The Dismal Economy Effects Everyone

Link: http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/03/22/homeless.horses/index.html

This article serves as a reminder that the current economy is hard on everyone, even the animals. And horses, who have high costs associated with them, are some of the hardest hit. It is truly tragic to think of people having to give up their beloved animals, many of whom are like family members. Hopefully some of these families will be able to reclaim their horses when their situation improves.
A common misconception with horses is that they can just be turned loose and they'll be fine on their own. The trouble is that a) these horses do not have the fine-tuned instincts of their ancestors (they haven't needed them before) b) horses need the company and protection of a herd, which means they'll have to find one c) it's illegal and d) life for wild horses is dangerous. It's better for horses to be taken to rescue centers than simply left by the side of the road.
Finally, I found it truly horrible that some of the horses given up by their owners are being euthanized. I hope that in these cases every other possible alternative has been considered. Even in these cases I am horrified. For these animals to have to die because of human's problems is to me truly very upsetting.
I can only hope that we'll start pulling out of this recession soon. For the sake of everyone involved.