29/10/2026
👉SRF ASSISTS SEIZED NYS HORSES
The Standardbred Retirement Foundation (SRF) is assisting the New York State Humane Association in finding foster homes for horses among the 25 seized by State Police in DeKalb, New York. On September 2, 2026, they were just 20 miles from the Canadian border; their destination was the Canadian slaughterhouse. The group included 13 identified Standardbred racehorses and at least two unbranded horses identified as Standardbreds, Drafts, and grades. New York’s law prohibits the transport of horses for slaughter.
While the case remains ongoing, foster homes are needed now. Adoption is possible as circumstances permit. These horses need compassionate people willing to provide a safe place to rest, recover, and receive gentle care. Some may require additional attention. Prospective fosters should be open to welcoming a horse as a companion rather than expecting a riding horse. This is about the horses. Only a few photos are shown. Several still need foster homes.
These horses were reportedly overheated, injured, and suffering from a respiratory infection; many were severely underweight. One Standardbred, Cascada, subsequently required euthanasia because of a serious medical condition. All received veterinary care. A few continue to receive treatment and are improving.
The New York State Humane Association and SRF, like many small animal protection organizations, have limited funds and rely on donations and volunteers. SRF already financially supports 463 trotters and pacers and cannot assume the care and expense of another horse at this time. SRF needs foster homes as well; nevertheless, it is helping where it can, including reaching out to its community to find suitable temporary care.
According to State Police, the horses belonged to Bruce Rotz of Rotz’s Livestock in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. SRF for many years had been saving as many as 800 Standardbreds annually, primarily from Rotz’s Livestock. In recent years, it has focused on other pens because, according to SRF, the Rotz family no longer permits the Foundation to intervene as it previously did.
This also raises a broader question about resources for animals seized through state law enforcement. According to the State Comptroller, New York collected more than $5.1 billion in gambling revenue during fiscal year 2025–2026. That figure includes lottery proceeds and receipts from several forms of gambling, including casinos, sports betting, and horse racing. Meanwhile, nonprofit organizations must seek donations and volunteers to meet the horses’ immediate needs when situations like this arise.
For these horses, being stopped before the border was only the beginning. They now need people willing to help them take the next step toward a safe and peaceful future. They have been released as of yesterday by Bruce Rotz, he no longer has claim to them.
👍To offer a foster home, email SRF at [email protected]. Placement will depend on each horse’s needs.
