We provide equine rescue regardless of age or disability. We take in animals from law enforcement seizures and owner surrenders throughout Virginia. We strive to give equines a second chance at life through rehabilitation, and finding them new, well-matched adoptive homes. We are dedicated to working with our future horse owner generation, teaching them proper equine care, and hope to prevent future rescue situations through this venture. We provide community outreach through specific programs including Books at the Barn and our veterans’ program. We hold open houses to help create awareness of the need for equine rescue, and to provide a loving caring environment for people who want to spend time with our residents. Since 2008, Hope’s Legacy has rescued 345 horses, donkeys, mules and minis throughout Virginia. But most often we are called to rescue our nearest neighbors – 54% have come from 4 counties: Albemarle, Orange, Nelson and Augusta. In a typical year, 50% of our rescues come from law enforcement seizures and 50% come from owner surrenders. But since the pandemic hit, we have seen a huge surge in owners surrendering their animals because of financial, medical or family crises. Typically this owner is a woman, over 60 years of age, low-to middle-income, and owns more than one equine. Our goal for 2021 is to increase capacity (fenced pastures) to take in 30% more horses than we did last year.
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