Willow’s Haven Farm Sanctuary, founded by Danielle Southerly, was inspired by a Tennessee Walking horse named Willow, who faced significant challenges in her previous life. After being rescued from a poor situation where she was overworked and suffered from severe foot problems, Willow found a safe haven at Southerly’s farm. The sanctuary aims to provide lifelong care for horses like Willow, who are often deemed unadoptable due to age, health issues, or behavioral challenges.
The nonprofit was established to prevent horses from ending up in the slaughter pipeline, emphasizing a commitment to lifelong care rather than adoption. Southerly personally covers the expenses for the horses until the sanctuary secures funding, highlighting the increasing crisis in the horse community, where many owners can no longer afford to care for their animals. Over the past two years, Southerly has rescued several horses, often collaborating with other rescues to find them safe homes.
Looking ahead, Southerly is focused on raising awareness and securing corporate sponsorships to support the sanctuary’s mission. She plans to launch an Equine Assisted Learning program to educate the public about the importance of horse welfare and the work of reputable rescues. Through her efforts, she aims to foster understanding and support for the challenges facing the horse community.
