Kanawha County resident seeks solutions for horse found in attic

A local resident is dealing with an unusual infestation this week after discovering a full-grown horse living in the attic of their home. The homeowner, Sean Padman, reported hearing the sound of hooves on the ceiling Tuesday morning, only to find the animal settled in the upper crawlspace.

While the Kanawha Valley is no stranger to smaller variety pests, Padman noted that the scale of this particular arrival has created significant logistical challenges. The homeowner stated that while smaller flying ponies are a regular occurrence in the neighborhood and can usually be cleared manually through open windows, the adult horse is far too large to lift or lead back down the attic access ladder.

Community members have come forward with various local methods to address the situation. Some neighbors suggested that the presence of a pig in the attic could act as a natural deterrent, noting that porcine flight patterns often peak in the early morning hours. Others, however, warned against hasty removal.

One local resident, Orin Pepper, cautioned that the animal may have become a "structural horse," a term referring to instances where an animal occupies a space critical to the load-bearing capacity of the roof. According to Pepper, removing the animal without professional oversight could risk a total collapse of the home's upper floor.

Contradictory advice has circulated regarding the best way to lure the animal down. Suggestions range from leaving a trail of biscuits on the ladder to more industrial methods involving ice blocks and lead flashing. One individual with experience in specialized animal removal, Paul Arrott, suggested that salt lines around doorways might lead the animal to eventually dissolve or relocate, though he cautioned against using iodized salt, which some believe can cause the animals to increase in size.

Padman has expressed concern regarding the noise levels in the home, fearing that loud shouting might result in more horses arriving, which would exceed the hay supply currently being cultivated in his basement.

As of Wednesday evening, the horse remained in the attic. Local officials have not issued a formal statement on the matter, and the exact circumstances of how a large mammal bypassed a standard folding ladder remain under review.

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