In this episode of Saddle Talk, hosts Sandy and Cara sit down with Vera V-Abdallah, COO and founder of Love This Horse Equine Rescue in Antelope Valley, California.
From growing up in Europe with a German state certification in horse training to earning a law degree and working for the Department of Corrections, Vera brings a rare combination of European classical training, legal rigor, and unwavering passion to equine rescue.
Sandy, Cara, and Vera dive deep into what truly makes a successful horse rescue, including:
- The Reality of Rescue: Why Love This Horse focuses on under-saddle training, health, and behavior so rescue horses can become long-term “good citizens.”
- Busting Mare Stigmas: Why the prejudice against mares is completely unfounded and how building a bond with a mare can change your life.
- The Business of Saving Horses: Balancing a full-time career, managing 100 acres, and providing lifelong sanctuary for 70+ non-rideable horses.
- Cara’s Personal Story: How adopting her horse, Armani (a secret Lusitano!), from Vera completely changed her perspective on rescue animals.
- How You Can Help: The real math behind hay bills, veterinary costs, and why becoming a monthly sustaining donor makes all the difference.
Resources & How to Support:
- Website & Donations: Visit lovethishorse.org to make a one-time donation or sign up as a monthly sustaining member.
- Follow the Rescue: Keep up with available horses, trail rides, and updates on Facebook.
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