ASPCA Provides $20,000 Grant to Southeast Llama Rescue

NEW YORK--The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced a $20,000 grant to Southeast Llama Rescue (SELR) to help transport approximately 300 of 650-plus llamas from Montana Large Animal Sanctuary and Rescue in Niarada, Mont., to foster homes across the country. The llamas were among more than 1,000 animals left abandoned and severely neglected on the defunct sanctuary, which closed down in December 2010.

"The ASPCA was deeply saddened to hear about the suffering these animals have endured," said Allison Cardona, director of Operations for ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. "We're glad we were able to assist Southeast Llama Rescue and other members of the Camelid Rescue Coalition in the removal of the remaining llamas left on the property. It's encouraging to see so many groups working together to rescue animals in desperate need of food, medical care, and socialization."

The Camelid Rescue Coalition is working to transport the remaining llamas to foster facilities in various states including California, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Illinois, Colorado, Indiana, New York, New Mexico, Missouri, Washington, Utah, and Texas. Agencies from across the country joined efforts to help in the removal of various animals such as llamas, horses, goats, bison, camels, and emus from the sanctuary.

The llamas will be held in foster facilities for at least 45 days to address any medical issues and provide rehabilitation, according to SELR. The animals will eventually be placed in permanent homes once treatment is completed.

For more information on how to help, or to adopt a llama, please visit the following websites:

www.southeastllamarescue.org; www.southwestllamarescue.org; or www.northeastllamarescue.blogspot.com