As a small group of people who comprise the Greene County Humane Society, we work very hard to help this county's unwanted, neglected and abused animals.

We deal mostly with dogs and cats. But this year, we've faced a major problem with horses. Too many didn't get enough to eat. Some died of starvation before anyone called us for help.

We have rescued 10 horses, and seen to it that 15 more were taken out of a horrible, neglectful situation.

It's no secret we are a small, poor animal shelter with very little extra money. But we can't turn our backs on these animals.

To help us care for them, we are asking for your help. A special Equine Fund has been set up at Regions Bank in Linton. Donations may also be brought or mailed to the Greene County Humane Society, R.R. 4, Box 323, Linton, Ind., 47441. Please make sure your check is marked "For Equine Fund." Believe me, every dollar is appreciated.

If you have any hay to spare, we definitely could use it. Small "square" bales are easier for us to handle. Sweet feed (made for horses only), salt blocks and mineral tubs are also needed.

We are grateful to our hard-working Animal Control Officer, Jamie NIcholson, as well as Paul and Julie Gibson and others who foster horses for us; Dr. Ray Whitman for his assistance, and other volunteers. I'm sure if these horses could talk, they would bless each one of you.

In trying to place these horses, we have made inquiries with horse rescue centers. But unfortunately, many of them are full. This horse problem is, sadly, widespread in many states.

Our adoption policy is currently being revised. Once that's done, you may be able to adopt a horse from us. More about that later.

It's been a tough winter for many horses. Hay was very expensive. Some people couldn't -- or wouldn't -- buy enough hay to get their animals through the winter. Some just had way too many horses. In those cases, I wish someone would explain why they kept them and let them starve, rather than sell them. Grade horses aren't worth much a the local auctions -- but keeping them without proper feed and shelter is inhumane.

Some people believe that -- given the price of fertilizer, gas and diesel fuel -- the price of hay may remain high. Time will tell.

We want to thank everyone for the donations that have already come in. And a big thanks to Hobie Harrison, ASAI sponsor, and the Linton-Stockton Junior High School students for their "Penny Wars" fundraiser. They worked hard, and raised an amazing $566.49.

Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Lana is president of the Greene County Humane Society. She can be reached by e-mail at lanabanana478@yahoo.com