Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland

Hooves and Paws stepped up and helped us rescue our neighbor’s horse who had been left on the property unattended while the owner fell into doing drugs. It was the greatest day when that beautiful horse was pulled out of there and taken away to once again live and thrive. Bill and Genea are amazing people. We have been to the rescue 3-4 times, we saw how hard these two people, these 2 angels with a horse trailer, work, day and night to save animals that cannot help themselves. They not only work the rescue, but they also work full time jobs. Genea has us told how they have been threatened with bodily harm while doing rescues, yet these 2 amazing, wonderful people persevere because they cannot turn blind eyes to innocent animals that need help. How many of us would do that? Yes... this couple will and does, and has been doing so for years now. I cannot think of any non profit, or any organization for that matter, that I believe deserves help. Please read into Bill and Genea Stoops, and their Hooves and Paws organization, see the amazing work they do, and the lives they have committed to. They really are something. Thank you for listening/reading.

Sharing my experience. I thought would adopt to give a horse a much needed home. I was good with a horse only being green broke because I had worked with green broke horses in the past. I contacted the rescue & told them what I was looking for. I was contacted back saying that they had a horse that would fit. He was born at the rescue & was 5yrs. I made an appointment because you cannot just show up at the rescue & the rescue wanted to make sure the trainer was there. When my daughter & I arrived we where given a tour while the trainer caught the horse, saddled & warmed the horse up. (Should have been a sign right there). I asked if I could ride him & they agreed. Only got to ride in a round pen & the horse tripped a couple of times while I was riding. I asked things like does he load (on website he does), how is he with vehicles, etc. & was told everything was good. The horse seemed very dosial & corapative. I agreed to adopt at a fee of $400. The agreement stated if I ever could not take care of the horse I would give him back. I was fine with the agreement because I thought the rescue would want to make sure the horse was the right fit. Delivery day came...the rescue arrived they insisted that they needed to unload the horse into the pasture & not in front of the barn (Should have been a sign right there). Anyway they backed up to the gate and unloaded him (he was unloaded by the rescue and trainer). Later after the rescue left I went & caught the horse. He sometimes would mule stand while I was trying to lead until he spotted my daughter's mare that looked like his mother (he had been pasture with his mother & she was still at the rescue). After he spotted my daughter's horse he was willing to lead. I lead him over to tie him up so I could adjust the saddle to him while my daughter stood there with her mare. Everything was going okay until my daughter decided to ride away. The horse just about trampled me because my daughter left. I had to get my daughter back over by him so he was calm enough to work with. I put him in the round pen & worked with him (was hard because he did not respond to the noise to get him to going or the whip on his butt). After, I turned him back into the paster with my daughter's mare & it was like he was rounding the mare up as if he was a stallion. I thought he might be better after he spends some time with the mare so I waited until the next day. The next day my daughter went to get him and her mare out of the pasture. He about crushed my daughter & ran her over when she was leading him. I met her at the paster gate & took over following my daughter & the mare. I took him in the barn so I could put the saddle on him & then lug him before riding and he just about trampled me because he was not next to the mare. He was all over the place & was only focused on the mare. He was digging his front foot big & at the ground and almost got me a few times with his front foot. I was unable to get him brushed before working with him & was in fear for mine and my daughter saftey. The horse did not even notice we were there & only had eyes on the mare even when we would try to get his attention. I contacted the rescue to come get him. They showed up at 11:45pm at night (rude they could not wait until the next day) and could not get him to loaded. During the attempt to load he kicked off the barn gutter and the rescuers had to make a loading shoot out of fence panels. They gave up & came out the next day to load. I helped them the next day by using the mare & still it took 3 hours of using fence panels as a shoot and food to get him loaded. I am out the $400 & only had the horse 24 hours to realize someone is going to get hurt really bad by this horse & the rescue is making him out to be a sweet, gental horse, that loads lol. This is my experance & a lesson learned for me. Please make sure that even when you adopt you try out the horse as if it was already yours! Go catching the horse, saddle yourself to ride, ride it on the rode to see how it does & if they will not let you do that walk away!

