RANCHO SANTA FE — Animal rescue is something that pulls on heartstrings because it is a promise to look after those who need it. In Rancho Santa Fe, Laughing Pony Rescue, Inc., a nonprofit was established in 2009 to care for horses.
“We rescue horses that have been abandoned or live in negative conditions, are bound for a slaughterhouse, or from a Premarin farm,” said Carol Ford, director of Laughing Pony Rescue. “We restore them to health both physically and emotionally and try to find loving homes for them.”
Ford said there is a need for organizations such as theirs because people read and hear so much about dogs and cats who are in need of forever homes, but the sometimes this message for horses falls through the cracks.
“But it exists and is just as true for horses as it is for smaller pets. Horses love to please and have unique personalities. Finding loving homes is not easy because they need a lot of room and they are more expensive to care for than the smaller pets,” she said. Ford added, “A big factor that horses face, however, is they are bought and sold to slaughterhouses and shipped abroad for human consumption.”
In an effort to protect equines, Laughing Pony Rescue is dedicated to the welfare of these special animals.
And their upcoming fundraiser is one way they are doing this. While there will be an undercurrent of education, it promises to be a memorable and fun event: The Annual Gala Luncheon at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club, Nov. 12 at 11 a.m.
Ford said they hold various fundraising events throughout the year because they operate completely on donations and grants. However, this gala luncheon is the largest fundraiser they have ever embarked on.
While the RSF Golf Club doesn’t disappoint in terms of ambiance and savories, many items will also be up for auction. Ford noted that several local celebrities will be taking part in the afternoon.
“Larry Wight is the auctioneer, Richard Lederer is conducting a poker clinic, and Cowboy Jack will be the musical entertainment,” she said. “Several local boutiques will model and sell clothing items, too.”
It’s an afternoon filled with someone for everyone.
“It will be an opportunity for folks to enjoy themselves, purchase some holiday gifts, and help save a horse’s life,” Ford said.
To learn more about purchasing tickets to this fundraiser, volunteering, donation opportunities and sponsoring a horse, please visit: laughingponyrescue.com or call (760) 828-5736.
This story has been changed since its original posting to reflect that Graham Ledger won’t serve as emcee for the event.
