It is not uncommon for the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control’s Call and Dispatch Center to receive calls to pick up stray dogs found running loose in the community. However, stray horses…..??

In August 2011, a large, bay colored thoroughbred horse was walking along the street in the western portion of the city of Lancaster.

There was no rider, saddle, or any indication he might have simply slipped away from his owner. “When our officers arrived to pick him up from a neighbor who had taken him in, they noticed he was thin and had a large infected wound on his jaw,” said Marcia Mayeda, Director for the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control. “Despite his condition and being alone, he was in good spirits and happy to see our officers,” Mayeda said.

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The horse, nicknamed “Capone” (photo below) by Animal Care Center staff and volunteers, was examined by a veterinarian and found to be thin with overgrown and cracked hooves. The wound was a badly infected 12” laceration, exposing his jaw bone. Treatment began immediately on 18 year-old Capone, which consisted of administering a daily dose of antibiotic ointment, hydro-therapy, cleaning and dressing the wound. Staff also treated his hooves and increased his caloric intake. “We took turns providing his daily care,” said Sgt. Montez-Kemp of the Lancaster Animal Care Center. “He seemed to love the attention.”

“Capone’s care team included myself, Animal Control Officer William Saunders and Animal Shelter Aid Edward Callaway. It was a lot of work, but well worth it. Capone’s laceration has completely healed and he has put on weight,” Montez-Kemp said.

The Department is looking for a new, permanent home for Capone. Anyone interested in adopting Capone is asked to call the Lancaster Animal Care Center at (661) 940-4191.  “He’s become a part of the family at the Lancaster Animal Care Center, but really needs a permanent, loving home to call his own,” Mayeda said.

For more information on animals available for adoption, or to get involved as a volunteer, visit their website at www.animalcare.lacounty.gov.