The Equestrian community revolves around the remarkable partnership between humans and horses. It’s a world where individuals and horses unite in a distinctive harmony. Be it the exhilaration of horseback riding, the perfection in equestrian sports, or the compassionate care bestowed upon these animals. This partnership transcends spoken language and finds expression in the unspoken bonds of trust, respect, and cooperation. But now, it’s high time we recognize the critical juncture at which the equestrian world finds itself.

Good Shepherd Healing Ministries Horse Rescue, located in Apache Junction, is in dire need of community support as it grapples with a multitude of challenges. This compassionate horse rescue organization has taken on the admirable task of rescuing and rehabilitating over 50 neglected, abandoned, and abused horses. However, it has reached a point where the sheer number of rescued equines has overwhelmed its capacity. It now faces several citations, threatening its mission to provide a safe haven for these animals.

The rescue’s journey and challenges

Upon the passing of the previous owner, Cindy Campton assumed the leadership of the rescue. Although she had been an active board member and volunteer for three years, she had not anticipated becoming the trustee. The rescue has experienced numerous difficulties over the years and Campton is determined to transform the property into an educational center for the betterment of these horses.

This transition came about around five weeks ago, and with it came a wave of citations, and a grim reminder of the challenges they must confront. The previous owner had amassed 60 horses on a mere 2 1/2 acres, resulting in numerous code violations that now need to be addressed urgently.

The path to transformation and equestrian community involvement

To ensure compliance with regulations, the rescue faces the daunting task of clearing trailers, dismantling makeshift panels, and removing years of accumulated manure, which requires extensive excavation. As Campton explains, “The ground all has to be dug up, probably 2 to 3 feet maybe, to get the manure out of here.”

Before these vital structural changes can begin, approximately two dozen riding and companion horses, most of them in their upper teens or early twenties, must find new loving homes. The financial burden has been substantial, with over $13,000 spent on veterinary care in just five weeks, addressing various health issues, including infected teeth and feet, and, tragically, the need to euthanize some horses.

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Despite these financial challenges and citations, Campton’s vision is clear: she aspires to create a space that the community can take pride in, fostering a deeper understanding of horses and their relationships with humans. The goal is ambitious but necessary to revamp the property by January and to achieve this, they are actively collaborating with city, county, and state authorities. The community can contribute by volunteering, adopting a horse, or sponsoring one of these deserving animals.

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