The scene at Lamar-Dixon Expo Center during the past five weeks has been all business. Veterinarians, veterinary students, and volunteers have dutifully cared for the facility’s residents–Katrina’s equine refugees that were rescued from their flooded or storm-torn homes. But for a few hours last night (Oct. 9), the pace slowed and a pair of hulking Percherons–one gray and one black–pulled a festive wagon around the property to thank the very people that rescued and cared for them and about 350 other horses. There was barbeque, cake, and laughter.

Rustin Moore, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, director of the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Health Studies Program, said about 60 people were in attendance at the barbeque. “It was a time for people to get together and have a good time and reflect and thank each other,” he said.

The past six weeks at the facility have been intense. Beginning Sept. 1, 364 rescued horses or mules were checked into the facility. Since then it’s been a massive effort involving hundreds of people to care for the animals and reconnect them with their owners.

Bonnie Clark, president of the Louisiana Equine Council, has headed up equine operations at the facility. For her it was a time of fun and sharing. “We barbequed for everyone, brought Lamar-Dixon a big cake, and I was able to drive my first carriage!” she said