MISSING EQUINE Hercules,

Summary of Chris's letter to SHI -- I needed a place to board a stud and and a mare.  I saw an ad in "The Guide", a Delaware advertising publication and called.  We reached an agreement and I still dropped off  feed and hay, when he was supposed to provide.  The man inquired about the worth of Hercules.  I went on my trip with plenty of feed and one months board in the boarders hands.  I was later told all the horses were sick. There was a period of confusion between the boarding owner, vet and animal control who were checking on Hercules and Jenny.   I was on my way back East to pick up the horses.   I called from Illinois and told him I would be there the next day.  Thirty minutes later I received a call from this man saying, "he just killed over dead".   I told him I wanted to draw blood, take pictures and get an autopsy.  He let me know that was not going to happen.   When I get there to pick up my other horses he informed me that I owed him for feed, fill dirt and backhoe services.  I asked for a bill and was told to get off his property.  I did not believe and still do not believe he died because of all the surrounding circumstances.  When I tried to get a court order to dig him up the man said he was not there.  I went to a lawyer (who was very familiar with this man), State Police Barracks E. in Salisbury, who said I would have to prove he was stolen.  Several other horses were stolen in the area about the same time that Hercules 'died'.  I have since heard this man was in a horse theft ring.  I have made numerous calls to all types of agencies and have hit dead ends.  My only choice now is to find Hercules.  

Please post a flyer in your area so we can see if Hercules can be found.   

Note from SHI:   SHI is not taking sides in this case but are reporting the side that has been reported to us.  We do know this could happen to anyone who boards horses.  We have had many similar reports over the years of horses dying while in the care of another facility or person.  Facility caregivers provide no proof of death other than their word.  How can you protect yourself?  Here are a few ideas you can include in your contract.  Be creative depending on your personal situation and add what is necessary to protect you and your horse.

• Do not leave a horse(s) at any facility, even if it is someone you know, without a written, sign and dated contract.
• Be specific as to the duties of the boarding facility and the boarder on the care and feeding of the animal.
• Make sure you have visitation rights written into the contract
• Vet care will be provided if horse is sick and all records of said visit shall be provided to the owner
• There should be a clause that if the horse should die there can be no disposal of the body without:  1. Contacting the owner  2.) Taking pictures of deceased animal  and 3) Receipts of disposal services provided to owner

Do your work first and then leave your horse.  Don't set yourself up to become a victim with little to no avenue to find justice.  The laws are not as clear cut as you may think.  Ask Chris.