Celebrating National Day of the Horse: Honoring Their Legacy and Supporting Their Future

Every December 13th, horse lovers nationwide celebrate National Day of the Horse, a special occasion dedicated to recognizing the profound influence horses have had on American history, culture, and daily life. This observance encourages people to pause, reflect, and honor the extraordinary partnership between humans and horses that has spanned centuries.

From plowing fields and powering early industries to serving in law enforcement, therapy programs, and family barns, horses have remained steadfast partners in work, sport, and companionship. Their contributions have shaped communities, sustained livelihoods, and provided comfort and connection across generations.

National Day of the Horse provides an opportunity not only to acknowledge this impact, but also to ensure that the horses who have given so much receive the care, dignity, and peaceful retirement they deserve. This mission has been at the heart of Ryerss Farm for more than 135 years.

Celebrating Horses and Their Stories at Ryerss Farm

Founded in 1888, Ryerss Farm is the oldest nonprofit horse sanctuary in the United States. For more than a century, the farm has provided a safe, loving, and permanent home for aged, abused, and injured horses that have spent their lives serving others. Every resident is welcomed into a community where they can graze on open pastures, form bonds with other horses, and live out their years with dignity and tranquility.

Each resident at Ryerss Farm has a unique story—some worked in lessons or therapy, while others competed or served their families faithfully. National Day of the Horse is a time to appreciate those stories and honor the horses who now enjoy their well-earned retirement at the farm.

Visitors are always welcome to join in that appreciation. Ryerss Farm is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with admission free for all. Strolling the property, meeting the residents, and discovering their histories is a memorable way to celebrate this special day.

Support Our Residents This Holiday Season and in Honor of National Day of the Horse

The care Ryerss provides, including nutrition, farrier work, dental care, veterinary services, safe shelter, and daily attention, is made possible through the generous support of the community. This holiday season, you can give a gift that honors these extraordinary animals and helps ensure their continued well-being:

• Horse Pedicure ($50): Treat a horse to a hoof trim! Horses require their hooves to be trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks. For $90, you can cover a pedicure for two horses.

• Dental Visit ($75): Provide an annual dental exam for a Ryerss horse and give the gift of a healthy smile.

• Greener Pastures Plate ($100): Honor a horse who has “Gone to Greener Pastures” with a commemorative plate.

• Memory Board Plate ($100): Honor someone by buying a plate for our memory board.

• Memory Plate ($300): Dedicate a brass plate in memory or honor of a friend or beloved animal.

• Horse Sponsorship ($500/year): Provide essential care and supplies for one of our residents. A convenient monthly plan of $42/month is also available.

• Stall Endowment ($3,000): Dedicate a stall with a brass plaque displaying your loved one’s name.

• Tree Sponsorship ($3,000): Place a plaque with your chosen name on one of our pasture trees to honor someone special.

A Lasting Commitment to These Majestic Creatures

Your support this holiday season, and in honor of National Day of the Horse, can provide a safe, peaceful, and joyful retirement for the horses at Ryerss Farm. This day serves as a reminder of the loyalty, strength, and companionship these animals have shared with us. Your generosity ensures they receive the care and respect they deserve in return.

To learn more about Ryerss Farm, our residents, or the various ways to give, please visit our website. Your gift is more than a donation; it is a lasting tribute to the horses’ legacy and a vital commitment to their future.