Hope for Horses

Hope for Horses is a haven for equines who may have special needs and who deserve responsible, loving homes. Our hope is to provide horse owners an alternative when they are no longer able to care for a horse for whatever reason. Hope for Horses was established in 1998 to provide permanent placement alternatives for the equine population of Western North Carolina. This need became more apparent as horse owners were no longer able or willing to care for their horses, whether strong and healthy or neglected and unwanted. A long-term dream of founder Whitney Wright, Hope for Horses was given life largely due to the services of Dr. Ann Stuart and Dr. Ted Wright of Appalachian Equine Veterinary Service, located in Barnardsville, North Carolina. Their never-ending support provides the necessary medical care for horses donated to the program. The additional support of approximately sixty-five dedicated volunteers and numerous local contributors enables this dream to continue. As our mission statement spells out, we provide alternatives to horse owners in hopes of reducing the number of horses purchased by killer buyers. Many of these horses are in excellent condition, but in most cases due to their ages or certain limitations they are in jeopardy of 'slipping through the cracks.' They eventually find their way to the local auction where killer buyers often purchase them for the horrific process of equine slaughter. While we believe there is a time and a place for euthanasia, we are steadfast in our belief that every horse deserves a safe and happy retirement whenever possible.