Educating the public about the plight of equines through rescue and sanctuary
- Who We Are
What We Do
- How to Help
- Donate
In 2003 Redwings rescued Pearl who had been beaten with a 2×4
Redwings Horse Sanctuary began in May 1991 as a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization in Carmel, California, with a mission to end the abuse, neglect, and slaughter of horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, and burros through rescue and foster care. In its first year, Redwings rescued 15 equines from abusive or life-threatening situations. Redwings staff then rehabilitated the equines and matched them with carefully-screened adoptive homes.
Redwings also addressed educational, financial, and other factors behind equine neglect. The organization initiated several programs including an equine education program for new owners, and an equine medical assistance program for owners with low incomes.
A humane officer found Pokey starving over his dead mother’s body and brought him to Redwings
Although these efforts saved many equines, Redwings realized that placing some abused equines in adoptive homes was not a solution. A number of the rescued animals had experienced such serious physical and psychological damage that complete rehabilitation was not possible. In the fall of 1992, Redwings broadened its scope to include permanent shelter for those equines, ensuring them a secure and life-long home at the Sanctuary.
In 2000 Redwings moved to a 167-acre ranch in southern Monterey County, California. The entire Redwings family of 90 equines, three part-time and five full-time staff members completed the transition to the new Sanctuary in March 2002.
In addition, a ranch in Prunedale, California, has allowed us to keep a few of our horses on their property; volunteers take care of all of their needs.
Throughout its existence, Redwings has achieved a long list of significant accomplishments, including:
- Provided permanent sanctuary to hundreds of equines that had been in abusive and/or neglectful situations
- Placed more than 30 equines in secure, caring foster homes
- Provided equine education classes and seminars to hundreds of people from throughout northern California
- Established a mailing list of more than 10,000 supporters
- Provided volunteer education classes to instruct hundreds of volunteers on proper equine care while working with equines at the Sanctuary
- Provided financial and educational assistance to equine owners with low incomes through the Helping Hooves Program
Today, Redwings rescues several horses from abusive or neglectful situations every year, giving them a permanent home. These horses act as ambassadors, helping Redwings educate the public about the plight facing horses. When practical and needed, Redwings helps horse owners who have difficulty caring for their horses to keep them by giving them educational or restricted financial support. Redwings spreads the message to the public through booths at several events through the year, a bimonthly newsletter, and this Web site.
