24 hours, officers took shifts sleeping in their cars through freezing temperatures, staying on site to ensure the animals’ survival. They provided feed and fresh water to the suffering animals, doing everything they could to stabilize them while awaiting a judge’s signed warrant authorizing their removal. When that warrant was finally granted and the time came to move the equines to safety, they needed a trusted partner who could take in all five equines and manage the complexities of an equine cruelty case. Because of YOU, DEFHR IS that partner.
DEFHR had the resources to immediately accept the five equines. This small group included a 20-year-old jenny standard donkey, a 25-year-old intact jack miniature donkey, a 6-year-old intact jack hinny (a cross between a male horse and a female donkey), a 12-year-old mare Thoroughbred, and a 26-year-old mare Quarter Horse. These five found immediate safety at DEFHR—thanks to supporters like YOU who make our all-breed mission possible.
For over 35 years, DEFHR has supported animal welfare agencies across the country. Most agencies lack the transportation, space, veterinary care, or trained staff to care for equines in neglect cases. That’s where DEFHR steps in, providing not only sanctuary but also legal case support, expert testimony, and documentation that strengthens neglect charges ensuring justice for the animals and improving equine welfare laws.
This is the impact YOUR support makes. YOUR gift of $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or ANY amount DOES make a difference!
Why Breed Matters in Rescue
Rescuing equines is only the beginning. Each animal at DEFHR receives a customized rehabilitation plan tailored to their breed, age, and condition. Thoroughbreds, with their fast metabolisms, need careful management to prevent
rapid decline, while ponies and donkeys designed to survive on less often arrive overweight and need to be uniquely managed to avoid health issues.
Our experienced staff and veterinary partners ensure that each equine gets exactly what they need to recover and thrive. And when they’re ready for a second chance? That’s when the magic happens. Because we are an all-breed rescue, adopters come to DEFHR looking for everything from companion donkeys to athletic Thoroughbreds. Some arrive with a specific equine in mind, while others discover an unexpected connection. Our trainers excel at matchmaking, ensuring the perfect fit for both equine and adopter. With an average of over 50 placements each year, variety isn’t just a perk it’s what makes our adoption program so successful, creating more lasting and rewarding partnerships.
Regardless, every equine has the chance to find a home where they are safe, valued, and loved. YOU make these miracles possible. YOUR donation of $100, $250, $500, $1,000 or ANY amount ensures the next equine in need gets the 2nd chance they deserve!
The Power of an All
When equines arrive at DEFHR needing healing and hope, they become our responsibility our teachers. Volunteers working side students and scouts discover that, just like people, equines are individuals. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of equine welfare and often become advocates in their own communities.
While DEFHR does occasionally handle single breed large Polish Arabians in 2010, our work more often involves multiple smaller multi
year. Each case brings a variety of equines with different needs, resulting in an incredibly diverse population at the farm. As an all breed rescue, we ensure that each equine, regardless of breed or background, has a place to heal and a chance at a brighter future.
Neglect is not breed here for all kinds of equines, and with your support, we can continue to provide this critical service to every animal that walks through our gates.
continue this life large or small
Because at DEFHR, rescue isn And thanks to YOU, we can do it for them all.
For ALL the horses
Erin Clemm Ochoa Chief Executive Officer
Phone: 301
P.S.: Donkeys are known for forming strong, lasting bonds, and our Little Lou has found his bestie in Corn Chip, a singleton arrival who seemed lonely and withdrawn at first. Since pairing up, Corn Chip has perked up, gaining confidence and showing us his true personality. Watching their friendship blossom has been heartwarming, and we hope they
