In Mount Airy, Maryland, there's a special place that's home to some very special equines. Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue is a place that's dedicated to saving draft horses from slaughter and giving them a second chance at life. They work tirelessly to show these once unwanted horses that not all humans are bad, and gift them with a chance to shine.
Their motto is "Rescue, Rehab, Retrain and Rehome" and they've been doing exactly that for since 2005.
They offer all levels of care for these rescued horses. Many come from a life of neglect and/or abuse. But one thing is certain. Once they find their way to Gentle Giants Horse Rescue, they'll never suffer again.
The mission behind Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue, as told on their Facebook page:
All of our horses are rescued from auctions where we are their last chance before being sold to slaughter. Our horses are chosen for their temperament, soundness, and usability. Once safely home, all horses are quarantined for a minimum of 21 days, during which time they receive medical, farrier, and veterinary care. Once fully rehabilitated, we carefully evaluate every horse, including training for riding if required. All of our horses are thoroughly evaluated to aid in the best possible match for horse and rider. A successful partnership creates a bond of trust and friendship for both horse and rider, and it is our goal to find that match for every horse we save.
For this nonprofit organization, they've helped to make a real difference in the lives of horses being sold for slaughter. These draft horses are trainable, ready to work and they just want to find the people to give them the chance they deserve. Thankfully, once they land and Gentle Giants Draft Rescue, they have their opportunity to thrive.
Love draft horses? Check out our gallery full of draft horse images for you to ohh and ahh over here.
The rescue doesn't discriminate when accepting horses into their care, either. And they ensure that they find the perfect home for them once that day comes. For horses that have been properly rehabilitated, they go to caregivers who will use them as trail riding or schooling horses.
Want to learn more about Gentle Giants Draft Horse Rescue and the amazing work that they do for our equine friends in need? Visit their website here, and follow them on Facebook for the latest updates.
Horse Courses by Elaine Heney
- Listening to the Horse - The Documentary by Elaine Heney & Grey Pony Films
- Shoulder In & Out Training for better balance, bend & topline development with your horse
- Over 110+ Polework Exercises & Challenges to Download
- Dancing at Liberty & Creating Connection with Your Horse (11 lessons) - Grey Pony Films
Have you heard about Freedom Reigns Equine Sanctuary? One amazing woman in California has saved over 500 horses from slaughter, and her story will warm your heart.
Jodie Hillman
Your cover picture is my GGDHR rescue horse Amble! I have rescued two horses from this amazing rescue. GGDHR does amazing work loving and caring each horse. They also support their adopters - they've given me many a trailer ride for my boys. Amble is approximately 2300 lbs so it's hard for me to find a trailer that can fits comfortably.