Great rescue organization! I have seen something they have done for animals and it is awesome

They were immediately responsive and helpful when I needed assistance. Wonderful people!

They help me personally when my two dogs broke out of a friends fenced yard. They got the word out and through people sharing the dogs were located and returned to me the next day. I probably would have never found them without Hooves and Paws.

A huge THANK YOU.

When my dog Gwedoe was ready to pass over to rainbow bridge Genea called Dr. Pete to come assist and also drove 35 miles one way to be with me.

I have been following this group for a long time now,and I know lots of people who help\have helped out at hooves and paws. Amazing people,and they need all our support, to help them continue to help those in need... Who have no voice.

The service Hooves and Paws Rescue of the Heartland is not only desperately needed in our communities but the miracles they create every day provide life for animals with no voice of their own. The inspiration I receive from reading their stories brings me joy and hope for a better world in the future. This group of amazing people are the angels among us.

They are doing a great job rehabilitating and rehoming animals rescued from neglect cases or owner surrenders. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!

Hooves and Paws Rescue of the Heartland is one of the greatest rescues. They go above and beyond for the animals that don't have a voice of their own. They will help anyone that needs it.

Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland does consistent good and important work rescuing animals in need. They are a rescue that I respect and admire. Thank you, Cindy.

This organization got my attention and receives my support because of the continual sacrifices it makes, amount of animals it saves, variety of animals it helps and rehomes, and the genuine all around top notch care and environment their facility, volunteers and founders provide. They continuously educate people about proper care and the nurturing of animals and are vested in the lifelong care of their animals. They really dedicate their whole lives and all of their hearts into making a better world for the unfortunate and those that need their help....the innocent and often betrayed four legged angels.

The work they do is not only local but nation wide. Individuals and other non profits all rely on hooves and paws professional experience and network.

I have them on my feed, this i feel is a very good rescue people in my own home town have lost pets some i knew, some i didn,t but they were the first ones out there to help.have reunited pets and familys and the 1s no 1 will claim she works hard to get the right family,,,,

We called and emailed in response to a post on Facebook about a dog needing a home. The home visit went well and so we were shocked when we were denied the ability to foster and/or adopt this animal. We were denied because one of us belongs to an animal coalition and there is a conflict of interest between Hooves and Paws and another member of the coalition. We feel that this is very unfortunate as we are able and willing to provide a loving home for this animal. Yes we are very upset, but feel that this is factual and that it should be known.

This group reaches out to help so many animals in need. They will travel to pick up animals and will assist police by moving animals from bad conditions. The time, caring methods, finding foster homes and forever homes , and they do NOT kill animals. They are a safe Haven" FOR ANIMALS !

Genea took one look at a picture I posted of a bloodhound puppy in KY with a broken leg and she said right away she would take her. I kept in contact with Genea to follow Blossom's progress. She would send me pictures and updates. She knew that Blossom would be perfect for my family but I was dealing with my dogs arthritis and liver problems. No one else seemed to be the right fit for Blossom so she waited for me. Finally we were able to get her and now she is a cherished family member who is laying on our bed right now. If it had not been for Genea taking a chance on a little girl from KY she probably would have died. Genea & Bill help every animal they can. I don't know how they do it but I am sure glad they do.

Hooves and Paws Rescue of the Heartland is respected by volunteers, donors, law enforcement, and other rescue organizations. This rescue steps up in cases of all types, and they work TIRELESSLY to help where ever they are needed. I know all of my donations are used in the best way possible to help the animals! Genea and Billy and their volunteers are so loving and caring!

