Horse refuge near Sundre is full and fielding more calls

A couple that takes in neglected and abandoned horses near Sundre saidthey're getting more calls lately from people who can no longer afford to care for their animals.

"We had threeemails this week from people that were, they're in desperation,they'vejust run out of money," said Mike Bartley, who has runBear Valley Rescue for 12 years with his wife Kathy.

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He said amongthe recent requests, one woman was in the middle of an expensive divorce, while another lost her job.

"When you are trying to put groceries on the table, a horse is a luxury item," he said.

'Donations would be great'

The nature of the couple's work has shifted over the years, from scouring auctions and feedlots to savinghorses, to fielding calls from those who can't take care of animal. They alsoworkwith law enforcement and the SPCA to shelter horses.

"It used to be that I felt it was more of a service for the horses and now it's becoming for people, too. They need us to help them out. But it's hard, we're so full," said Mike.

The couple is maxed out, with150 horsesplus another 50 in foster care, and are looking for help.

The biggest concern for the couple is the cost of hay. Last year, it was in short supply and prices more than doubled, resulting in a $120,000 hay bill that drained the Bartley'scash reserves.

"Donations would be great, donations of hay would be wonderful," said Mike.

The Bartleyswould alsowelcome cash, volunteers, sponsors, or even those who can adopt a horse.