Lives Changed,
Stories Shared
Every horse has a story—and so does every person who chooses to help them. From rescued horses who’ve found healing and new purpose, to horse owners who received support in times of crisis, these stories reflect the heart of our mission. We’re honored to share these powerful moments of hope, resilience, and transformation made possible through compassion and community.
B.J., Madison County, VA
“ I have 2 special needs horses and am on disability income. I do without on my very limited income to do this and that is fine with me as they are priceless and will always come first. Thank you for your help!”
P.M., Albemarle County, VA
“…I found myself in need of help. I reached out to a long time friend, an animal advocate and a warrior. On my behalf she reached out to her animal community (online). It was from this post someone mentioned Dominion Equine Welfare. Not only is Dominion helping, but they set up a pick up for me and scheduled 2 more deliveries. I picked up that feed order - my order was written up and ready to go. NO questions, no explanations needed. I am so grateful, so glad I set my pride aside. And there is no better feeling in this world than having full feed bins. I can't even begin to express my appreciation.”
H.S, Prince William County, VA
“…thank you so much for helping us through a difficult time this year. The feed and hay allowed us to relax a little, regroup and get our feet on the ground.”
SUCCESS STORIES
"The Great Bale Out"
In 2017, Dominion Equine Welfare was contacted by a friend and volunteer regarding a horse rescue in St. Croix, U.S.V.I. that was about to take a direct hit from Hurricane Maria just weeks after Hurricane Irma caused significant damage. They were hoping for the best but preparing for the worst.
As the storm was making landfall, it was obvious it was going to be significant. Once the storm passed, the destruction left behind was unimaginable. Even the government’s emergency supply shelter - and the supplies within - were destroyed in the hurricane.
We got to work right away. Many entities on the mainland came together to include Dominion Equine Welfare, government officials, private sector logistics coordinators, feed and supply resources, and others. We worked hard to secure donations, others worked connections to identify transport and overcome other logistical challenges. As you can imagine, ports in the islands were damaged and the shipment coming from the mainland had to travel by ship.
We reached out to our friends at Purina and they immediately offered 5 tons of feed which we gratefully accepted. Other supplies, such as hay, feed for animals other than horses, medical supplies and other needed supplies were coordinated and collected at a location near the port. Communications were down in the disaster zone, but this team of people were hard at work coordinating packaging the feed onto pallets, delivery to port and funding shipping costs.
It took a little longer than desired, but the feed reached its destination with Cruzan Cowgirls Horse Rescue. The feed kept their 30 rescue horses fed for weeks and allowed Cruzan to support desperate horse owners in the disaster zone by sharing feed and supplies with them.
This incredible effort would not have been possible without the collaboration and tireless efforts of dozens of individuals, private and government entities, corporations and organizations, helping “The Great Bale Out” successfully provide much needed support for horses.
Cruzan Cowgirls Horse Rescue
From post-hurricane recovery to feed deliveries, our friends in St. Croix, U.S.V.I. continue their incredible work with strength and heart.
From Grief to Gratitude:
Welcoming Tally Home
Last December after losing my elderly quarter horse, Crawdad, I knew I wanted another rescue as a companion for my mule, Judy. I reached out to Equine Welfare Society to see if they had any horses that would be suitable. They sent me information on a horse named Tally, who had come into their facility for training from Dominion Equine Welfare. Tally sounded almost too good to be true, but after meeting her I knew she’d be a great fit for our family. Equine Welfare Society connected me with Dominion Equine Welfare and they were a pleasure to deal with. I really appreciated that they wanted Tally to go to a great home, I could tell that they have the best interest of the horses in mind when vetting applicants. Tally and Judy became fast friends and while she enjoys being groomed and loved on - her favorite thing is treats! Thank you, Dominion Equine Welfare for giving me the opportunity to love and care for Tally!
