After 20 Years of Rescuing Horses, Haven Forced To Leave Property Searches for New Home
There are far too many abandoned or abused animals in need of good and loving homes. Dogs and cats are always up for adoption, shelters searching for the perfect family for a number of furry friends.
But dogs and cats aren’t the only ones in need of care. While horses are large and require a lot more work, the reward that’s reaped from a relationship with a horse is equally as grand.
Horse Haven of Tennessee has been taking in neglected and abused horses since 1999. “Since then, more than 1,000 horses have been cared for by the only nonprofit equine rescue serving the entire state of Tennessee,” the Horse Haven of Tennessee website reads.
For the past nine years, Horse Haven has resided in Knoxville. Thanks to land owner Sarah Kibble, the Haven has thrived and had the opportunity to rescue a great number of horses.
Unfortunately, Kibble has been forced to make the difficult decision not to renew Horse Haven’s lease in 2019.
Kibble’s horse, April, has an immune disease called Cushing’s syndrome. Because of this, it isn’t safe for April to live alongside other horses.
“At this point we need the land back to [ourselves] so I don’t have to worry about her being exposed to something that could make her seriously ill or possibly die,” Kibble told WATE 6.
But the sudden move isn’t getting Horse Haven Director of Development Bethany Schwarz down. Instead, Schwarz is approaching the move with a positive attitude and a grateful heart.
“We’re really excited for what the future could look like in another place owned by someone as generous as Sarah has been,” Schwarz shared with WATE 6.
The August 2018 newsletter for Horse Haven asked its subscribers for monthly donations to assist the equine welfare organization in its efforts to find a new home.
“Moving is expensive… we are going to do it with 30+ horses, equipment, fencing and even buildings!” the newsletter explained. “We need financial support more than ever.”
The Haven will be required to relocate no later than Dec. 31, 2018. While that doesn’t give much time for relocation, Schwarz remains hopeful.
“We’re just truly excited to see what this community can do to rally around rescuing horses,” she told WVLT 8.
The organization continues to depend on support from its generous volunteers. “I knew this place had my heart and soul and I absolutely love seeing the progression of each horse that comes through,” seven-year volunteer Ashely Ford shared with WVLT 8.
For anyone interested in helping fund Horse Haven of Tennessee’s move, a monthly gift can be set up through the donation page on the organization’s website.
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