I support Dorset Equine Rescue because they are making a difference in the area of horse care in our State. They have bravely assisted in the case of Freisians of Majesty and have stepped up to care for the neglected horses. With their new property they will be able to care for more.
I don’t know where Vermont would be without Dorset Equine Rescue. No other rescue has put the time and energy into supporting local horses in many, many years. Their work in animal cruelty, financial support and surrender intake is so needed in our communities. I personally thank them as the founder and advisor for the Vermont Large Animal Technical Rescue Coalition. We had a very difficult rescue and an injured horse with no vet. I was finally able to get a vet to see the horse with a promise of payment from DER. I know the owner and I are both eternally grateful.
The Dorset Equine Rescue navigates the sometimes heartbreaking realities of abuse and neglect with expertise, amazing equine professionals, and compassion that creates a much needed safe landing for horses in need. I have seen the level of care and commitment in their rescue work, and it is remarkable. Each horse they rescue gets the highest standard of care and a commitment to the best possible outcome, from the time of rescue, through rehabilitation and retraining, and ideally a forever home with a carefully screened new owner. The Dorset Equine Rescue is my charity of choice and I'm so thankful for their work to help horses in need.
From day one, I’ve been a grateful supporter of the Dorset Equine Rescue for many reasons, all of them encapsulated in one word: uncompromising. In a world where efforts to combat suffering so often fall short, Jen and her team move mountains and never back down. This organization runs on grit, determination and unwavering faith in the magic that is the DER community. I support them because they support deserving horses in dire need; I support them because they support my faith in humanity.
DER steps in when people let our beautiful equine friends down.
They bring hope and nourishment back to these majestic animals. They build trust and impart humane training, and then find them loving homes.
They are my go-to nonprofit for donations when I feel hopeless, want to do good in the world, or simply want to express thanks for all the joy that horses have given me throughout my life.
I can't do what they do. But I can help them do it with my donation. So can you!
DER won my heart several years ago through their dedication to each horse with total focus from inside out. Like Worthy who was in critically poor health & was defeated emotionally. With time, he became a beauty again, but more he learned to trust and to accept love. This total healing is no stranger at DER.
In January 2022, Dorset Equine Rescue was asked by authorities in Vermont to assist in the efforts to remove a herd of seven neglected horses from a farm where they were not adequately cared for, and allowed to roam free. This neglect had been occurring for years, and the horses were more or less feral. After several months of care and rehabilitation, Dorset Equine Rescue was able to offer these horses to appropriate new homes. I received the mare Fayre Vermont Maid, now known as "Josie" by her friends, to be a retired companion to my other horses. DER helped her heal physically and mentally before offering her out for adoption, which was no small task given how little human contact the horses likely had. Josie is just one of many horses from similar situations that DER has helped put on the path to a better life.
https://www.samessenger.com/news/28-animals-removed-from-dunsmore-road-property-after-run-in-with-a-loose-horse-alleged/article_902c1ba0-8078-11ec-8d39-af58dc71b063.html
Over the past 8 or 9 years we have welcomed four amazing horses to our farm that were rehabilitated from Dorset Equine Rescue. I have a high appreciation for the work they do!
Bet ya didn’t know an equine rescue could help you with your barn design! My husband and I scheduled a visit to Dorset Equine Rescue and Jen spent over half an hour talking with us about important things to keep in mind when building our shelter and creating our pastures. We didn’t end up adopting from DER,, but they were instrumental in helping us build a fantastic run in for 2 adoptees from another VT Rescue and we are extremely grateful for that!. Who knows maybe our herd of 2 will grow in the future
I take great care selecting nonprofits to support - I don't have a lot of extra funds available, but what I do have I want to help support an organization that is on the cutting edge of rescue, and the Dorset Equine Rescue fits that. They are local, have a dedicated volunteer base, and an excellent business plan. Plus they do amazing work!!! Wish I had more to contribute - they are making a difference.
