Horse Rescue, Relief and Retirement Fund, Inc.
The mission of The Horse Rescue, Relief & Retirement Fund, Inc. (HRRRFI) is to improve the quality of life for all horses and thereby improve the lives of people through their human band with horses. They are committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of horse and equine suffering from abuse and to the successful retirement of working horses and equine. They also aim to improve the public awareness and knowledge of the standards of care necessary to keep equines healthy and safe.
Our Mission and Philosophy is Reflected in our Programs
Equines have an ability to improve the quality of life, health and well being for people with disabilities. Through therapeutic and enjoyable equine activities, riders learn horsemanship that stimulates physical, mental and emotional growth. Their “Dreams of Courage” program uses the rescued horses to help disabled children and adults improve their lives through the movement and involvement with these horses. On the back of a horse, a disabled person becomes equal and rides beside able-bodied persons. Working with horses can also give a therapeutic effect on people struggling with psychological problems.
In their ongoing attempt to establish equine rescue services, it became apparent that the level of equine knowledge and care amongst equine owners often does not measure up to the standard of care necessary to keep a horse healthy and safe. The HRRRFI offers ongoing educational classes and clinics for horse owners and enthusiasts, as well as for their volunteers.
Their primary goal is to save the horses (see www.SaveTheHorses.org). They do rescues at all times, but particularly in times of despair and crisis. Their organization is made up of volunteers with a mission to stop horses from being sent to slaughter or abuse. With that in mind, they have made the commitment that any horse sent there will not be sold or sent to slaughter. They will, however, have equines put down humanely, if the quality of life is suffering.
Background
The Horse Rescue, Relief and Retirement Fund, Inc. was created to address the urgent need for rescue services and equine public education. They are an all-volunteer organization operating solely on tax-deductible donations to their 501(c) 3 non-profit corporation.
Did you know?
Over 90,000 American horses are slaughtered each year for Human Consumption overseas.
Bravo’s Story:
“Bravo was born on a Shire breeding farm in Illinois. The breeder usually sent his unwanted horses to the DeKalb, IL slaughter plant but it burned down and would remain closed for two and a half years. We were able to buy Shires from the feedlot while the horses were waiting to be sent to Texas slaughter plants. We adopted out the other Shires but kept Bravo as our mascot to teach people about the plight of America’s horses. Here was a one-year-old, healthy Shire colt being sent to a brutal end when his life had only just begun. Bravo has loved every minute of life since he arrived at the Rescue. For us to continue to help horses like Bravo, we need your help. We can only continue if you care and you give.”
“We take in horses that are lame, old, sick, blind, starved and abused. We have draft horses to dwarf miniatures, donkeys and mules. We also take in very healthy rideable horses. All their lives have equal value and they all deserve caring homes. They all deserve food, water, shelter and companionship. Horses have served humans for centuries. They have fought in our wars, helped us conquer nations, and remain our gentle companions. Without donations, we would have to close our barn door to the needy horses. Help us keep the doors open. Help us find a permanent sanctuary.”
For more information, please visit www.savethehorses.org
Riding Into Your Mythic Life: Transformational Adventures With The Horse by Patricia Broersma
Heart Connections and the Healing Power of Horses by Bonnie Treece