I have been volunteering for Laughing Pony Rescue for nearly 12 years.
To say the horses, ponies, and donkeys are well cared for is an understatement. Each Laughing Pony receives individualized attention, food, supplements, and even chiropractic care. They get to romp and play with their carefully matched buddies every day. I thought I knew a lot about horses when I started, but nope! Celia has taught me an incredible amount about keeping horses healthy mentally and physically, how to ride safely, how to trailer a horse, and even how to train a horse. Celia is a powerhouse who dedicates every minute of her life to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-homing equines. (I don’t think she sleeps). And the success of this rescue would not be possible without the hard work of smart, dedicated and often hilarious volunteers, many of whom start with no horse experience but excel because they want to learn and help animals.
— Chris C.
I have been a donor and volunteer for close to 10 months. I was introduced to Laughing Pony Rescue after reading an article in my local paper. My heart was deeply touched reading about all of the animals that Celia has helped to save. My husband and I went to a Sunday afternoon program at Laughing Pony called Sound Healing and Mindfulness with Horses and immediately following I said,” I want to volunteer!". I knew I needed to help.
Being with the animals and learning from Celia and other volunteers has been amazing!! People have been patient and supportive. At the time I started volunteering, I knew very little about horses, donkeys, goats and roosters. It has been awe- inspiring to see the care and attention to detail that each animal gets. Every day I volunteer I learn something new or become more in tune with what I have been taught. It is extremely rewarding being part of a support team that assists Celia. We help her so that she can continue her endless work of saving more animals. I am grateful.
julie 8/18/2024
I've been a volunteer at Laughing Pony for 9 months and I can honestly say our community of captivating ranch residents, industrious volunteers and our astounding leader Celia, are the sole reason my physical and mental well-being have improved drastically. Its been such a privilege to care for, and get to know the distinctive personalities of our equines and farm animals. They always make me laugh and share a needed nuzzle that makes all the hardwork we put in at Laughing Pony worth it.
You won't find a rescue operation run more sacrificially, nor efficiently, for every dollar that comes in. Celia makes sure every penny goes to provide exceptional tender loving care to our ranch residents, as well as the hundreds of others she's saved for the last 30 years!
If you're looking to volunteer or donate to Laughing Pony, I guarantee your life will be richer for it!
Gallop to volunteer and donate to Laughing Pony Rescue!
I decided to swap my usual screen time for some green time and have volunteered at this horse rescue for the last 3 yrs.
Here's the lowdown:
- **Horses: These majestic creatures are like the living, breathing embodiment of "whoa, cool!" They're not just animals; they're therapists with hooves. Each one has a personality that could fill a novel.
- **Work: Expect to get your hands dirty. You'll be mucking out stables, which, let's be honest, isn't glamorous, but it's oddly satisfying. There's something therapeutic about shoveling manure. It's like you're literally cleaning up life's messes.
- **Learning: You'll learn more about horse care than you ever thought possible. From grooming to understanding their body language, it's like attending a masterclass in equine psychology.
If you're looking for an adventure that's more about the journey than the destination, this is it. Just remember, wear boots, bring sunscreen, and prepare to fall in love with horses.
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I’ve been volunteering at Laughing Pony for the last 5 months. It’s been a refreshing eye opener to be around such dedicated horse rescue people like Celia and her team. Celia readily shares her horse expertise making my volunteer experience very interesting. It’s clear Celia is thrifty with her money as it seems every dime goes to her horses and rescue operations. Laughing Pony Rescue is a solid organization to give both time and money to in order to save and rescue horses.
Having been both a volunteer and donor to Laughing Pony for over five years I can say with confidence that is is a wonderful and exceptional rescue organization. Our founder is creative and compassionate and always happy to share her extensive knowledge with us. This is an entirely volunteer operation and a special place. The ranch provides sanctuary for horses that are not adoptable and in additional places more than a hundred a year in forever homes.
I have been a volunteer at The Laughing Pony Rescue just under a year now. I started with duties like mucking and filling waters and now have the honor of grooming, cleaning hooves and applying medicines to many of the horses. It is truly an amazing place to volunteer and the people who put their time in here are all so wonderful to work with. I have gotten to know and love the 13 horses, 4 adorable donkeys, 3 frisky goats, and 3 roosters ( I had never held a rooster before coming here)
Celia works 24/7 to rescue these abused and neglected animals. I see the animals she has at LPR currently and how far they have come after their horrific situations. They are all so spoiled and Happy!!