One of the best! I have nothing but praise for this organization. I was fortunate enough to find DER when I moved to the area. Not only do I give my time and money, I am a proud owner of one of their rescue horses. Their work rescuing horses is unsurpassed in the New England region.
My wife, at our advanced ages, had just started taking riding lessons again when I suffered a spinal cord injury necessitating long and complex surgery. She found herself having to stay at home to care for me. DER (Dorset Equine Rescue) is just up the road from us and she started volunteering there. She discovered that her main interest in horses was being with them rather than just riding them. We ended up adopting two of their rescues as pasture companions since they were too old to ride especially with my new handicap that prevfents me from riding. We, therefore, over the past several years, have extensive first hand knowlege of the incredible work they do. I can't say too much good about them, following their recues (multiple) of neglected and / or abused horses or their caring for animals whose owners can no longer care for them. I give them my highest praise.
I have known and worked with The Dorest Equine rescue for over 10 years now, They are dedicated group to rescuing and saving equines from the slaughter pipeline, taking in horses from cruelty cases across VT to owner surrenders. They are one of the few rescues in VT that are able to take in horses from cruelty cases. The care the horses receive is top notch. They offer horse owners assistance with things such as hay bank money. The horses go on to loving homes. They are always willing to take a horse back if the adoption for any reason does not work out. 5 stars is not enough for this rescue - I would give them 10 stars
The Dorset Equine rescue is a amazing non profit. The time and dedication this non profit puts into saving horses lives is inspiring. The commitment to there cause is unparalleled. The owner and founder Jen Straub and her staff and volunteers goes above and beyond everyday to help horses in need. They house, feed, nurse back to health, and love all the horses they can . The Dorset Equine Rescue is a wonderful charity. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
It has been an honor to help these incredibly generous and caring people. I have been a volunteer with DER and have continued to learn more about the care of these wonderful animals. The staff is caring and supportive of one another and so friendly and appreciative to anyone who can give their time in any way. They are all truly a blessing for the horses and it is so rewarding to see how their loving care transforms these animals in even a short time. My husband and I are fortunate to have adopted two older mares that were perfectly matched for us and we are so grateful!
I have helped DER since the beginning, mostly with hooves as I am a Farrier. Also with logistics, and transporting rescued horses. and keeping rescued horses in our barn when DER is too full
We have helped the Dorset Equine Rescue with both transports and fostering over the last few years and are always so very impressed with their compassion, dedication and knowledge. They are truly a family of dedicated volunteers that work together to do what is needed for each and every equine that comes into their care. An amazing organization that deserves our support in whatever way one can manage!
I have adopted a mini horse and a horse from DER in the last 4 years. Summer of 2022, I lost my 20 year old QH gelding to colic. I was devastated and didn't know if I would ever trail ride again. I delivered a donation to the farm and asked Jen if she would keep an eye out for a trail horse. She said "I have the perfect one for you, a Morgan mare". Quite a change from the gelding I was thinking. I have had her almost a year, riding her in all weather and she is AMAZING. What a perfect fit for me, I pinch myself after every ride. I am so grateful that DER saves horses like my Jasmine. The care that she got, the training she received and the adoption process that puts these horses into loving homes giving these horses a new life is incredible.
For the past nine years, I have brought HS students to DER for Service Day. What a tremendous opportunity for young people to give back to an organization that gives so much to these in need horses.
I’m so thankful for all of the wonderful work done by the Dorset Equine Rescue. They deal with so many heartbreaking situations with expertise and compassion. I know that you can save every animal but a difference can be made by supporting organizations like them.
I have also felt that donations are used efficiently and judiciously. I would donate more if I could.
In a state where anyone can decide they are a " rescue" without licensing or oversight, Dorset Equine Rescue stands out in part because they have actively sought ( and achieved) certification by a global animal welfare organization. In every way, DER goes above and beyond what they *have* to do to support horses in need. They work hard to improve horse welfare on multiple levels: from hands- on rescue and rehabilitation to contacting legislators to pass better laws for animal protection, to offering educational opportunities to law enforcement and the community. I am inspired by their dedication and professionalism and am proud to be a DER volunteer!
