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Two Horses surrendered during Johnston County Cruelty Case
October 27, 2009:
Two horses found running at large in Johnston County this past week were surrendered by the owner when he was located.  Both are very thin, with one (now named "Elliot") battling from infected saddle sores along his withers and back and both with infected "scratches" on their hind pasterns.  Johnston County asked for assistance in housing and rehabilitation and they are now at a USERL quarantine foster farm receiving much needed nutrition and medical attention. 
November 21, 2009:
After battling severe infections from the saddle sores, Elliott is now gaining weight and much brighter and alert.  His nature is quiet and patient.  He tolerated painful scrubbings of his back with little fuss, although it was apparent that it didn't feel good!  Elliott is tattooed, but the Jockey Club could not find a match for the partial tattoo number.  It also doesn't match any Standardbred tattoos. 
Sam is doing much better after his severe scratches began healing.  He's more active, but also a sweetie with a kind nature.   Both have enjoyed freedom roaming the farm to graze after clearing quarantine.  They are always within a few feet of one another. 
Sam (on left) and Elliot (on right) get some loving attention from the NCSU Collegiate Horseman's Association members who spent a Saturday afternoon cleaning a quarantine/rehab foster barn and caring for USERL horses.
Elliot (left) and Sam (right) out grazing.  They are never far from each other.

March 1, 2010:
Sam and Elliott have been slowing gaining weight - and sass!  Both are doing very well, and Elliott's infected saddle sore on the withers has finally cleared up after several months of draining.  Below are photographs, courtesy of a professional photographer -
Abbie Cooke (www.chariotcreative.com).
Abbie came out before Christmas to do these photos and they really capture their personalities.  They have since gained more weight, and have just recently been moved to a wonderful foster home where they can remain together to finish their rehabilitation.  Enjoy!
Sam - December/2009
Elliott - such a dear fellow!  December/2009
Elliott (left) and Sam (right), as usual - side by side.
December/2009

May 20, 2010:
Sam and Elliott are doing wonderful, thanks to the great care by their foster - Christi Jones.  They must think they are in dreamland in their picture-perfect pasture with beautiful shade trees, plentiful grass and a pond to wade in!  Elliott's lameness issues look to be resolved with good nutrition and care.  And Sam is a butterfall!  Sam still shadows Elliott, but it is believed now that they could be separated and easily buddy up with other horses.
Above, their foster caregiver gives them their daily treats which Sam and Elliott (in foreground) are very much "gentlemen" in waiting patiently for them.
On right, Elliott and Sam graze side by side. 
Both of them will be evaluated to determine their level of saddle training in the next few months, although the foster is going to have a tough time letting these sweet boys go!