I copied this from another board for once its good news
Demeter
Posted 2006-06-12 10:26 AM (#1170589)
Subject: STOLEN HORSES - LESSONS LEARNED!
We are the people who had a roping horse stolen (along with traveling partner Ralph Taton) from the National Roper's Supply facility in Decatur TX over Memorial Day weekend. These horses have been recovered - due to diligence of horse owners all over the country so our heartfelt appreciation to everyone.
The best we can piece together, the horses were taken after dark. When they were seen in the light and it became apparent that they were branded, the horses were dumped in the Decatur football field. The local animal control officer picked them up a few hours later (within 4 hours of their disappearance) but neglected to tell anyone - not even the sheriff! A roper drove by the pasture owned by the a.c. officer a week after they went missing, saw the horses, and immediately contacted the Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers brand inspector (these guys are aggressive, professional and our hats off to them). Both horses are now at their homes. The exceptional event people at the NRS facility took very good care of them until transportation was arranged.
Thought it would be helpful to share the lessons we learned:
1. Permanent, easily visible identification is vital! We are strong advocates of freeze branding. They are visible from a good distance, only minimally uncomfortable for the horse, and are permanent.
2. Be able to describe your horses in detail - their markings, brand(s), age, etc. Ideally, have photos from front, back, and both sides. The brand inspector told us the vast majority of cases he works on are tough because the owners can't give a description of their animal.
3. Get the word out ASAP to everyone you can think of! Of course, file reports with the local authorities, brand inspection, etc. But ask lots of questions-what are their next steps? Tell them what you are doing, too. Give their contact information in your communications. Email is phenomenal - its a domino effect. Contact your local media - radio, tv, newspapers - and ask them to help.
Thank you so much again to everyone - JOHN & SHARLET TEIGEN CAPITOL, MONTANA