If you are looking to volunteer or donate this is an amazing place and in great need of any help to care for all of these beautiful animals!
I've been volunteering at Laughing Pony for about a year and a half now. That makes me new. If you ever wanted to feel like you were actually making a difference, not just a gesture or busy work but knowing that your work changes the life of the animals and people you meet, this is the place to volunteer.
Celia takes in the horses that need the most care and attention, the ones with conditions that require vet care, the ones who were abused, neglected and thrown away, and gives them a loving home. The 13 horses, 4 donkeys, 3 goats and 3 roosters at LPR (at time of posting) are each unique, loved and cared for and wonderful in their own way.
I'll just tell you about Sunny. She's 40. No kidding, FORTY! And, like some old people, she can be cranky, for sure. Just the other day though, (it's August) she walked over to me and lifted her back leg. "Are you going to kick me?" I thought. But her ears were forward and she was so still.. So I ran my hand down her body and under her leg to find she'd gotten some dirt and sweat up under her groin... I bet it was super itchy and felt dreadful. She just stood there and let me gently get the bits off her tummy - I brought back a cool rag and wiped her off to make sure she was all clean and cool and comfortable. While I worked she actually nuzzled my leg (this is not usually a snuggly horse). Later in the day, when she was turned out for some frolic time she walked over and thanked me again. A gentle nuzzle, a lean. I already loved her but that trust to ask for help and that sweetness from her was all the thanks I ever needed for volunteering.
We work hard. We lift waters and wash hay and feed and muck and sweep and move horses and roosters, donkeys and goats. It's not air conditioned or fancy. But it is deeply rewarding.
So if you're looking for a place to volunteer where you will really move the needle, come join us! And if you can't spare the time right now, please donate. It's expensive taking care of all of these animals!
I have been following the work of this organization for over 10 years as a volunteer and donor. Consistency and dedication are the best two words that describe the organization’s untiring approach to caring for and saving equines and farm animals. The founder and volunteers need to be commended for their commitment to their mission.
One of the best nonprofits around. Money is spent on the animals, not on advertising etc. We run on a shoestring budget which means Celia eats a lot of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches while all the animals have the best care possible. Volunteers do just about all the jobs here, from mucking to feeding to social media and events. I know that my money is going to a fantastic place.
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I've been a donor and volunteer close to 10 years now. This place is fantastic. Despite their sad and traumatizing starts in life, all the rescue horses (and donkeys and goats) are loved and fat and sassy! (and I mean that in the best possible way!) Just about all money raised goes to the care of our horses, (I think we pay an accountant?) and to rescuing and caring for horses that have been either neglected or have been dumped at feed lots on their way (most likely) to the slaughter house. If you're thinking of donating to LPR, do it! And come volunteer with us while you're at it.
I’ve been volunteering for Laughing Pony Rescue for a year now and it’s been such a wonderful, educational and wholesome experience. The ranch, itself, is a sanctuary to 14 horses, 4 donkeys, 3 goats and 3 roosters, who under Celia’s leadership and with the support of volunteers, are given amazing and tailored care. LPR gives these animals the best loving home possible and offers educational and therapeutic programs to benefit the community as well. In addition, Celia works tirelessly to rescue and rehome as many vulnerable equines and farm animals as possible year-round. She makes sure they find their way safely to loving homes, where they get the care they need and deserve. Every dollar goes towards Laughing Pony’s rescue mission, so every donation is well-spent and goes directly to help the animals. It’s a worthwhile investment for your donation dollars and an unparalleled place to volunteer for animal lovers.
I am happy to support Laughing Pony Rescue. Their dedication to these rescued horses and animals is unwavering. The love and care given to the animals by the volunteers is so special. Please donate to help them continue their valuable work!
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Laughing Pony Rescue is doing so much good for the animals that they've rescued and for the community. They rehab and find loving forever homes for their rescues. They've developed an educational camp program to learn about the care and feeding of equines. It's a great learning experience for children.
