Photo: James Rojas / WBZ
ANDOVER, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) – A non-profit organization located in Essex County works to maintain the health and well-being of some notably small barnyard animals.
Miniature horses may be cute and adorable, but many people do not know they come with a lot of health problems. That’s where Lifting Spirits, a non-profit that helps horses with dwarfism, comes in.
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Founder Toni Hadad said these horses suffer a slew of health issues because of their pint-size stature. These range from issues from their bones, joints and teeth to liver failure and shorter lifespans.
“Even though a lot of people think they’re cute and adorable and they want one, they’re not supposed to be bred like this,” Hadad said. “We have them and keep them as comfortable as possible and as healthy as possible.”
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The organization also provides companionship to senior living centers and an education against bullying to kids at schools. By building these closer connections, the mini horses help others with struggles of their own.
“They can definitely bring down stress and anxiety levels,” Hadad added.
More information about Lifting Spirits and their work can be found on their website.
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