by Nicole Ethier and Sarah MacDonald – Mar. 26, 2009 02:39 PM
The Arizona Republic

Nearly $14,000 has been raised for the horse that was found abandoned and badly injured near a boarding facility in Mesa earlier this month.
The 6-year-old male thoroughbred, known as Solo Vino, was found March 3 near Bates and Mesa drives. The horse was severely malnourished and had swollen legs, over-grown hooves and a three-inch head gash that exposed its skull.

The animal underwent surgery almost a week later and is still about 150 pounds underweight. Karen Pomroy, the president and founder of Equine Voices Rescues and Sanctuary, said Vino Solo is doing well but still has a long way to go. He may never be rideable because of his severe leg condition.

Additionally, she said she has been amazed by the public response to his plight.

“There is no way I could have done this without the public’s support,” Pomroy said. “It was definitely a collective effort. He probably would have died if we didn’t step in.”

Vino Solo is currently in a foster home in Mesa with Gwen Cleary, the woman who brought the horse to Pomroy’s attention.

Pomroy says in the next few weeks the veterinarian will be checking on him again, but it will take time before he recovers and is able to be adopted. Donations are still being accepted to cover his continued veterinary and care costs.

Anyone interested in donating may visit equinevoices.org and anyone interested in adopting Solo Vino may contact Pomroy at 520-398-2814.