Laughing Pony Rescue is truly a magical place, where the resident animals receive concierge-level customized and loving round-the-clock care. Most of the animals at LPR have been rescued from cruel and horrifying situations; Celia (the founder) and the dedicated volunteers carefully guide each of them toward their physical and emotional recovery. Celia tirelessly pours her heart and soul into each of these deserving and grateful animals, and when her facility is at capacity she doesn’t stop there. Every day she invests countless hours networking with others to locate and save more animals from desperately terrible situations all over the country. Her phone is constantly ringing with frantic pleas to save another animal in need. I honestly don’t know when she sleeps! I can’t think of another 501(c)3 that is more deserving of your support, and I'm honored to be among the volunteers who freely give their time and expertise to advance the LPR mission.
I have volunteered at the LPR for 2 years, and it is a great organization! Celia has helped so many horses and other animals in the local community and all around the U.S. Her passion and enthusiasm for rescuing animals in need is endless. LPR provides lots of resources and opportunities for the community and is vital for so many animals.
I have been volunteering at Celia's Laughing Pony rescue for about 3 months now. The 24/7 loving care and keeping these horses, donkeys, goats and chickens receive is beyond standard care! Each horse is met exactly where they are in their healing process and given the attention, nursing, exercise and nutrition needed for them specifically. Celia has a huge heart for these rescues and works tirelessly to tend to all their needs and rehab the trauma they have endured. I am happy to be a part of a team of loving volunteers and to do my small part to make these beautufl creatures lives better. A wonderful side benefit is the fulfillment the volunteers feel being with these amazing animals.
I started volunteering at Laughing Pony Rescue in the spring and it has become the highlight of my week. As an organization, it is run so beautifully with care for the horses, donkeys, goats (and wild bunnies) as its primary mission but also care of the people who volunteer there as a top priority. Many volunteers have been coming for 10+ years. The stories of what happened to the animals before they came to LPR will break your heart and the life they now have will heal it back up again. If you're looking for a place where your donations go directly to the care of the animals, where the people are truly kind, and where you can feel good about the difference you're making, donate to LPR.
Laughing Pony Rescue rescued me. I started volunteering at Laughing Pony (LPR) to give back but little did I know how much Laughing Pony would give to me. Whether it is caring for our equines to volunteering for the kids camps or Mindfulness and Meditation Programs we offer, every time I leave Laughing Pony my heart is that much fuller. From the incredible volunteers, to working side by side with our leader and horse whisper Celia, Laughing Pony is where I am filled with fulfillment and happiness. The care and dedication LPR provides to our equines is unparalleled, being a part of helping equines recover and come back to life after facing previous challenging circumstances is truly amazing. The work we do at LPR takes a village, from fundraising to rescue horses from the slaughter pipeline, to providing the care for our herd of rescue horses on site, none of this could be done with out the steadfast leadership of Celia and the tireless dedication of our amazing volunteers. LPR is a gift to our community!!! I've learned so, so, so much volunteering at LPR, both about equines and about myself, I am forever grateful for being a part of Laughing Pony Rescue.
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As I was healing from cancer I discovered Laughing Pony Rescue (LPR) and joined as a volunteer. Little did I know how the horses and LPR would help heal me. The level of care, attention, and love that is bestowed upon the rescue horses at the ranch and the countless hours dedicated to raising funds to save slaughter bound horses is awe inspiring. Celia, our fearless leader is the ultimate horse whisper, her depth of knowledge and care is mind blowing. Every volunteer gives their heart and soul to caring for our horses and donkey's and our never ending fundraising efforts. I love seeing groups come to LPR to learn about the work we do and each horses rehabilitation story, the ranch positively impacts so many people's lives from children to adults. Laughing Pony Rescue is a very special rescue.
Laughing Pony Rescue has saved hundreds, and continues to save, hundreds of horses, ponies, donkeys and many farm animals who are literally days, sometimes hours away from a horrific death. The dedication of Laughing Pony Rescue to this mission is seldom seen. I am proud and grateful to be a part of something so special, both as a donor and a volunteer.
