Fire kills six horses used in therapy by disabled people
February 20, 2011 10:50:00 pm
by BRAD COOPER - The Kansas City Star
Mic, Foggy, Roper, Ditto, Tweety and Madam are no more.
The six horses that helped children and adults overcome their disabilities died in an early morning fire Sunday at Pine Dell Farm in Pleasant Hill.
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The fire occurred about 6 a.m. in a barn that housed horses for Sugar Creek Equinapy, which provides therapeutic riding lessons.
“This is tragic to the special-needs kids and riders. They learn to bond with these animals,” said Alice Meyer, a volunteer at the riding center who spoke on behalf of the owners.
The horses worked with children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities, Meyer said. The therapy helps riders learn balance, coordination, muscle use and how to follow instructions.
As many as 40 riders have been enrolled at the farm during the year.
On its website, the clinic said it planned to have grief counselors available for clients as they coped with the loss of their “beloved equine friends.”
“We ask for your prayers and support,” the site said.
The fire, which is under investigation, also destroyed the clinic’s riding equipment and grooming stalls.
Five horses and a miniature donkey that survived were in a pasture at the time of the fire.
The riding center is getting offers about where it might temporarily relocate, Meyer said.
“We have no intention of shutting down,” Meyer said. “We will figure it out.”
To reach Brad Cooper, call 816-234-7724 or send e-mail to bcooper@kcstar.com.
