Life Horse Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located at Breezy Hill Stables in Thurmont, Md. It provides services to all horse breeds, including sanctuary, rehabilitation, and retraining for adoption.
Horses come to Life Horse from area racetracks, auctions, owner surrenders, and undesirable situations. Currently, Life Horse has two dozen Thoroughbreds. Of those, 12 are sanctuary residents.
New arrivals are assessed by a veterinarian, farrier, and dentist. The horse’s training level is evaluated by a trainer to ensure the horse has the best chance to find a suitable lifelong partner. The horses are always welcome back for any reason if necessary.
Life Horse welcomes volunteers to visit and pamper our residents. Its oldest sanctuary resident is Happy Tuesday, 33. He made it known that he was very attached to another elderly Thoroughbred, also from a unsatisfactory situation. He and his 25-year-old friend Steel Bulle have found sanctuary together. Rarely do we see one without the other close by. Sanctuary horses are eligible for monthly sponsorships to help cover the cost of their care.
An open house is held annually where visitors are welcome to meet and greet the horses. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about responsible horse care and ownership. Horses available for adoption are used to show their versatility to anyone considering this option.
For those uncertain or unfamiliar with horse ownership, Life Horse offers an on-site leasing program. This program allows a potential adopter the chance to get to know the horse and determine if adoption is something they want to pursue.
Life Horse president and farm owner Joe Topper has seen an increased need for safe longterm aftercare.
“Being a Thoroughbred owner myself, I just want to do my part to see that these horses are cared for after life on the track,” said Topper, who helps oversee the daily operation of the farm. “Being located where we are with several tracks within about an hour’s drive, we feel like we’re in a good location to help out.”