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I am a Volunteer at Laughing Pony Rescue, a donor to many animal rescue organizations, as well as an owner of 2 horses. I have learned so much from Celia. This organization is life saving and changing for so many horses. Donations to Laughing Pony Rescue all go to their rescue efforts, and to the rehoming of many horses and donkeys who were otherwise looking at a very sad future, or none at all.
I HAVE BEEN VOLUNTEERING WITH LPR FOR 12 YEARS. OVER THAT TIME, I HAVE WITNESSED THE HARD WORK AND DEDITCATION CELIA, AND ALL THE VOLUNTEERS, PUT INTO CARING FOR RESUCED HORSES AND FARM ANIMALS. ADDITIONALLY, COUNTLESS HOURS ARE SPENT RESCUING HORSES FROM SLAUTERHOUSES AND OTHER TRAGIC SITUATIONS. THEY HAVE NO VOICE AND CELIA IS READY AT ANY TIME, DAY OR NIGHT, TO STEP IN. IT TAKES A LOT OF MONEY TO RESCUE HORSES FROM SLAUGHTERHOUSES, TRANSPORT THEM OUT, PROVIDE MEDICAL CARE AND REABILITATE THEM. IT IS THROUGH DONATIONS THAT SHE HAS THE ABILITY TO SAVE AND CARE FOR THESE AMAZING ANIMALS. EVERY PENNY COUNTS AND IS APPRECIATED. I AM THANKFUL FOR LPR AND HOPE EVERYONE GETS INVOLVED TO HELP US RESCUE AND SAVE AS MANY ANIMALS AS POSSIBLE.
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Laughing Pony Rescue is an amazing ranch that rescues horses from very sad situations. Celia tireless works day in and day out to love and care for these horses that have no voice. Yet she hears them, understands them and rehabilitates them back to happiness. I am thankful to be able to help LPR in any way that I can and would encourage other to give as well. Horses deserve to live a safe and kind life, just like all other living creatures. LPR helps make this happen everyday.
For over 10 years I have volunteered for Laughing Pony Rescue and I am still amazed by their uncompromising dedication not only to the equines and other farm animal on their ranch, but to their strong outreach program to help save horses throughout the region. Rarely, do you find such dedication from donors, volunteers and management to rescue equine and farm animals that are in great need of help. Please support this operation.
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Very rarely have I come across a non-profit organization that spends 98% of the money they raise and energy on the animals they are trying to save. laughing Pony Rescue works tirelessly seven days a week, 52 weeks a year caring for and rescuing equines and farm animals in need.
I’ve been with Laughing Pony Rescue for over 5 years now and love and appreciate the dedication, love, passion and TIME I get to experience 5 days a week working with the owner Ciela. Caring for these spectacular rehabilitated animals is such a rewarding experience to be involved with. Super grateful to be here at Laughing Pony Rescue!!!!
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I've been a volunteer for Laughing Pony Rescue for a little over 2 years and love everything about it! Ciela is such an exceptionally passionate and caring woman who helps give these broken rescues a chance to trust and love again, and for that I'm grateful to be part of her passion for saving, placing and rehabilitating these beautiful equines!
I have been a volunteer for Laughing Pony Rescue for the past four years. This ranch is an amazing rescue ranch and a place I truly treasure. They have day camps and summer camps with educational programs teaching equine care in an environment where students can have fun learning. It is worth the time to come out and visit to see for yourself! ❤️
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LPR is an amazing ranch to volunteer at. If you love the outdoors and working with rescue horses, donkeys and farm animals, then this is the place to be. The Educational Programs provided for the children are truly one-of-kind “wonderful”! It is great making new friends with all the kind-hearted volunteers.
I have volunteered with numerous animal rescue organizations and I can say that Laughing Pony Rescue is no doubt one of the best. The passion from Celia, the founder, as well as the dedication from every volunteer is like nothing I've ever experienced. The farm animals are beyond well cared for and the mission of the organization rings true in everything they do.
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I have been volunteering with LPR for over two years and have loved every minute of it. Celia (the owner) is beyond passionate about what she does, which is apparent in how healthy and happy all of her animals are. In addition to caring for the animals at the San Diego location, Celia and the LPR team also save horses and farm animals across the country from abuse, neglect, and slaughter every single month. It's not every day that you find an organization that gives back to the community, saves lives, cares for animals, and makes life better for everyone who volunteers!
