War Angel Farms Rescues Horses From Kill Pens, BLM Gathers Over 14,000

More than 14,500 wild horses and burros were scheduled for removal by the Bureau of Land Management in fiscal year 2026. The agency stated that gathering these animals protects herd health and public rangelands. However, the number has renewed scrutiny over the final destination of wild horses after they leave the range.

In Canton, Georgia, Casey Montana operates War Angel Farms, a 100-acre family property that rescues animals primarily from kill pens in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Rumor, a pregnant and malnourished quarter horse, arrived at the farm after being held in a kill pen. Montana traced a tattoo on the animal's lip to identify her former career as a racing horse.

"It just shows you that any kind of horse can end up at a kill pen," Montana said. The farm also took in Birdie, a foal born the night her mother was dropped off at a kill pen. Birdie was five days old upon arrival and spent three months on medication to treat respiratory and immune-system issues.

Advocates for wild horses have raised concerns that government-sold horses might be resold and exported for slaughter. The BLM maintains that it does not sell or send horses to slaughter. Montana's work at War Angel Farms began approximately 10 years ago when she purchased Mr. Bojangles from a kill pen. He died three months later.

"Couldn't save him. Tried really hard. He was such a big part of my heart," Montana said. The loss motivated her to continue the rescue work. The property now houses goats, pigs, donkeys, and Ringo, an 80-pound African spurred tortoise rescued in New York.

The farm also functions as a community service site for individuals battling addiction, mental health challenges, and veterans. People convicted of DUI offenses also perform service there to connect with the animals. Montana noted that the work provides healing for both the animals and the participants.

Montana's father, a Vietnam Marine, helped construct the farm's roads, fences, and pastures. He taught Montana that farm life requires a large heart. When discussing his legacy, Montana said, "Because this was his heaven on earth," and paused before adding that she believes he would be proud of its growth.