After more than 30 tornadoes ravaged the Midwest and South last week, the Kentucky Horse Council is coordinating with the U.S. Equine Disaster Relief Fund to help horse owners.

“In the past, we have supported many victims of flooding and disasters in other states, and now it is Kentucky which needs this support. Our hearts and prayers go out to all who have been affected by this tragedy. The U.S. Equine Disaster Relief Fund will help Kentucky horse owners with temporary feed and fencing as they work to recover from this disaster,” KHC President Anna Zinkhon said.

The U.S. Disaster Relief Fund financially supports state and local efforts to feed and house affected horses in natural disasters. The KHC also responds to equine crises through the Save Our Horses Fund.

“We are also in touch with the Indiana Horse Council to determine the extent of the need there,” Zinkhon said.

The KHC has been contacting officials in the areas most affected by the tornadoes to assess the impact on horse owners.

“We are relieved that over the weekend horse organizations such as the Northern Kentucky Horse Network have already relayed important information among horse owners regarding temporary shelter and how to assist those victims who have horses. Buffalo Mounted Patrol has traveled to West Liberty, where the devastation was incredible, to patrol damaged areas until rescue efforts could be fully mobilized,” KHC Executive Director Ginny Grulke said.

The KHC is collecting financial donations to help support the relief efforts. To make a tax-deductible donation, visit the KHC website.