Laughing Pony is an amazing non-profit charity dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of horses and donkeys scheduled for slaughter. They offer various classes and experiences through which the community may realize the importance of their work. I commend the commitment and hard work exhibited by Celia, the volunteers, and the sponsors. If you have the chance to see it all at work by visiting the facility at Rancho Santa Fe I encourage you to do so. It’s such a positive impact in today’s world!
I've been volunteering with LPR and can honestly say I've never seen horses cherished and cared for as well as these. All of the volunteers and management are thoroughly dedicated to the welfare of the horses. Considering there are so many either on their way to slaughter or being mistreated or neglected, it's rewarding to be just a little part of the solution. I love their motto, " Saving just one horse will not change the world........
But surely it will change the world......
For that one horse."
I had a great experience with a guided tour of Laughing Pony Rescue. The staff/Volunteers care for their “residents” with love and compassion. I wish I lived closer to enjoy the gift these horses are to those around them. Keep up the great work
Had the opportunity to tour the facility. Celia does amazing work. What a fantastic cause to support. She puts her whole heart and soul into caring for those special animals.
Laughing Pony is one of those rare charities where nearly every penny received goes into protecting and saving animal's lives! I've volunteered for LPR for over a year and it is truly life-changing for so many animals in need.
I have had the opportunity to tour the facility of the Laughing Pony Rescue. I was so impressed with the volunteer efforts and the compassionate care of the animals. They do a great job utilizing any donations for the maximum benefit of the horses. It was great to see the horses that had been abused in the past so well cared for.
Laughing Pony Rescue is not just a local nonprofit but one that makes a difference throughout the country.
I am incredibly lucky to have volunteered with Laughing Pony for over a year now. Laughing Pony is the most amazing organization for multiple reasons. The animal residents are cared for second to none, the rescue efforts of Celia and her team are nothing short of amazing, and the education provided to the community is priceless. I have trained to be an Equine Specialist for Mental Health and Learning specifically for LPR and to help educate and help in any way that I can.
LPR has been such a blessing to me, and my time with the rescue has helped me through one of the hardest times in my life. This is an amazing organization and does wonderful work in saving beautiful animals that are in such desperate need of help.
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I discovered LPR during one of the hardest times in my life. My time with the animals, the incredible amount of knowledge I have gained, and the people that I've met through this organization have all been both healing and amazing. So many animals that were in danger are safe now because of LPR, and they are now leading new lives in their forever homes.
As a Trustee of a family foundation it has been a pleasure to support LPR with grants and gifts. It is entirely volunteer run, provides loving and extraordinary care to the rescues on site and Celia works 24/7 to rescue and place hundreds of other horses in good homes. Wonderful cause and worthy organization.
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LPR is a very special place! Entirely run by volunteers, under the direction of their passionate and knowledgeable founder, they provide loving care for rescue horses on site as well as in a broad network. I am a volunteer ‘worker bee””and learn so much every shift from Celia and the horses that I, too, have become passionate. Their dedication to providing equine therapy programs and education to children on horsemanship is invaluable to the community and reminds us all to respect all living creatures, four hoofs or two feet.
I have closely watched over the past several years how LPR has worked tirelessly to save any animal, especially equine. Maintaining the LPR ranch that homes several horses, goats and donkeys is a full-time job itself. Importantly, the ranch helps put a "real" face on a great organization. But LPR doesn't stop there, they continue to actively save equines and farm animals throughout the Western states with their team of volunteers. The best part is that 98% of all donations go to saving and supporting neglected animals.
Laughing Pony Rescue has been saving horses and ponies for years. It is maintained by a dedicated group of excellent, hardworking, and dedicated volunteers. After working with Celia and her people for several months, it is apparent that this is a quality organization totally focused on rescuing the forgotten, abused, mistreated, and ill animals under their care. This is is a worthy organization to which you can give of your resources, time, and attention.
I’ve been volunteering for just a couple months now and it’s the most rewarding couple hours of my week. Not only am I blown away by how much care is put into each animal, but the work that goes into it. It’s been a great place to learn, grow, conquer fears, work hard and be a part of something that is making a difference. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to serve.
