The Cost of Rescuing Horses: Why Every Donation Matters
At Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary, our mission is to provide a safe and loving home for horses who have been abandoned, abused, neglected, or are simply unwanted. But the cost of caring for these majestic animals is no small feat. It’s a labor of love that requires dedication, resources, and the generous support of people like you.
We currently care for over 20 horses, including a gentle giant—a Belgian Draft horse named Doc. Alongside them, we also care for a few dogs and even a resilient 3-legged donkey. Every one of these animals has a story, and every one of them requires constant care to thrive. But what does that care look like? Let's break it down.
The Basics: Hay and Grain
At its core, horse care starts with something as simple as food. One bale of hay costs around $8.50, and for a herd of 20+ horses, this adds up quickly. On top of that, many of our horses require grain to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need, especially during rehabilitation. A bag of grain costs about $25.00. Feeding this many animals each day comes with a hefty price tag, but it’s essential for their health and recovery.
Specialized Care: Ferrier and Veterinary Costs
Maintaining a horse’s health goes far beyond food. Regular farrier care (hoof trimming and shoeing) is critical to their well-being, particularly for horses that have been neglected. Hoof care can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per horse, depending on whether they need trimming or special shoeing. Horses like Doc, our Belgian Draft, need specialized care due to their size and weight, and these costs can easily add up.
In addition to farrier services, every horse at the sanctuary requires routine veterinary care, vaccinations, and dental work. Emergencies, of course, are always a possibility, and when they happen, the bills can skyrocket into the thousands. Veterinary costs for horses easily range from $200 to $1,000+ per visit depending on the situation. Routine care alone, like deworming and vaccines, is a significant financial commitment.
Volunteering Our Hearts
One way we’re able to manage these costs is through our incredible team of volunteers. Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary is 100% volunteer-run, which means every hour of work is donated by people who are passionate about our mission. Whether it’s feeding, mucking stalls, or spending time with the animals, our volunteers are the heart and soul of the sanctuary.
However, even with the invaluable help of our volunteers, the cost of maintaining the sanctuary is high. From food to medical care and everything in between, it’s a constant financial challenge to keep the sanctuary running.
How You Can Help
While we’re committed to giving these animals the best care possible, we can’t do it without the support of our community. Every donation, whether it’s the price of a bale of hay or a vet bill, goes directly toward ensuring these animals live healthy and peaceful lives. Your support helps horses like Doc and our 3-legged donkey find a second chance at life.
If you’d like to contribute, consider donating to help cover the cost of hay, grain, farrier care, or veterinary services. Every bit counts when it comes to providing these animals with the care they deserve. Together, we can continue rescuing and rehabilitating these wonderful creatures, giving them a future full of hope and happiness.
Thank you for being part of our journey and for supporting Southern Sun Farm Sanctuary.
