Zeb's Wish Equine Sanctuary

Overview

Zeb's Wish Equine Sanctuary is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing and providing sanctuary for elder and special needs equines. The sanctuary also focuses on creating a healing space for humans and promoting ecological sustainability on its property.

Mission

The organization's mission is structured around three key areas:

• Equine Wellbeing: Zeb's Wish rescues, rehabilitates, re-homes, and provides sanctuary for abandoned, neglected, and special needs equines. Since its inception, the sanctuary has assisted in the rescue of over 200 equines and provided direct care for more than 80 equines in need. The sanctuary caters to equines with special needs, often those who cannot be adopted through traditional channels, ensuring they receive comprehensive care and live happy, healthy lives.
• Human Wellbeing: The sanctuary offers equine-assisted learning and coaching programs that connect humans with equines to foster healing and growth. These programs aim to shift the relationship between humans and equines from one of utility to one of mutual respect and companionship.
• Ecological Wellbeing: Zeb's Wish manages its property sustainably, focusing on stream and pasture health, and promoting environmental awareness through educational programs.

Programs and Activities

The sanctuary offers a variety of programs, including:

• Equine Assisted Learning: Sessions that use equines as co-facilitators for human growth and healing.
• School Field Trips and Service Learning Classes: Educational opportunities that combine learning with community service.
• Retreats: A serene environment for personal retreats and team-building exercises.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Regular opportunities for volunteers to engage with equines and support sanctuary activities.

Legacy and Impact

The sanctuary's inspiration dates back to the rescue of a blind and starving mule named Zebediah in 1998. Since then, Zeb's Wish has become a model for compassionate equine care and sustainable environmental practices, influencing not only the lives of the equines it serves but also the humans who interact with them. The sanctuary is recognized as a member of the Shelter Animal Reiki Association, highlighting its commitment to holistic care practices.

Operations and Funding

Zeb's Wish operates as a micro-sized organization with a significant reliance on donor support. The sanctuary's model of providing lifelong care for special needs equines means that it does not recoup expenses through adoption fees, making external funding crucial for its operations. Despite these challenges, the sanctuary continues to thrive, offering a unique space for healing, growth, and connection between humans and equines.