Horse Guard Recognized For Assisting In Prevention Of Animal Cruelty

In a ceremony during weekly drill on July 15, the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard (2GHG)

received an Official Statement of Recognition from Governor M. Jodi Rell for boarding and caring for several horses and mules for the Department of Agriculture. The Department of Agriculture Animal Control Division also issued a Certificate of Appreciation for assistance in helping to prevent cruelty to Animals.

F. Philip Prelli, commissioner of agriculture, presented the awards to Major Gordon Johnson during first formation. Ray Connors, supervisor of State Animal Control, and Officers Barbara Godejohn and Nancy Jarvis also attended. Gov Rell’s statement said, in part, “Through the tireless efforts of the Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard … a cruelty complaint involving numerous horses and mules was put to rest … the Guard took several and housed them for four months where they were fed, cleaned, groomed, and cared for until they were healthy enough to be sent to the [University of Connecticut] spring Horse Auction. This is the second time the guard has helped the DOA with the boarding and nursing back to health for abused horses…”               

During the first four months of 2010, 2GHG Troopers fed, groomed, and cared for four horses and two mules. This meant feeding and watering each morning and afternoon, as well as grooming and cleaning up after the animals. Working with mules was new to the troop and, although they are endearing, they are definitely a bit hard to handle, according to Horse Guard officials. Troopers gamely took time to learn how to safely work with them, and although it meant many extra hours of volunteer time, everyone was excited to be part of this experience.

The Second Company Governor’s Horse Guard is a 100 percent volunteer organization, dedicated to preserving the history of the Cavalry in Connecticut. 2GHG Troopers run a Therapeutic Riding program and also a Trail Ride fundraiser for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.

This summer the Troop is also hosting a camp program one day a week for elementary students from Children’s Community School in Waterbury.

Upcoming events include the Annual Horse Show on July 25, participation in the Newtown Labor Day Parade and the Annual Open House on September 12. Check the website at www.thehorseguard.org for more information on events and to check our drill schedule. The 2GHG members remain, as always, “Ready to Serve.”