A mighty horse is as helpless in the face of cruelty, callousness, and neglect as a tiny puppy. Size isn’t protection against pain or fear. But saving a horse is different from taking in a dog or a cat; caring for equines is no mean feat at the best of times. In space, in food, in every cost: you wouldn’t think that something so big could be so helpless. Or require so much patience, trust, and faith.
Every animal deserves life and love. Those that have been abandon need it most of all. The people behind Laughing Pony Rescue have set themselves a massive task in trying to help as many wayward equines as they can, and they do so happily. It is the worthiest of callings, and I am proud to support them.
Laughing Pony Rescue is an amazing organization. The volunteers are great and you can tell how much they care about each and every animal that they rescue! It is so wonderful to hear about and see the positive transformations that the rescues go through with the care and love from LPR.
I submited my application and availability to LPR for consideration as a valued volunteer at this property.
I knew particular and specific qualifications were required to maintain their standards of safety and animal “first” priorities.
WOW!!!!!! When I was accepted as a valued volunteer I was honored!!! Celia runs a program by which all rescue operations should be compared.
Sherry Moseley
There is so much knowledge here to tap into all while helping take care and interact with horses and animals while getting you hang dirty with some good old fashion work.
I have know Celia Sciacca for over 30 years. Even before she founded this wonderful organization she was an advocate for horses and any animals in need.
Laughing Pony Rescue, besides saving horses educates people and young children
on the proper care and treatment of these wonderful creatures.
Thank you to all of those involved in being the voice of these helpless animals.
Marie Allen
This is a great place run by a wonderful person who cares so much about the horses in her care. No only does she take care of the horses in her care, who have been saved from horrible conditions, she helps to save other horses at feed lots from the horrible fate of slaughter. I volunteered for a short period of time and Celia is an absolutely amazing person with an amazing heart ❤️ we are lucky to have her in our community!
I enjoy volunteering at LPR it is a great environment with nice people and fantastic horses. I also make donations to this organization because I can see it is for a very good cause.
I have been Volunteer at the ranch for a couple years now. I love working at the ranch with all these amazing kind hearted people. The ranch provides a very positive interaction with horses. My grandchildren came to one of the fundraiser events and had their first pony ride! These horses are such great teachers with their kind and gentle souls. It was wonderful to see the kids fall in lOVE with the horses!
I first came to know of Laughing Pony Rescue before the organization had it's 501(c)3 status and it was doing wonderful things then. Those things have only increased as it has been able to build programming and garner the support of donors as a 501(c)3 non-profit.
As a donor, volunteer, and board member, I have watched Celia guide LPR and it's volunteers in it's mission of rescuing equines and educating the community about equine rescue. Celia's first and foremost concern is for the horse and it's well being. She will move heaven and earth if she needs to in an effort to make the best decision for that given horse and provide the necessary care. Learning to care for these magnificent creatures is not the only benefit a volunteer derives from being a part of LPR but one also comes to understand how trust and respect can be developed between a human and a horse.
It is truly a magical place and I have been blessed to have spent many years being part of Laughing Pony Rescue.
I have been volunteering at this amazing rescue every week for 3 years now. I had no horse experience prior, but Celia has taught me so much. It is a wonderful place to learn about horses and meet new people.
I have volunteered every Monday afternoon with my sister for years, it’s a highlight of our week to be outdoors with the horses. But it’s not just an equine rescue organization - one memorable day a family of tiny ducklings trekked down the driveway quacking away! Celia rounded them up, created a protected shelter complete with water trough swimming pool, and then fostered them until they were adopted!
I am both a volunteer and a donor to this organization. I've even gotten some of my family to volunteer and donate. I did my research on local rescues to volunteer it about a year ago and found this amazing ranch and I've been going 3-4 times a week ever since! This organization stands for so much that I believe in. The work all these people do for animals is truly amazing and I'm so proud to be a part of it. It's a lot of hard work but worth every second of it to know how many lives are being saved.
I have volunteered at laughing Pony for more than 10 years. I have seen many animals arrive emaciated and injured with wild mistrusting natures and after months of patient, tender-loving care they improve to the point that even small children can ride them. Celia takes great care to place these rehabilitated animals with new owners who will continue to treat them with care and compassion. It is a 24/7 work of love .
