HAPPY HORSE HAVEN RESCUE

ABOUT US:  Happy Horse Haven Rescue, located on 145 acres in Goldthwaite, Texas, is a 501c3 public charity and a fully volunteer organization. It began in 2005 and has been operated since then by the full-time efforts of Founder and President, Shari Frederick, and a wide range of regular and short-term volunteers. All donations are used directly for the needs of the animals. Please see the Donate page to learn more about supporting this important work. 

HHH Rescue by the numbers: 2005 - present

*Over 500 Equine rescued. 

*Nearly 375: Equine matched with forever adoption home.

*125 Approximate number of equine at Happy Horse Have Rescue yearly, under care for physical and emotional           rehabilitation prior to adoption, or life-long support needed for diverse reasons.

In 2005 I ran across a large herd of horses whose numbers were periodically and mysteriously dropping slowly within the herd, or so it seemed at the time. Knowing that unexplained things do happen to horses, I did not pursue the matter further. Over time the death toll rose and I became even more concerned. In my personal investigation, it was clear a "mixed herd" was being fed daily (so they said), but only once a day in one spot. Over 50 horses of mixed age, health, and hierarchy had to fight among themselves for feed. Those of you who really care about the well-being of horses know survival of the fittest rules in the horse world! Although I brought the need to separate the herd into more appropriate groups, at the very least for feeding, my desires were ignored. Sadly, more horses died (mostly from sheer starvation and neglect). Included among the deaths was a horse dear to me: Bobby Sock Doc. I played bugle from Bobby's back at trail ride events. He proudly led us safely in "charge", or the "call to mess" (gather for lunch). Too little too late, I insisted they care for the more emaciated and senior horses immediately. To my surprise I was told "you care so much-you take 'em", so I did. Due to the age & health of these particular horses, they remained here at Happy Horse Haven (the rescue’s name as it became the following year) until passing naturally of old age. Since this starting group, we have rescued over 500 equines. Almost all of the horses at Happy Horse Haven Rescue are adoptable to qualifying competent, loving, caring homes. All adopters become a part of the HHH family. Most adopters share fun photos and updates, if not they are contacted regularly.  We visit in person periodically, or send a representative to check horses on our behalf, as well. An adoption contract is signed which includes a declaration that no horse will be knowingly sold to slaughter. A "return clause" is included when horses can no longer be cared for, as well as discussion for designating  "upon death" where the horse goes at that time. Every measure is taken to provide for a healthy, happy and safe future for adopted Happy Horse Haven Rescue horses!