Much has been accomplished at SFSPCA since we published our last newsletter. But what it all really comes down to is saving horses' lives , like Sambuca pictured above. After a joint investigation in late May by ranch director Laurie Waggoner and Miami-Dade Agricultural Patrol, we seized the emaciated mare and two others suffering from cruelty and extreme neglect and brought them to the safety of our ranch, where they received life-saving care. Sambuca was suffering the worst, arriving in near-death condition and terrified of humans. By mid-August, the benefits of proper feed, shelter, veterinary and farrier care made her almost unrecognizable as her health blossomed and she began to trust again. Now, Sambuca is fully rehabilitated and read y for her forever home.

There are many more Sambucas at our ranch, and more in our future.

Toward our mission of Rescue, Rehabilitation, Adoption, Education and Advocacy, and for all the Sambucas, we are are proud to share the following news, achievements, and milestones: 
Horses Saved, Forever Homes Found
This year, SFSPCA rescued 66 horses in cases ranging from cruelty and neglect to abandonment . While a few "escape artists" were reunited with owners, the majority were added to our herd at SFSPCA to be rehabilitated and prepared for adoption. Finding forever homes for our rescues is always the ultimate reward, and we're happy to say we have successfully placed over 30 with qualified adopters this year. Finally, we are grateful to the Retirement Home for Horses at Mill Creek Farm and Windhorse Sanctuary  for giving a soft landing for life to 10 of our senior horses.
River Red, rescued 10/12/15, is still rehabilitating at the ranch.
Enchanting Tide & Her Private Life adopted 10/4/15. 
Hanna & Lady Snow at Retirement Home for Horses.

SFSPCA Accredited by TAA
After a detailed application process and rigorous site inspection, SFSPCA received accreditation from the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA). This is an extraordinary honor, achieved by only 56 aftercare organizations in the United States and Canada. 




Anonymous Donor Makes Wish for More Land Come True
With so many horses and only 6.9 acres, we've known for some time more land was needed to accommodate our rescues. Our wish came true in September when an a nonymous benefactor stepped forward to help us buy three additional acres next to our ranch. Expert work from real estate attorney Tom Eagan of Squire, Patton, Boggs, given pro bono, completed the deal, for which we are truly grateful. A capital campaign will be launched in 2016 for the development of this property. (Please contact  Kathleen Monahan  if you are interested in donating or raising funds for the campaign.) 

Cow Herd Given a Home, Room to Roam in Texas
We've also known that a better home was needed for our herd of eight cows. Through the efforts of Kathryn Amoroso, Julie Shelton and Karen Buckhalt, we sent  Big Bird, Murray, Star, Freckles, Panda, Jordan, Lucky and Corey to heaven on earth--also known as Rowdy Girl Sanctuary in  Angleton, Texas. Read the full story HERE.
Legal Task Force Joins the Fight
Legal Advocacy is a crucial part of the South Florida SPCA mission, so this year we formed a Legal Task Force to assist county and state attorneys with the prosecution of civil forfeiture and criminal horse cruelty cases for SFSPCA. Eight prominent attorneys have agreed to provide pro-bono legal services, and includes: Co-chair Alvin Davis, Squire Patton Boggs (pictured at left); Co-chair Joy Carr, Carr and Carr, P.A.; A.J. Barranco, A.J. Barranco & Associates, P.A.; Heather Gatley, Associate General Counsel, Global Labor & Employment, Ryder System, Inc.; Pedro Hernandez, Squire Patton Boggs; Rachel Hope Minetree, Conroy Simberg; Bonnie J. Riley, A.J. Barranco & Associates, P.A.   READ MORE...

Training Program Results in Record Adoptions
Critical to making our rescues adoptable is our training program. This year, we've added new professional horse trainers, and increased their hours which has resulted in a record number of adoptions. At just under 50 horses, the ranch is at its lowest number in years! Special thanks to Mario Arroyave and Gil Marquez for their skills and dedication.
New Membership Program!
October was Membership Month, during which we offered new levels and benefits that increased our member base. The new Family Membership was a big hit, while others opted for the limited opportunity to name a rescue at the Signature level. We'll introduce you to "Farley" and "Dali" soon!

To learn more and to become a Member, CLICK HERE.




We are delighted to announce our partnership with CSC, an organization that empowers non-profits to better serve their communities. Together, we are working on new marketing and PR initiatives that will help raise awareness of horse welfare issues, and enhance fundraising efforts.



Groups Welcomed at the Ranch for Unforgettable Experiences
One of the things we love most is welcoming groups to the ranch to meet our rescues and to share our mission. Education & Outreach Program Coordinator Susie Martell and volunteer helpers had a very busy year with visitors of all ages and experience. Some had never touched a horse in their lives, others had never given a treat to one. All, though, had their eyes opened to the realities of horse rescue, and learned so much about horse welfare and proper care. If you have a group interested in coming to SFSPCA for a day of learning and hands-on activities, please email Susie Martell.

Late this year we created the TLC Brigade, a partnership with the Best Buddies organization to provide its members with a safe opportunity to experience the rescue horses. We look forward to sharing more about this program soon!

Honey Shine member treating Bringcheckcharlie.
Johnson & Wales students with Topper, our ranch ambassador.
Members of FAU Equestrian gave our rescues love and ride time.
UPCOMING EVENTS
FEBRUARY 13, 2016
Volunteer Orientation & Horse 
Safety Class
Get involved! If you are a Member, you're eligible to become a Volunteer at the ranch. CLICK HERE to learn more and to register .

MARCH 5, 2016
South Florida SPCA's "A Day at the Races" at Gulfstream Park
Tickets, tables and sponsorships available now! Join us for an exciting afternoon of horse racing, lavish buffet luncheon and silent auction to benefit SFSPCA.  For details and to purchase, CLICK HERE.



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