As previous volunteer for this organization, I saw first-hand how big a difference these folks make in the lives of rescued horses. Many of them saved from slaughter houses. They do this on a shoestring budget...day in and day out. If you have horses in your heart, I encourage you to donate. Even a little bit can help save or care for a horse in need.
I have volunteered at Laughing Pony Rescue since 2012. I was blown away by how much energy and care goes into taking care of rescue equines even though I had taken care of horses before. I have met the most wonderful, dedicated, hard-working people and learned an incredible amount since I started volunteering. Not only have I learned how to safely handle, feed, groom and exercise rescue equines, I've learned how to trailer, medicate, quarantine and even train them. I am extremely sensitive to the plight of helpless animals and am overjoyed to report that the equines at Laughing Pony Rescue are treated with the best possible care around the clock. LPR has also rescued hundreds of slaughter-bound equines through their network of rescuers across the country. This is an amazing organization.
LPR has taught me so much about rehabbing and taking care of horses. I never knew of half of the different industries that horses get saved of on a daily basis. There are horses at the ranch that come from all different backgrounds - auctions, feedlots, Premarin ranches, neglect, etc. but once they set foot on the ranch they know their safe and pretty soon they know not just when dinner time is, but they know when vitamin time is or hot water “tea time” is. That’s how much care Celia puts into these horses.
My wife has been volunteering for the Laughing Pony since 2011. She loves helping out at the ranch every Friday morning. She thinks the world of Celia and her mission and she truly feels part of the family. I have had occasion to join her at various ranch events throughout the years, and I have found everyone involved to be a wonderful, giving group of people. This is truly one outstanding organization.
Laughing Pony Rescue is a amazing organization, with all donations going directly to support rescue. We have known Celia for over 5 years, since she very graciously allowed our 11 year-old son to volunteer at the horse rescue (which he continues to do to this day!). Through this experience, he learned responsibility, empathy and respect. We have also adopted two ponies from LPR, and the continued support from Celia has been very helpful. This is a first-rate organization, and we do and will continue to support them. Wonderful to be able to support an organization which is very honest and transparent with their goals and donations.
I’ve been volunteering for 4 years at Laughing Pony Rescue. It has been rewarding for me and the ranch. I have seen Celia rehabilitate so many horses and donkeys. Celia takes the animals in as if they are her children. She tends to them 24/7. I had only gone on the occasional horseback ride as a child growing up. I am now so comfortable around the horses/donkeys and love the interaction I have with them.
It has been so rewarding for me. I love my afternoons at the ranch.
I joined Laughing Pony as a volunteer because I love horses and I gained so much more than I could have anticipated. Celia is an incredible person and has an amazing wealth of knowledge about horses. Everything that you do at the ranch serves an important purpose and she makes sure to teach you along the way WHY everything matters. The work carries so much meaning and everyone who works there, because of Celia, is so incredibly passionate about it. If you're looking to give back, learn about horses, love horses, and are willing to put 100% dedication and effort in, this is a great place to go. Please, please, maintain discipline, respect, and an open mind to the work. The work that is done at Laughing Pony goes a VERY long way and is INCREDIBLY important. Laughing Pony saves hundreds of horses and you can be a part of that!
Over the years, I have volunteered at a number of non-profit organizations. I have found Laughing Pony Rescue to be among the top organizations when it comes to interacting with its volunteers to create a "positive" and "educational" environment for all. The work is hard but very rewarding when you see first-hand the impact it has on all the animals. Everyday there is something new to learn and enjoy.
I volunteered here from 2016 until I moved out of state recently. I loved volunteering here, it was truly such a rewarding experience and a great opportunity to learn from so many knowledgeable people. I never thought I would enjoy cleaning water buckets on a rainy winter day or mucking stalls during a heatwave but every minute was 100% worth it when you see how much your work impacts these animals lives.
I started doing sessions with the owner, Celia, when my husband bought me a Groupon about a year ago. I called the rescue and they didn't have any times that fit my schedule before the Groupon expired. However, they had times available later on in the month and let me redeem my expired Groupon without anyway extra fee, which was awesome. My session with Celia that day went so well that I've been coming back ever since. She is so knowledgeable and informative; I always walk away feeling like I've learned so much. She can be strict at times, but only in order to keep the riders, the volunteers, or the horses safe. She is just an incredible teacher.
