The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) announced on Feb. 4 that it awarded $1,055,400 in the form of 93 grants to support equine rescue groups in 32 states in 2010.

"Thanks to the continued public support of the ASPCA Equine Fund, we were able to award the most funding we've ever granted in a single year in 2010," said Jacque Schultz, senior director of community outreach for the ASPCA. "We intend to continue our strong commitment to equine rescue and welfare efforts in 2011."

More than 32% of the grants awarded to equine groups in 2010 will be used to complete various capital improvements so the rescue groups can safely care for more horses. Another 23% of the grants awarded helped provide groups with emergency supplies of hay. An additional 17% went toward helping groups provide care for the horses apprehended in seizures of 12 horses or more.

The ASPCA also launched the Million Dollar Rescuing Racers Initiative in 2010, the first year of a three-year drive to help retired racehorses. Six organizations received initial disbursements from the ASPCA to enable them to expand their programs and make facility improvements, all in an effort to care for more retired racehorses