Update on Bruce, the Rescued Iowa Carriage Horse

Many moons ago, my friend Coby lived on a horse farm where they kept some very large horses. I recall needing a step ladder, with many steps, just to climb onto one of these majestic creatures. Each year, around the holidays (sometimes Thanksgiving, sometimes Christmas) Coby’s dad would harness up a magnificent horse named Zeus to pull a beautiful carriage through the streets, whenever the conditions were right. I remember someone once asked Mr. W about using his horses for regular carriage rides. With a stern look, he explained that many horses used for such purposes are often overworked, left standing on hot pavement, and not treated well. I'm sure his horses lived much better than most of us.  He may have liked them better too.

Recently, a situation unfolded in downtown Des Moines. A horse named Bruce, who was providing carriage rides along Court Avenue, was found to be severely malnourished and hundreds of pounds underweight. This situation drew the attention of both the police and animal services officials.

Historically, the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) has dealt with horse rescue cases primarily in rural areas. However, in this instance, multiple witnesses observed Bruce pulling a carriage in the heart of downtown Des Moines and realized something was seriously wrong. They promptly alerted the authorities.

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At the time of his rescue, Bruce was working under harsh 90-degree heat, and a veterinary examination revealed that he was about 500 pounds underweight.

Following Bruce’s rescue, Des Moines police charged his owner, Ramsey Zimmerman, with livestock neglect, a simple misdemeanor. Bruce was placed under the care of the ARL while a disposition hearing was held to determine his future. On July 12, a judge ruled that Bruce should not be returned to Zimmerman.

Since his rescue, Bruce has been steadily recovering under the ARL’s care. The ARL reports that he has already gained back around 100 pounds and continues to make significant progress.

For those who wish to support Bruce’s ongoing recovery and the ARL’s efforts, donations can be made through the ARL’s website.