This past Tuesday turned out to be a particularly special morning. CAS had recently taken in a pregnant mare in less than wonderful shape. We knew she was due soon, so we were bringing her into the barn at night and turning her out during the day. It was looking like it was time to [...]