In the course of my work as a law enforcement professional I was assigned to an animal cruelty case involving numerous types of animals, including horses. Throughout my investigation, I worked closely with the Dorset Equine Rescue (DER).They provided me with information, a safe location for the abused and neglected horses, and supplied personnel to assist with the retrieval and care of all the animals. DER is deeply committed to equine welfare, and has stepped up to better understand and assist law enforcement with investigations and seizures. Their meticulous documentation, well-trained volunteers and strong communication skills make DER a dependable and easy to work with organization, invaluable to law enforcement throughout the state.
They do all of this because of their love and passion for horses. DER, thank you for all that you do!
I was connected with Dorset Equine Rescue through a dear friend and horse expert. She recommended that I reach out to this rescue about fostering horses to support their mission. I had an amazing experience with both Tiffany and Jen as I walked through the screening and evaluation process. It has been an honor to give love and care for the two beautiful horses that they entrusted to me while they wait for their forever home.
For those of us that thrive on the aroma of horses flowing in fresh air, DER is heaven on earth.
I had the joy of volunteering for them; the horses. The organization has always focused on the horses and the well being of the less fortunate. We walk through snow, on ice, in the rain or sun to ensure these majestic and grateful souls have food, fresh water and medications. During the hard work, there’s bonds, each horse has their own personality and that’s what made each visit unique and memorable.
There are two accomplishments that I experienced that truly moved me…
When a horse comes to DER nervous and malnourished, receives treatment and care, now making them healthy and full of life displaying playful antics with their fellow herd members (now including the kind hands of humans).
The matching of a revived horse spirit with the spirit of a human, both with sparkles of hope in their eyes and a future of light and love.
It’s a long road full of hard work for all involved. DER adapts, improves and grows…never faltering from the focus-the horses.
DER is an outstanding rescue! We have adopted 3 beautiful horses and couldn’t be more pleased with the process each time. Jen has always been so easy to work with and she is so compassionate.
Dorset Equine Rescue is a great rescue that was able assist me with an animal cruelty case by stepping up and taking in two unhandled youngsters. They did an amazing job recuperating these fillies and training them so they found amazing homes.
DER is a fantastic horse rescue. The staff is very knowledgeable about horses and you can see how much they love and care for the horses in every way. Jen and the staff will do whatever is possible to help out a horse in need.
Dorset Equine Rescue is the most wonderful caring rescue. They are wonderful caring people who deserve to be acknowledged for their greatness. Getting older and living on social security with two horses that will always remain in my heart. Giving them up broke my heart. However, knowing what the rescue can do for them helps my heart. The cost to keeping them was rising with the cost of things going up in this country. One bale of hay was $10.00. On social security that adds up fast.
Dorset understood and decided to help me and them. I can not say enough good about Dorset. Everywhere else that I called was unable help. Dorset did not hesitate to step up. Jen is just the most wonderful person and her trainer Tiffany and the others are all wonderful as well.
The Dorset Equine Rescue was the idea of a remarkable woman, who took that idea and created an organization that not only rescues horses from certain slaughter or starvation, but that also helps people in their own community meet the needs of their beloved animals when things get tough. It is a grueling thing to run a rescue. Jen and the Dorset Equine Rescue do so with love, great heart and courage. I have seen them grow from a tiny organization to one that helps many horses and horse owners each year. This is a trustworthy, honest organization run by some of the best humans I've met. Bless them.
I have worked with DER for several years, both adopting and fostering for them. They have been the most wonderful people to work with. They are extremely knowledgeable in the field of horses. They do an amazing job matching horses with the right people, to give both a wonderful relationship. The horses are extremely well cared for, and the facility beautifully well maintained. Always available for support or advice even after adoption. It's been an extreme pleasure working with and being connected to this organization.
