Horse & Halo and Idaho Horse Rescue Lead the Fight in Major Wyoming Cruelty Case
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2025 at 10:30 AM MDT
Idaho — In a remarkable display of determination and collaboration, Idaho-based equine rescues Horse & Halo and Idaho Horse Rescue have intervened to save 23 neglected horses from a large-scale animal cruelty case in Wyoming. With equine welfare resources already stretched thin, these organizations have gone above and beyond to ensure as many horses as possible receive the care and protection they need.
A Dire Situation in Wyoming
The case centers around James Purdom, who was investigated for more than 20 counts of animal cruelty and neglect, but to date, he has not faced any charges or fines. Purdom’s effort to avoid animal neglect and cruelty charges in Wyoming triggered a desperate situation for pregnant mares, yearlings, and stallions—most of which are unhandled, underdeveloped due to lack of nutrition, and have never received veterinary care. As a result, many could have ended up in the slaughter pipeline or in the hands of individuals unable to provide proper care.
Among the first horses at risk was a four-year-old mare suffering from severe medical issues. With no resources to care for her, Purdom planned to shoot her. Recognizing the urgency, Horse & Halo negotiated her surrender, and Idaho Horse Rescue immediately sought medical attention. This intervention set off a series of actions that ultimately saved her, along with 22 other horses, from dire circumstances.
The Battle to Save More Horses
As the case unfolded, Purdom surrendered seven additional horses, which Idaho Horse Rescue took in, ensuring their safety and access to veterinary care. Purdom also sold 15 horses to a private buyer, while others remained in the care of a family member. However, Horse & Halo was determined to prevent any more horses from slipping through the cracks.
When efforts to secure the remaining horses stalled with the private buyer, Horse & Halo pursued further negotiations. Their goal was clear: to prevent horses from being privately sold without proper veterinary care, stallion gelding, or safe handling. One of these horses was in desperate need of life-saving surgery. To ensure their safety, Horse & Halo arranged to purchase seven of the most vulnerable horses from the private buyer for $1,500, as it was clear there was no other option. Shortly after, family members surrendered the remaining nine, including pregnant mares.
After a month of tireless work, their combined efforts resulted in 23 out of nearly 39 horses receiving a second chance at life. Without the intervention from Horse & Halo and Idaho Horse Rescue, many of these animals would have faced uncertain—and likely tragic—fates.
The Harsh Reality
This rescue effort sheds light on the growing crisis facing Idaho’s equine rescue organizations. With increasing cases of neglect and abandonment, local rescues are struggling to keep up with the demand for shelter, medical care, and rehabilitation.
"All six weanlings we took in were underweight, malnourished, and covered in parasites," said Executive Director Mandie Stuhan of Horse & Halo. "These young horses had already endured so much. Without immediate intervention, their chances of ending up in the wrong hands were high."
The situation also highlights a broader problem: the lack of strong enforcement of animal welfare laws across state lines. Wyoming’s inaction placed the burden on Idaho’s rescue groups, forcing them to scramble for resources to manage the influx of neglected horses.
How You Can Help
Horse & Halo and Idaho Horse Rescue cannot continue this life-saving work alone. Community support is critical in ensuring these horses receive the care they need and deserve. Here’s how you can help:
Donate – Every dollar goes toward medical care, feed, and rehabilitation. Make a Donation.
Foster – Temporary homes are urgently needed to provide these rescued horses with a safe and nurturing environment. Foster a Horse in Need.
Send Supplies – Provide food, medical supplies, and care items by shopping from Horse & Halo’s Amazon Wishlist or Chewy Wishlist.
Spread Awareness – Advocate for stronger animal protection laws and educate others about the plight of neglected horses. Share to Facebook.
For more information on how to support these efforts, visit:
A Future of Hope for Rescued Horses
Despite overwhelming challenges, the perseverance of Horse & Halo and Idaho Horse Rescue demonstrates what is possible when compassionate individuals refuse to turn a blind eye to suffering. By stepping in where others failed, they have not only saved 23 lives but also shone a light on the urgent need for reform in animal welfare policies.
With continued support from the community, these organizations can ensure that every horse has a chance at a safe and healthy future. The fight for equine welfare is far from over, but with dedicated efforts and public backing, hope remains alive for countless Idaho horses in need.
Media Inquiries
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Horse & Halo
Email: thehorseandhalo@gmail.com
Phone: (208) 505-8772
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