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Danville, VA -
The economy isn't only affecting people, it's affecting animals too. Danville humane society officials say high hay prices have led to an increase in "horse neglect" in Virginia. They received several phone calls, leading them to a home in Pittsylvania County where they discovered 18 horses in a barren pasture. Three of them are now at the humane society, while two others already have a good home.
Leslie Kendrick, Adopting A Horse - "Just being out here with the horses, it's natural, you're out there on the farm, it's just something about it."
But for these three horses, what should be ordinary is actually, a luxury.
Paulette Dean, Danville Humane Society - "It was a large field that they were in, but there was nothing, no pasture no grass to eat and there was no hay available, when we went there they didn't have water."
And that breaks Matt and Leslie Kendrick's hearts.
Matt and Leslie Kendrick - "We don't want to see animals neglected or abused."
So, they decided they want to adopt one -- Leslie already has some experience,
Leslie - "Growing up on the farm I had horses, goats chickens cows, rabbits lambs all of them so I know what it means."
And Matt, is ready to learn.
Matthew Kendrick, Adopting A Horse - "It's going to be something new for me because I haven't been around horses a lot in my life but it's going to be fun I think."
For them, it's about helping a horse in need.
Leslie - "I love animals, I've always loved them they can't fend for themselves, they have to rely on us to help take care of them."
When its owner just couldn't.
Dean - "He said that hay prices are so high, and we're hearing that more and more, it's a crisis situation for horses in Virginia now."
The owners say they'll be able to take care of the other 13 horses, but the humane society will continue to check on the animals.
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