Standing Ovation by Ovation Riding

The Brooke is aiding working equines affected by Guatemala’s recent volcanic activity.

Horses in a “hot zone” around the volcano. Photo courtesy of The Brooke.

The deadly eruption of the Fuego volcano in Guatemala has killed over 100 people, and the death toll is expected to rise as rescue teams continue to work in the area with several hundred people still missing. The most dangerous phase of the eruption, which started on June 3 and continued for several days, is now regarded as the deadliest in Guatemala since 1929.

Numerous international aid groups are working to assist displaced people who evacuated and whose homes may be destroyed, as well as the estimated 1.7 million people in Guatemala who will be indirectly affected by the Fuego eruption. And for the working equines of Guatemala, The Brooke spearheaded fundraising efforts abroad, working with its local partner Fundación Equinos Sanos Para el Pueblo.

The Brooke’s mission is to assist the world’s working equines by providing veterinary care, plus the critical component of education for owners to improve working conditions. This can range from first aid and basic health care to better-fitting harness and load capacity for carrying or pulling. The Brooke does not aim to “take away” working animals, but work with owners in what are often impoverished, developing nations to educate and assist.

The Brooke’s efforts in Guatemala have been ongoing since 2006, working with Fundación Equinos Sanos Para el Pueblo (ESAP). In the current crisis, The Brooke is also networking with World Horse Welfare to coordinate efforts in order to work effectively.

According to updates from The Brooke, ESAP was able to get into some of the “hot zones” around Fuego on Wednesday to assist animals in distress. With pasture and water sources contaminated by ash and debris, working equines are now suffering from digestive distress as well as burns, wounds, eye infections and stress. Crops intended for animal feed have been destroyed, so ESAP is working to secure feed as well, networking with other organizations on the ground.

The Brooke’s fundraiser for Guatemala’s working equines, in partnership with Brooke USA, was so successful that the organization actually closed fundraising efforts early as the amount raised was estimated to cover ESAP’s emergency expenses in the crisis period. Follow The Brooke on Facebook for continued updates from Guatemala.

Many thanks thanks to Ovation Riding for their support of both Horse Nation and individuals and organizations that are doing good work in the horse world. If you know someone who deserves a Standing Ovation, we would love to recognize them in a future post. Email the name of the person or organization along with a message about the good work they do to [email protected]. Photos/videos are always welcome, and include a link to their website if applicable.