I offered help to foster a horse that had been a rescue/neglect case. This horse had her spine sticking up out of her back, hip bones exposed and had lice. She was in need of some TLC. Genea accepted our offer to foster her and had the mare brought to our house where we had the vet and ferrier waiting. The mare was treated and started on a meal plan that would help her slowly gain the right weight and muscle.
If NOT for Hooves and Paws - without Genea, this mare would not have been rescued, would not have made the recovery she has - the mare would have would have starved to death.

Due to the recent review made on 02/16/14 by a person who signed in as lovepaints regarding Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland I would like to respond as a Board Member. Due to the fact that we do work with Law Enforcement on animal abuse and neglect cases people who abuse and neglect their animals become very angry once their animals are removed and will discredit and blame those who did the removal. There was a recent removal of Horses that were not being cared for in the proper manner and Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland was asked to remove the Horses by Law Enforcement. This negative post showed up after this removal. This is not unusual for this to happen by those who feel they are not in the wrong and we understand this behavior. However, Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland removes abused & neglected animals on a regular basis and we expected it would just be a matter of time before something like this to surface. We welcome the person who wrote the negative post to contact our Attorney or Law Enforcement who ordered the removal if you they have any further issues to discuss.

This organization loves to smear and attack other rescue groups. I have never observed such vitriol and hatred as this woman spews. Her attacks on others far out weighs any good she does. It has been reported that she has facilitated in shipping horses to slaughter, advising people to starve horses so law enforcement can take them in a ownership dispute.

After going to visit Genea & Bill at Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland in Glenwood Iowa, meeting their animals in person and walking their facility I have to say "I was so impressed". They are honest & hard working people. Both work full time jobs as professionals outside the home and also run the only "No Kill" Rescue & Shelter in Mills County, Iowa for Horses, Donkeys, Mules, Dogs & Puppies. They are a top notch "No Kill" Rescue & Shelter" in every respect. Genea & Bill shared with me the story of each animal at their facility, how they arrived and how they are progressing. They also provide educational seminars regarding the proper care of animals in general. But they specialize in Horses, Donkeys, Mules, Dogs & Puppies. I seen many before and after photos of their rescued animals. Wow!!! They work with some of the highest neglect cases I have ever seen. And they never give up on an animal in need. I wrote them a much deserved donation check before leaving their facility and I urge everyone to follow their work and support them and their efforts. They are wonderful husband & wife team who truly care and help make a huge difference in the lives of so many animals in need.

Hooves and Paws Rescue of the Heartland is one of the BEST rescues! I have had the pleasure to see firsthand how they go above and beyond the definitions of a rescue. Genea and her husband, Billy works tirelessly and endlessly and devout their entire lives to saving many animals. The love for all animals is seen in how they take care of the animals that end up in their care or foster homes flourish and so many lives have been saved. I've seen the miracles this rescue has accomplished, when other people give up, they are right there to take them in. I nominate Hooves and Paws Rescue of the Heartland not only for these attributes, but also for the hard work, education and dedication they give to the community. I love this rescue!

Absolutely wonderful organization. I have adopted two pets from them, their support and advice is valuable. I still have both of my pets and adore them. When I was challenged with one, they offered excellent advice to get us through a rough situation. They work together to make sure animals in a bad situation are rescued and moved into a positive situation. Their work is of the utmost important and vital to the animals in Glenwood as well as to reaching beyond their local area.

I have watched these people do so much for saving animals and helping people be educated with the animals that they work with people..... always there to save help or transport great people

I first met Billy and Genea when we helped transport an older horse to them. Jessie's family was moving and they couldn't take him. Billy and Genea gave Jessie a loving home for several years until his passing. Billy and Genea were with Jessie when he passed. I knew the day when we arrived with Jessie that he was at a good place and loved the work they were doing. They are dedicated and tireless rescuers.

Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland is the best of the best!!! Billy and Genea go above and beyond to be sure that the ones that "Have No Voice of Their Own" are able to find a foster or furever home!!!!!!!!

