Welcome, spring!
(Goodbye, mud.)
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This past winter presented many challenges for our herd. Our dedicated staff and volunteers were busy caring for horses that required urgent attention to survive and recuperate. The wet and windy weather had compounded our challenges, as we worked tirelessly to keep these horses dry and warm, which was crucial for their recovery. Additionally, managing the expense of providing soft, cushy footing for horses battling laminitis added to our financial strain.
Each day, our team was fully occupied with feeding, grooming, and administering medical treatments to ensure these horses had the best chance at recovery. Despite the adversity, we remained committed to the well-being of every horse under our care. Your support and understanding during that demanding period were greatly appreciated as we strove to provide the specialized care these horses urgently needed. Together, we made a meaningful difference in their lives.
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Isabella's Journey to Health | |
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This season brings new challenges and opportunities for healing and growth for our horses at Sunrise Horse Rescue. Your ongoing support is crucial, enabling us to provide critical care and hope to horses like Isabella.
Isabella, seven years old, battled severe laminitis after being overfed with rich grass and sugary grains. Equine laminitis is a painful hoof condition caused by inflammation of the laminae, often linked to diet. Despite her young age, this condition threatened her life. Another rescue assisted Isabella's owner in obtaining veterinary care, yet she continued struggling with this severe condition, requiring urgent intervention. Sunrise was happy to step in and provide Isabella with the quality of care she needed to get her painful condition under control. We are so thankful to our team of veterinarians, farrier, and all who helped care for Isabella.
Despite her challenges, Isabella shows remarkable resilience and curiosity, forming strong bonds within our herd. We remain optimistic about her healing and potential progression towards becoming a riding horse.
Your continuous support empowers us to transform stories like Isabella's into tales of resilience. Together, let's rekindle the spring in our steps and offer hope to these remarkable creatures.
We kindly ask for your assistance in covering her medical expenses.
Thank you for being an indispensable part of our mission. Your commitment truly makes a difference.
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Click HERE to Donate to Isabella's Care
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Save the Date: Exciting Events Ahead! | |
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Volunteer Appreciation
- Sunday, June 9
- 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm
- 1400 Tubbs Ln. Calistoga, CA
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Food provided by Mi Cocina Taco Truck
Volunteers, we want to celebrate you! Mark your calendars to join us for the opportunity to connect, share stories, and celebrate the impact we've made together.
Details to follow.
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Harvest of Hope
- Saturday, September 14
- 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
- Blossom Creek Farm, Calistoga, CA
We are so excited to be returning to the picturesque Blossom Creek Farm for an all-new daytime event! As September paints the valley with its vibrant hues, we're launching a midday celebration that promises to complement your busy schedule amidst the flurry of evening harvest parties. Mark your calendars to join us at this annual event to benefit Sunrise Horse Rescue!
Check our website for updates.
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Ways to Gift Back!
treat yourself while also supporting our herd
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Score Sports Memorabilia
Joe Cool Collectibles
Elevate your sports collection with a Joe Montana signed helmet and jersey while supporting horse rescue efforts! Montana, known as "Joe Cool," is a Hall of Fame quarterback renowned for leading the 49ers to four Super Bowl victories. His precise passing revolutionized football. By purchasing these collectibles, you contribute directly to Sunrise Horse Rescue, aiding in critical care for horses in need. Own a piece of NFL history and make a positive impact on animal welfare. Join the winning team in supporting a noble cause—helping horses while celebrating the legendary career of Joe Montana!
This set is being offered for $1,500.00.
Click HERE to Purchase
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Hawaii is for Horse Lovers
seven nights for up to six guests
Unwind on Hawaii's renowned beaches at your choice of the following luxury condo resorts:
- Kona Islander (Big Island)
- The Twin Fin or Pearl Hotel Waikiki (Oahu)
- Pacific Fantasy or Pono Kai Resorts (Kauai)
Delight in whale watching, top-notch dining, shopping, and endless relaxation! Explore paradise your way.
This experience is being offered for $3,000.00.
Click HERE to Purchase
Proceeds from this trip support Sunrise Horse Rescue, aiding in the care and rehabilitation of horses in need.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: This is for a two-bedroom or studio property. Upgrades are available at nominal costs, when applicable. Airfare and transportation are not included. Book 90 days in advance. Must travel by February 28, 2025.
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Denise at a Draft Horse Classic event | |
Volunteer Spotlight:
Denise Koons
How long have you been volunteering at SHR?
I started volunteering and learning horsemanship in June of 2018. I had just moved to Calistoga a few months earlier and I was so excited to learn about the Rescue.
Which horse inspires you the most and why?
I feel much love for all the Sunrise horses and for those that have passed. Since I started caring for the herd, I have been building a friendship and bond with CeeBud. He reminds me of one of the rascal students I’ve had that you can’t help but love. He’s a big lovable rascal
What do you do for fun (besides volunteer at SHR:)?
Besides enjoying my time with the herd, I like to kayak, hike, travel and spend time with friends.
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New Addition to Our Team:
Vanessa Renée, Director of Development
Vanessa's passion for horses began during her childhood in Napa Valley, visiting a neighbor's property to watch them graze and play. After completing her education in San Diego and working as a Corporate Event Planner, she returned to Napa in 2014, joining the wine industry with her husband. Vanessa's logistical skills helped her transition to a winery cellar hand in New Zealand, Australia, and Calistoga. In 2018, she merged her wine and event management careers at Sonoma County Vintners. Rediscovering her love for horses through other wine industry equestrians, Vanessa embarked on riding lessons where she met and fell in love with her first horse, Onyx. After Onyx's retirement due to a neurological condition, Vanessa began researching equine welfare. Motivated by Onyx's memory, she joined Sunrise Horse Rescue as Director of Development in March 2024. Vanessa now lives in Calistoga, where she enjoys gardening, reading, camping with her husband and rescue coonhound, and riding her new horse, Harry.
Vanessa can be reached at vanessa@sunrisehorserescue.org
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It's hard to lose a friend.
And Shaq was the best of friends to all who came his way at Sunrise, and to the kids and seniors in our programs. An unusually calm horse who was obviously suited to his former work as a drill team horse as well as working with people, Shaq had been left homeless after the Valley Fire in Lake County before finding his way to the Sunrise sanctuary.
Shaq developed a severe colic suddenly Saturday morning, and despite immediate and intense care was unable to recover.
Linda, a Sunrise Volunteer, said it all: "He was a really gentle sweetheart and was THE horse who opened my heart to true connections with our horses at Sunrise Horse Rescue. Thank you, Shaq, for all you have given me."
Thank you, Shaq.
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