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Report Abuse
Western Montana Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation receives
numerous calls regarding equines in distress. Please know that WMERR is not in
a position to intervene without a request from the owner. Report suspected
abuse to local law enforcement. WMERR will assist authorities when requested
to do so.
Ravalli
County Sherriff:
Non emergency
(406-375-4060)
After
hours (406-363-3033)
Our local
authorities are the best avenue when you feel there is cause to report a
situation. In Montana, the ability for law enforcement to step in varies from
county to county. Having in hand as much information as possible is very
helpful when speaking to law enforcement. Always be respectful and
courteous. Not every officer is knowledgeable regarding equines and the
condition they should be in. Be patient.
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We cannot legally
go on to private property without the owner's consent. We cannot legally feed
someone else's equines. We can try to visit with the situation to offer help
in some way.
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If you see
someone physically abusing an animal (withholding food/water,
beating/whipping etc), taking a video and/or pictures is the best.
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In the winter
months, assessing an equine's condition can be very difficult because of their
hair coat. Long hair hides ribs and other telling signs of insufficient
feed.
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In our county
alone, around 200 calls are received each month regarding equines and
suspected abuse.
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