I came to know about Hooves and Paws when a St.Bernard in my town was seen to be living in poor conditions. Genea came within 2 days and assessed the situation.She truly cares for all animals and wants to see them be happy and healthy. I admire the work Genea and her husband do and hope to work with them again.This rescue is wonderful and I hope they can continue their work for many many years.Pamela Mundinger

Hooves and Paws of the Heartland Rescue is a NO KILL shelter and rescue. I have had the opportunity to see what they do and how they operate. Genea and Bill put the animals first above all else. They are assesible to anyone and everyone by phone, email and etc to help and to answer all of your questions any time of the day or night. I know, because I have had to call them for help. I don't know of any other rescue that provides so many services as they do. Please go to their website and find out more.

All I can say is what a great organization. A couple years ago Hooves & Paws helped rescue a beautiful horse named Jake that was being abused by his owner. Jake has now been with us oh at least 4 years now. But if it wasn't for Hooves and Paws that horse would be dead I'm sure of it. They do wonderful work and it's run by a wonderful group of people who would do anything to save an animal. Thank you Hooves and Paws.

We had a neighbor who owned property near ours. This young owner fell into drugs and worse. He left his horse alone and to die in the field. My husband and I would sneak onto the property and take him hay and water hoping to sustain him until help would come; waiting for the local authorities to do something - but they never did. Even after several calls they never stepped foot on the property that we were aware of. Fearing this poor horse would die and there was nothing we could do was pure hell for us. This agony went on for 3 years. Finally my husband ran onto the name of Hooves & Paws and contacted them. They drove 80 miles to us and went to work doing what they do best, helping helpless, defenseless animals get free from pain and a hell that they most certainly do NOT deserve. Bill and Genea aren't just wonderful people, they're angels. I cannot say enough about them. If I had a million dollars to give it would be theirs so they could build their dream and continue doing what most of couldn't or wouldn't.

I think Hooves and Paws do an amazing job with their rescue animals. They have the heart and soul of a champion when it comes to rescuing animals. They have been threatened, vandalized and still they never stop help animals who have no voice of their own. I have worked with other rescues and none of them work harder than Genea and Billy do. They are fantastic!!! The proof is in the results of their happy and healthy animals that came to them in such poor shape, its just insane. Take a look at Zeus, he couldn't walk do to the abuse but now, he can. The best of the best!!!

We received a call about a dog needing rescue. Hooves & Paws made the referral to us with all the needed information. We were happy to try to help as we know Hooves & Paws saves all types of animals. They care for the animals as if they are family!

Genea not only helps dogs and cats but the hooved abused and homeless population as well. She does a fantastic job. Not too many places can handle all these animals.. Great job Hooves and Paws..

Bill and Genea are the best at what they do. They are both very committed to caring for the animals that they have rescued, and they also care about the volunteers they work with. They both work hard to keep the animals safe and well nourished. I have enjoyed working with both of them, and I wish I was closer so I could help them out more!

Billie and Genea are two of the kindest, most caring animal lovers that I know. They work hard to be sure the animals are, clean fed and well cared for every day. They will go rescue, day or night rain or shine. They don't just rehome, they rehabilitate!

