PRESS RELEASE
The EQUUS Foundation and its EQUUStars were out in full force to help America’s horses with a week-long presence at this year’s American Gold Cup at Old Salem Farm in North Salem, NY from September 14-17th, 2017. The highlight was the Miniature Horse Meet and Greet and Adoption Event on Sunday, September 17.
EQUUS Foundation EQUUStars, Georgina Bloomberg, Jennifer Gates and Clementine Goutal, our newest EQUUStar, took time out of their competition schedules to passionately speak out for horses across the United States whose lives depend on new chapters and opportunities.
The American Gold Cup is the fourth EQUUS Foundation adoption event since May – following successful events at the Old Salem Farm Spring Horse Shows, the Fairfield County Hunt Club June Benefit Horse Show and the Hampton Classic Horse Show.
“Thousands of people have now been inspired and touched by the plight of horses in transition that depend on us to stay safe,” said Valerie Angeli, EQUUS Foundation VP Communications. “When we all work together for horses, anything is possible and there was certainly magic made at the Gold Cup!”
“I was so honored to work with the EQUUS Foundation at the American Gold Cup to get the word out on mini horse adoptions. Horses come in all shapes and sizes and none are immune to being at risk for slaughter”, said Jennifer Gates. “Although they are small, mini horses have big hearts.”
“As the proud caregiver to two minis, I know they have so much to teach us. They are healers and athletes and best of all they are loyal friends. I have seen the amazing joy therapy horses bring to the sick and the neglected and I am confident that the love they bring to someone in need will always be transformative.”
“Please join me in saving these wonderful horses and giving them a second chance in new forever homes.”
Miniature Horse Meet & Greet
The Miniature Horse Meet and Greet and Adoption Event featured the rescued minis of EQUUS Foundation Messenger charity, Artemis Farm Rescue, founded and run by equestrian, celebutante, actress and animal rights advocate, Cornelia Guest.
Six miniature horses, Othello, Jasmine, Poppy, Lucy, Princess and Dionysus, enchanted riders and spectators who were amazed to discover that even adorable pint-size horses are also at risk and need homes and a new purpose.
We are thrilled to report that Othello and Poppy were swooped up and adopted almost instantly at the event to be mascots at wonderful show barns, and several other minis sparked serious interest in future adoption.
All Week Long
Riders, spectators, horse people and horse lovers took part in #RideForHorses social media opportunities to raise visibility for the need to protect America’s at-risk horses and provide opportunities for horses to change peoples’ lives, especially for people with special needs.
EQUUS Foundation Messenger charities in the local area were also invited to showcase their wonderful work throughout the week and included Endeavor Therapeutic Riding, Rising Starr Horse Rescue and Artemis Farm Rescue. Charities receive the EQUUS Foundation Messenger designation for their commitment to public accountability and willingness to publish and share extensive data about their programs, horse care practices, and governance.
“These events give the equine community and the public the opportunity to meet at-risk horses face to face and to truly understand that most horses in need of homes are simply unlucky and have enormous potential to bring joy and inspiration to the right person,” said Valerie Angeli, EQUUS Foundation VP of Communications.
“They also allow the EQUUS Foundation to provide exposure for worthy equine organizations that depend on donations and volunteers to do their amazing work for horses. Many of the participating groups returned home with new resources to enhance their programs, in addition to placing horses in much needed homes.”
Special thanks to the American Gold Cup team and our EQUUStars for their support and generosity.
