About the Rescue
The Hidden Pond Farm Equine Rescue is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by farm owner Phyllis Marie Elliott and longtime friend Susan Grocott Jones. For many years Hidden Pond Farm was a staple in the New England horse show community, training and attending breed shows up and down the coast. After several decades of training and showing, Phyllis found her attention shifting away from prize-winning show horses towards those much less fortunate. Several bouts of research about the horse slaughter industry later and she made the decision that her farm would no longer be a show barn, but rather a sanctuary for horses in need. In 2014 Phyllis and Sue launched the Rescue as a simple online fundraising page, raising money for their first rescue trip to a New England horse slaughter auction. This simple online fundraiser saw such immense success that the idea to form an official organization was born.
As a Rescue organization we follow a simple mission:
- RESCUE :: The first goal of of the Rescue is to attend kill auctions and save horses, ponies, minis, and mules from slaughter by doing one of two things: buying and bringing them home for rehabilitation or buying and humanely euthanizing those that are too injured or ill to survive. This last act may be difficult to understand but as an animal rescue we are dedicating to alleviating suffering which unfortunately may come in the form of preventing an animal from living out their remaining hours in fear and pain.
- REHAB :: Rescuing horses bound for slaughter is only the first step (not to mention the the least expensive!) Following each rescue we conduct an evaluation of who the horse is and what they will be best suited for in their new life. After identifying these qualities our focus turns to getting them healthy enough to lead that life. This lengthy process can include quarantine, farrier visits, vet visits, training, and lots of emotional TLC.
- REHOME :: After rehabilitation our mission shifts towards the most rewarding part of the job, finding each rescue a loving forever home with a well-matched partner.
- EDUCATE :: Last but certainly not least, as a rescue organization we aim to educate as many people as possible about the alternatives to horse slaughter. We understand that horse owners often end up in positions where owning a horse is no longer feasible for them. When confronted with this situation we want people to know that the quick and easy solution (auction and/or horse sale) is NOT the answer. Our Rescue, along with many others, is here to help. We are a resource, a network community, and - if all else fails - we will provide a new, temporary home and second chance for your horse. If you know of anyone who is considering sending their horse to an easy, cheap auction or horse sale please contact us immediately.
We cannot do this alone, and therefore it is the overarching goal of Hidden Pond Farm Equine Rescue to spread awareness. We do this with the help of our amazing donors and by networking with other animals rescue groups so that we might all work together for a common goal...to save these amazing animals that have carried us through history.