Someone approached my husband at work because they knew we had an acreage with horses and there were 120 mustangs that were in peril, and a rescue in Iowa was offering to wave adoption fees to anyone who could take one. Oh, and could you help with the rescue? I was intrigued, so I called Genea Stoops at Hooves and Paws. My life has never been the same. A friend and I went to the farm where the horses were neglected. I cried when I got out of the truck. Horses were everywhere, all different ages, all the mares w/foal, the stallions running in several herds, not separated from mares. Young fillies and stud colts were running around, some injured, all starving, with bloated little tummies and hips protruding. There was no water in sight, except a frozen creekbed, and there was a fresh round bale out that we were told was put out there because they(the hoarders) knew we were coming. We used human fences with all the volunteers there that day, to round up horses into a huge round pen. We loaded 15 that day, all wild eyed w/ fear(30 + were resued in allMany mares who have now had their foals! ). The young black stud colt that I brought home, would be one of the neatest experiences that I have ever lived, and am still living. Separated from the other horses for 3 weeks, my husband and I watched lice fall off him by the thousands when treated, and cleaned up piles full of worms and bot larvae, resulting from the wormings. He would now get to keep his groceries! It didn't take long for him to trust us, but there were a few close calls with some very quick back hooves, and I did get bitten in the face for getting to close! (My fault... he had never had human touch and I was trying to kiss his nose! ) Today, he is being trained by me and a trainer I hired to teach both of us! He is two, and a far cry from the scared baby that was carried on the trailer two years ago on St. Patricks Day... Oh. His name is Dublin. Since then, I keep in close contact with Hooves and Paws, helping both monetarily and time-wise when I can. The things that Genea and Bill at Hooves and Paws do to stand up for animals that have no voice of their own is truly tireless, heartwarming, and amazing. "Like" their Facebook page to keep abreast of the work they do! The rescues, the new donkey refuge, the communication of foster animals available and followup that they do is nothing short of amazing. Genea and Bill are truly animal Samaritans and have my utmost respect!

I think what Genea and Billy do and how they give to all the animals without a voice is wonderful ! I got to meet them a year ago and have to say they have a Heart of Gold . They have helped so many animals . I got to meet some of their rescued babies . Genea was very kind to take time out of her day to walk me around and explain their rescue to me. They are called upon by many and if they are full they always make sure to somehow find a way to still help those without a voice of their own.

My children and I have been out to Hooves and Paws to see animals in the process of healing. It is an amazing thing to witness. It has been a while since we have been out but I read stories all the time of their miracles with animals. God bless Hooves and Paws for the selfless acts of kindness that they do everyday!

Hooves and Paws owners Billy and Genea love and care for each and everyone of their rescue animals as if they were their own children. They are the most caring people you would ever meet and they go above and beyond for any animal in need, they rely totally on donations and put almost everything that they earn at their personnel jobs into the rescue. Love these folks and the job they are doing.

Hooves and Paws of the Heartland is one of the most hardest working, united and and helpful rescue groups I have been involved with.

I have been a Board Member for Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland since the day they opened their doors. They far exceed any and all expectations of Animal Rescues & Shelters.They are above all honest, kind, caring & giving. There are so many Horses, Donkeys, Mules, Dogs & Puppies that have come through the gates of Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland that have had no one to love them, no hope left and have given up on life. Bill & Genea Stoops take them through a process of healing both inside & out. This takes time, money and patience. They have transformed animals that others said could not be saved into amazing beautiful adoptable pets. Over 500 Horses, Donkey, Mules, Dogs & Puppies have had their lives saved that may otherwise have been lost without Hooves & Paws Rescue of the Heartland. They are truly a "Place To Heal" and save those with "No Voice of Their Own".

One of the most amazing rescues there is. They put the love of the animals first in their lives. They help so many animals and educate many people. They are truly a voice for those who do not have one of their own.

I am an adoptor!!! I am a volunteer!!! I am a donor!!! And Hooves and Paws Rescue of the Heartland is truly an advocate for all horses, donkeys, mules, dogs and puppies that have been starved neglected and/or abused. This is truly a place to heal and have a voice speak out for these animals. This is the second chance these animals get in life and Hooves and Paws make sure their adoptions are a perfect fit for the sake of all animals having a forever home.

They save neglected and unwanted animals of All kinds. My puppy was found in a dumpster,they gave her a place to heal until she was ready to be adopted. They try and save the ones that are beyond saving. They never give up on any of them. They fight for the one that have no voice, they are very deserving of this .

Local law enforcement calls upon Hooves and Paws of the Heartland to assist in solving animal abuse cases involving horses, mules and donkeys. The group provides rescue, transport, housing, food, vet care and foster care for the animals they serve. Does not receive government funding; relies solely upon donations and volunteers.