Celia and all of the volunteers are always working so hard to maintain the ranch and take care of all of the horses, who all look very happy and healthy. The level of passion that the rescue has for these wonderful animals is just infectious. It is a wonderful place filled with inspiring people. I love Laughing Pony Rescue!
Review from Guidestar
We took our children, 6 and 5 yrs old, for their first horse back riding lesson. For my 5yr old, it was her birthday wish and a big deal since she fears animals. Celia and volunteers were welcoming and so very friendly that made both of our kids at ease and very comfortable right form the start. The volunteers went with the kids pace. We loved the horses overall, we've never seem such friendly horses that actually wanted to mingle with people. The horses look very healthy and are very well treated.
Thanks to Laughing Pony for a truly wonderful experience our kids and us will remember.
Review from Guidestar
I am volunteering at Laughing Pony Ranch for two years now and I loved every second of it. Unlike just taking riding lessons you learn so much about horses including being involved with training or re-training horses, taking care of sick horses and nursing them back to health. The most rewarding experience is when one of the fosters finds a great new home. One aspect I particularly appreciate about Celia, the owner is that she regularly checks on adopted horses to make sure they are happy, and if necessary, takes them back or keeps working with them if the new owners need her advice. She is very responsible too by not taking in more horses that the rescue is capable of taking care of. Even though this is a difficult decision sometimes. The rescue actively tries to help owners place their horses if they are no longer able to take care of them due to various reasons in these cases. On top of it I think everyone does a great job in helping with the lessons, which helps with covering the expenses. I would wholeheartedly recommend volunteering here!
Review from Guidestar
Keystone Academy, a small private school in Solana Beach, took 5 students to Laughing Pony Rescue for volunteer work. Students met the horses, learned their stories, and helped brush and feed them. Our students had a wonderful experience and Celia was warm and inviting.
Review from Guidestar
My first riding lesson occurred at laughing pony rescue and it was an incredibly fun and informative experience! The staff was incredibly helpful and the numerous volunteers greatly inspired me. Celia was incredibly kind and she took the time to teach me not only how to ride, but she also showed me how the horses interact and how to read their body! I would definitely recommend taking lessons at this rescue if you love horses and are first learning!
I went to Laughing Pony Rescue and took a lesson that I had purchased on groupon. The staff were very knowledgable and I learn more than I ever imagined I would from a one hour riding lesson. I am now taking lessons regularly at Laughing Pony Rescue and I always learn something new. I have very much enjoyed my weekly lessons on Johnny. This is a great cause that always exceeds my expectations.
I love Laughing Pony Rescue! They worked so hard to show me a ton of safe riding tips. I had never been around horses before and was honestly pretty nervous about being near them (I had received a set of lessons as a birthday gift) but all my concerns were swept away once I was there! The staff was patient and understanding, and was sure to explain everything in detail. They expanded my knowledge not just of riding, but horses in general. I came to LPR initally unsure of if I would even go more than once, but now my classes are the highlight of my week!
Review from Guidestar
Great staff & cause! I purchased a Groupon for a lesson and used it about a week ago, and can't wait to go back! The staff are all knowledgeable about riding and horses just in general, I totally recommend going there for a lesson or even just to help out!
Review from Guidestar
I had lessons and found the level of expertise excellent and learned a lot in the lesson. Everyone was very professional, prompt, and ready when I arrived. The atmosphere is welcoming and very accommodating to me and my time during the lesson. It was easy to schedule my lesson and had my initial call returned promptly and courteously. They are all very knowledgeable about horses and riding and bend over backwards to make the experience an excellent one.
Review from Guidestar
We tried Laughing Pony Rescue Ranch with a Groupon that they offered recently. Our daughter left in tears after 5 minutes on a horse. They hurried us away saying that we could give the second lesson to a friend as our daughter didn't want to return and was traumatized. The next day they backed out and said that we couldn't pass the unused second lesson to anyone else. A big waste of money and a generally horrible experience. The whole process was very factory-like. "Get them in and get them out" We had a very bad experience and obviously do not recommend. We've been to other horse riding ranches that were great. This one was not.