The Second Race is primarily concerned with race horses and ensuring that they have a place to go after their racing careers are over. However, there are several organizations and groups that support horses outside of racing that need to have their due on this blog, and the Redwings Horse Sanctuary is just one of those groups. I have supported them through a sponsorship of a horse that has since passed away and wanted to share their story and good work on behalf of neglected and abused equines.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary began in May 1991 as a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization in Carmel, California, with a mission to end the abuse, neglect, and slaughter of horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, and burros through rescue and foster care. In its first year, Redwings rescued 15 equines from abusive or life-threatening situations. Redwings staff then rehabilitated the equines and matched them with carefully-screened adoptive homes. Redwings also addressed educational, financial, and other factors behind equine neglect. The organization initiated several programs including an equine education program for new owners, and an equine medical assistance program for owners with low incomes.
Although these efforts saved many equines, Redwings realized that placing some abused equines in adoptive homes was not a solution. A number of the rescued animals had experienced such serious physical and psychological damage that complete rehabilitation was not possible. In the fall of 1992, Redwings broadened its scope to include permanent shelter for those equines, ensuring them a secure and life-long home at the Sanctuary. In 2000 Redwings moved to a 167-acre ranch in southern Monterey County, California. The entire Redwings family of 90 equines, three part-time and five full-time staff members completed the transition to the new Sanctuary in March 2002.
Today, Redwings rescues several horses from abusive or neglectful situations every year, giving them a permanent home. These horses act as ambassadors, helping Redwings educate the public about the plight facing horses. When practical and needed, Redwings helps horse owners who have difficulty caring for their horses to keep them by giving them educational or restricted financial support. Redwings spreads the message to the public through booths at several events through the year, a bimonthly newsletter, and this Web site.
Although these efforts saved many equines, Redwings realized that placing some abused equines in adoptive homes was not a solution. A number of the rescued animals had experienced such serious physical and psychological damage that complete rehabilitation was not possible. In the fall of 1992, Redwings broadened its scope to include permanent shelter for those equines, ensuring them a secure and life-long home at the Sanctuary. In 2000 Redwings moved to a 167-acre ranch in southern Monterey County, California. The entire Redwings family of 90 equines, three part-time and five full-time staff members completed the transition to the new Sanctuary in March 2002.
Today, Redwings rescues several horses from abusive or neglectful situations every year, giving them a permanent home. These horses act as ambassadors, helping Redwings educate the public about the plight facing horses. When practical and needed, Redwings helps horse owners who have difficulty caring for their horses to keep them by giving them educational or restricted financial support. Redwings spreads the message to the public through booths at several events through the year, a bimonthly newsletter, and this Web site.
If you are in the Northern California area on Saturday August 15 please join Redwings at their open house and photo safari. Meet the residents and caring staff at Redwings Horse Sanctuary.
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