I am very fortunate to become one of their fosters. Dorset is amazing to work with and has great communication with me. During my time fostering I have been lucky to help work with horses that need a little extra love and learn how to stand, walk on lead rope and learn how to get their feet trimmed. I love the process on how Dorset equine rescue allows the horses to become their best and finding an amazing forever home for them.
I am proud to serve as a board member for this wonderful nonprofit. The organization is dedicated to saving & improving the lives of many equine each year. The care & compassion they show these animals is top notch; always with the goal to find each & everyone their loving forever home. These qualities, among many others, are what enticed me to become more involved.
I cannot say enough positive things about the Dorset Equine Rescue. Every horse they save from auction, abuse or neglect has hit the jackpot. From caring for their physical and mental needs, to finding loving homes for them and everything in between, this Rescue is thorough. I also love that the horses are given the time they need to recover before they are put up for adoption. I have been donating for years because of the loving care they provide for these horses.
I first came upon the Dorset Equine Rescue years ago when I donated funds to help them save a sweet older mare from going to slaughter. Instead of her being shipped to Mexico she went to Vermont and DER named her Lorelei. Her life was so much better. The love and care that she received proved to me that I needed to support this wonderful rescue. I have watched Jen and her staff save the lives of so many equines over the years. Their devotion to these neglected and emotionally damaged animals is inspiring. To see the positive change that occurs in a horse after it has been at DER is amazing. It is hard to believe you are looking at the same animal who arrived at such a low point in it's life. I love seeing the updates on the fantastic forever homes so many of them have after being adopted. I am so proud to call myself a donor for the Dorset Equine Rescue. ONE. GREAT. PLACE.
There is nothing better than knowing your donation is going to such a great cause! I have personally met Jen and had a tour. What she is doing is truly amazing! It is also so amazing to watch the horses transformations through her amazing updates on social media.
My favorite horse to follow last year was Worthy and he will forever be in my heart. Thank you Jen for all you do.
I adopted my miniature donkey, Walter, from Dorset Equine Rescue. I believe he was one of their first rescues. Jen Straub was very thorough with background and veterinary references and I loved that she cares so much about the animals and wants their futures to be happier than their pasts. I always refer people to her when looking for a new horse or donkey. They are a top notch horse rescue!
Dorset Equine Rescue rocks!!! They do so much for animals in need. It amazes me to see how far some of these animals can go, with this incredible group helping them get there. Compassionate, caring, dedicated, knowledgeable - Dorset Equine Rescue is all of these and more!
I have personally met many of the Dorset Equine rescues. The horses are always taken care of, above and beyond. Many of them have left horrible lives to finally be loved and saved. The extent that this rescue goes is truly admirable. I am so thankful for the Dorset Equine Rescue.
Dorset Equine Rescue (DER) is the real deal! If you are looking to support a horse rescue you cannot go wrong with this one. DER takes its rescue mission 100% seriously and is THE Vermont rescue making a difference for all kinds of horses in dire situations each and every day. DER is experienced, knowledgeable and committed and they strive to expand their services and ability to help more equines in more ways all the time. In 2021, DER directly saved dozens of horses in critical circumstances/condition - a record which continues to grow - and launched the Vermont Hay Bank, an outreach program designed to gift hay to owners struggling to feed their horses. Please donate to Dorset Equine Rescue; they are making a difference! Thank you.
The Dorset Equine Rescue is a reputable , professional and caring rescue. Each beautiful soul that gets rescued receive the best care in Veterinarian, Ferrier needs , feed, hay to start their road to recovery back to a healthy equine. During the rehabilitation process they receive training and the best loving and caring personal attention from each staff and volunteer in charge of their feed, turnout, cleaning pastures and stalls. In the process of adoption, each applicant is screened and a site inspection is conducted before approval. DER wants to make sure this will be a good fit and a forever loving home the rescue deserves. DER is the standard all rescue organizations would do well to follow.