Days End Farm Horse Rescue

Rescue and rehabilitation - in collaboration with local animal control and humane agencies, Days End Farm Horse Rescue (defhr) provides critical Rescue, rehabilitation and husbandry services for horses suffering from abuse and neglect. Our comprehensive care programs include rehabilitation, training, adoption services, he defhr guardian/ off-site sanctuary program, and the equidopt/ on-site foster program all designed to prepare for and secure safe, loving, and long-term homes for rehabilitated horses post legal proceedings. Each year, we shelter an average of 125-150 horses and serve as the primary impounding facility for law enforcement's living evidence in cruelty cases, offering crucial forensic documentation, expert testimony, and hands-on cruelty investigation training for animal control officers and humane societies. As the only facility in the mid-atlantic region providing this level of equine care and expertise, we offer our services at no cost to the agencies that depend on us. This not only ensures the highest standard of care but also helps safeguard the limited budgets of law enforcement agencies, allowing them to focus their resources on investigation and enforcement efforts. Our work is made possible by the generosity of foundations and donors, as well as the dedicated efforts of our volunteers. Additionally, defhr offers disaster response and large animal emergency Rescue services, playing a vital role in safeguarding equines during natural disasters and emergency situations.

Outreach programs - defhr's outreach programs are dedicated to raising awareness about the abuse and neglect of horses while promoting responsible equine care. These programs include setting up informational booths at fairs and expos, publishing a monthly volunteer newsletter, posting across our various social media channels and offering consultations for individuals looking to start Horse rescues or seeking guidance to improve existing Rescue operations. Defhr also participates actively in the Maryland Horse council, holds a board position on the Maryland Horse industry board representing humane societies, and is a member of the advisory board for the homes for horses coalition. Additionally, we are accredited by the global federation of animal sanctuaries, the thoroughbred aftercare alliance, and the equus foundation. Our commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility has earned us the highest seals of excellence from guidestar, charity navigator, and the better business bureau. Through our owner2owner (o2o) program, a public safety net, we assist private Horse owners who can no longer provide for their horses. This program facilitates the transition of horses to new owners or offers humane euthanasia support, preventing these animals from burdening Rescue facilities or suffering further neglect.our robust volunteer program invites individuals to actively participate in the rehabilitation journey, offering training in Horse care, stable management, and the rehabilitation of abused and neglected equines. We welcome volunteers as young as five, fostering compassion and leadership skills in both adults and young people.

Humane education programs - defhr's national equine welfare center provides humane education programs promoting the proper care, treatment, and training of horses, fostering a culture of compassion and responsible equine ownership. Our diverse educational offerings include the highly-regarded and competitive internship and youth programs, which provide hands-on learning experiences in equine care and rehabilitation. In addition to these flagship programs, defhr conducts on-site and off-site seminars for law enforcers, animal welfare professionals and enthusiasts, engaging youth groups, schools, and community organizations. Educational tours and interactive workshops are designed to inspire and educate participants of all ages, encouraging a lifelong commitment to animal welfare. Defhr is unique in that our national equine welfare center is open daily to receive visitors for tours and educational opportunities.