Equestrian Inc. Offers 2nd Chance for Unwanted Horses

The stables at Equestrian Inc.’s Northwest Hillsborough horse rescue are a bit overcrowded these days, but founder Glenda Smith doesn’t mind making space for the nonprofit’s newest guests.

The all-volunteer horse rescue recently took in four extra horses – bringing its number up to about 40 – after the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office seized several thoroughbreds from a woman in the Carrollwood area who had not been providing proper care for them.

Jolie is one of the four new horses at Equestrian Inc.’s Timberlan Street farm. She’s a thoroughbred that Smith says has royalty in her blood. As the daughter of Albert the Great, a champion who netted millions in winning during his days on the track, she deserves better than the treatment she has received, Smith said.

Jolie came to Smith earlier this week emaciated, malnourished and suffering from cuts. Her ribs show easily from her sides as she moves and her veterinary bills are mounting into the thousands, Smith said.

Smith took possession of Jolie’s other three stable mates on Wednesday, May 22 after sheriff’s office spokesman Det. Larry McKinnon said their owner voluntarily surrendered them. These three horses aren't in the same condition as Jolie, but Smith said they need some extra care to overcome neglect.

Charges of animal cruelty are pending in Jolie’s case, McKinnon said.

Equestrian Inc. volunteers hope to see Jolie reach a full recovery and find a new home where she’ll be properly cared for. That’s the hope for all the horses currently residing on the property, which is tucked off Gunn Highway near Four Oaks Road.

“We’re so hopeful this mare is going to pull through,” Smith said of Jolie, adding that she is eating well and seems to be a fighter.

Equestrian Inc. was founded about 30 years ago and has been serving as a nonprofit horse rescue for the last few years, Smith said. The organization survives off donations and does everything it can to rehabilitate horses like Jolie and get them adopted to families that will provide good homes and love, she said.

Smith has run horse rescues for years. Before moving into Northwest Hillsborough, she ran a rescue in the Land O' Lakes area, she said.

What’s Smith’s ultimate desire for Jolie?

“Her dignity needs to be restored,” Smith said.

To find out more about Equestrian Inc. and its mission to save unwanted horses from Hillsborough and beyond, just visit its website. Donations are accepted online, as well.

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Carrollwood Woman Nearly Starved Horse to Death, Deputies Say