Kim Spicer, 18, began volunteering at a local Florida Research Institute for Equine Nurturing or F.R.I.E.N.D.S ranch in Pembroke Pines {19801 Sheridan St.] for the past few weeks and enjoys every minute of it.
She works with horses that have the blood disease known as equine infectious anemia. These horses aren’t sick, but carry antibodies that contain the virus. While humans can’t get sick from interacting with the horses, there is a one in six million chance one horse with EIA infecting another horse.
Despite the small number, Florida law requires positive EIA horses to be quarantined on property with a 200 yard radius from the nearest horse. Unfortunately this means the horse must be destroyed even if it’s healthy if proper arrangements aren’t made. Some stables that don’t have space to comply with this law have the horses killed.
That is why it’s so important for Spicer and others to volunteer in watering, feeding and cleaning of stalls. F.R.I.E.N.D.S was established as a nonprofit in 1987 as a place to house these horses and keeping them alive. Since then the organization has established the sponsor-a-horse program for people who would like to adopt a horse, but can’t afford it. The cost of adoption each month covers everything from food to board. The way it’s set up is kind of similar to a Humane Society for horses.
With the group losing a number of sponsors due to hurricanes and the economy, the organization looks for donations or people to adopt. Keeping this in mind, Spicer is trying to use her 12 years of girl scout experience and fundraising to help the ranch. She is looking to have Wal-Mart get involved by hosting an event and having the retail giant match the money raised, which can range to upwards of $500. The effort may not be a lot considering the amount of animals in need, but every little bit helps and can create awareness about the program.
For adoption, donation, or volunteering information call 954-916-9847 or 954-609-5943.
Equine Nurturing Volunteer Kim Spicer:
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