Helping Equines Regain Dignity

Helping Equines Regain Dignity, often abbreviated as HERD, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit equine rescue organization. Situated in the foothills of North and South Carolina, HERD focuses on rescuing equines from dire conditions and preventing them from being sent to slaughter.

Mission and Activities

The organization's mission is to provide equines a second chance at life by rescuing them from adverse situations. Volunteers at HERD are involved in various activities such as:

• Rescuing equines from conditions that jeopardize their welfare.
• Vetting to ensure the health and well-being of the animals.
• Feeding and providing necessary care.
• Training to make them suitable for adoption.
• Facilitating adoption by finding loving new owners for the rescued animals.

Status and Recognition

HERD has achieved the GuideStar Gold Seal of Transparency, recognizing its commitment to transparency and accountability in non-profit management[2].

Challenges Addressed

The organization brings attention to critical issues in equine welfare, including the significant number of horses being slaughtered annually. Notably, around 150,000 U.S. horses are sent to slaughter in countries like Mexico, Japan, and Canada each year. Many of these horses are young, healthy animals purchased at auctions by kill buyers. HERD emphasizes the importance of avoiding auctions for horses and promotes awareness about horse slaughter through collaborations with organizations like the Animal Welfare Institute[1].

Donations

Donations to HERD are tax-deductible and crucial for funding the rescue and care of equines. Supporters can specify their donations for specific horses or contribute to the general fund for maintaining the adoption program[1].

[1] http://www.herdrescue.org [2] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/81-4317379 [3] http://www.herdrescue.org/events-1 [4] https://app.candid.org/profile/9585559 [5] https://www.gofundme.com/charity/helping-equines-regain-dignity