Together for a Greener pasture

Together for a Greener pastureTogether for a Greener pastureTogether for a Greener pasture

Join our community and take action to protect our thoroughbreds for future generations.

Join Us

(817) 717-0898

Together for a Greener pasture

Together for a Greener pastureTogether for a Greener pastureTogether for a Greener pasture

Join our community and take action to protect our thoroughbreds for future generations.

Join Us

(817) 717-0898

Helping Others Find The Magic in Life

Who We Are And Our Mission

   

About Enchanted Thoroughbreds

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and retraining retired Thoroughbred racehorses—while providing a healing sanctuary where both people and horses can recover, reconnect, and grow together.

After their racing careers end, many Thoroughbreds face uncertain futures—often requiring specialized medical care, patience, and training that make rehoming a challenge. We believe that with compassion and proper rehabilitation, every horse deserves a safe, purposeful, and love-filled second chance.

Our Mission

To rescue and rehabilitate retired Thoroughbreds, offering them a lifelong sanctuary and a renewed sense of purpose—
and to create a peaceful environment where humans and horses can heal side by side through connection, mindfulness, and understanding.

Our Philosophy

“Though much progress has been made in the area of Thoroughbred aftercare, we continue to see Thoroughbreds at low-end auctions, in kill pens, and in cruelty and neglect situations.”
— Kristin Werner, Senior Counsel, The Jockey Club

We work tirelessly to protect these horses from slaughter, neglect, and abandonment. Not every retired racehorse bears visible scars—some simply need time, trust, and care to rediscover their worth.

Through individualized rehabilitation programs, we collaborate with experienced trainers, veterinarians, and caregivers to address each horse’s unique physical and emotional needs. As they heal, these horses in turn help people rediscover peace, empathy, and purpose.

Healing Together

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, healing flows both ways.
Every horse that regains trust, and every person who finds comfort among them, becomes part of a shared journey toward renewal. Together, we build a space of compassion, dignity, and hope—where broken spirits mend, and new beginnings take root.

Because after everything horses have given us, it’s our turn to give back—and to heal beside them.


Why Are Thoroughbreds Found In Kill Pens And Neglected?

  

 

Why Thoroughbreds Need Us

When Thoroughbreds are forced into early retirement—often due to injury, lack of racing potential, or financial burdens—they are frequently sold privately for a low cost, put into quick-sale auctions, or simply given away. Sadly, this often becomes the perfect storm that leads these magnificent animals to kill pens, neglectful homes, or worse.

The original owners or trainers rarely intend for their horses to suffer these fates. But once a horse leaves the racetrack system, there are few safeguards in place. That’s where Enchanted Thoroughbreds steps in—rescuing the “unlucky ones” before they fall through the cracks. We offer them a second chance at life through safe sanctuary, comprehensive rehabilitation, and, whenever possible, placement in a loving forever home. Some will stay with us permanently, becoming part of our future equine-assisted therapy programs for U.S. veterans.

The Financial Realities of Racing

The cost of maintaining a racehorse on the track is staggering—averaging $5,000 per month. This includes:

  • Board and feed
     
  • Trainer and jockey fees
     
  • Farrier services
     
  • Veterinary care
     
  • Exercise rider
     
  • Stall and medical supplies
     
  • Race entry fees
     

This estimate does not include additional medical treatments or emergency expenses. The financial strain becomes even more daunting when you consider that most Thoroughbreds won’t start earning money within their first three months on the track—if they ever do. Before they even race, they undergo a minimum of two months of training—and even that is rarely enough.

To build a true equine athlete, heart and respiratory muscles must be conditioned gradually, and bones and joints need time to mature. The first six months of care and preparation can easily total $30,000 or more. For some, this investment never pays off—especially if early injuries derail their careers.

Why They Retire So Young

Thoroughbreds begin race training at just 1 to 1.5 years old, long before their skeletal and muscular systems are fully developed. In fact, a Thoroughbred isn’t physically mature until age 7. Pushing them into intense training too early increases the risk of injury, especially if conditioning is rushed or not tailored to the individual horse’s development.

This is one of the main reasons many Thoroughbreds are retired before they even get a chance to reach their full potential.

According to a study by the Royal Veterinary College, University of London,
“70% of injuries recorded among Thoroughbred flat-racing horses on race day were minor and not career-ending.”
https://www.rvc.ac.uk/equine-vet/news/new-study-shows-majority-of-injuries-in-thoroughbred-flat-racing-are-minor.
Yet even these minor injuries can make a horse unprofitable to own—and ultimately disposable.


Our Pledge

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, we understand that these horses are more than athletes. They are sentient beings with unique personalities, potential, and purpose beyond the track. We are committed to helping them recover, rebuild, and rediscover joy—whether that’s in a new home or by becoming partners in healing for the veterans in our care.

Because every horse deserves to be safe, valued, and loved.


Our Vision

 

Our Vision: Healing Together – Horse and Human

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, our vision is to raise greater awareness about the struggles young Thoroughbreds face early in their racing careers—and to build a compassionate, connected community dedicated to preventing these horses from ending up in kill pens, slaughterhouses, or neglectful situations.

While we currently operate as a sanctuary and rehabilitation facility for both injured and non-injured Thoroughbreds, our mission reaches far beyond horse rescue. We believe in mutual healing—and in the profound, restorative connection between humans and horses.

Where We’re Headed: A Place of Healing for Both Horse and Human

Our future Therapy and Healing Programs will bring together two beings that often carry unseen wounds:

  • Horses recovering from the physical and emotional tolls of the racetrack or neglect
     
  • People navigating stress, loss, anxiety, trauma, or life transitions
     

Through guided equine-assisted healing and mindfulness sessions, we envision a space where both horses and humans can rediscover trust, peace, and purpose—side by side.

We have witnessed firsthand the transformation that occurs when a person connects with a rescued horse. There is an unspoken understanding, a shared sense of calm, and a mutual opportunity to heal from within.

Building a Stronger Future

We are expanding our programs by welcoming professionals and credentialed team members who specialize in mental health, trauma-informed care, equine therapy, and holistic wellness. Their expertise helps ensure that every session supports emotional balance, builds confidence, and nurtures both human and equine wellbeing.

This next chapter includes:

  • Development of structured equine-assisted therapy and wellness programs
     
  • Creation of support groups centered around healing, self-growth, and connection through horses
     
  • Facility expansion to accommodate more horses and guests seeking therapeutic experiences
     
  • Partnerships with licensed mental health professionals, equine therapy practitioners, and community wellness leaders
     
  • Outreach and education to raise awareness about Thoroughbred aftercare and the power of human–equine connection
     

Help Us Bring This Vision to Life

We are deeply committed to creating a sanctuary that heals from the inside out—a place where rescued Thoroughbreds and people alike can find peace, purpose, and hope.

With your support, we can continue building a safe, restorative environment that celebrates compassion, connection, and recovery—for every horse, and every heart that finds its way here.


 


Our Approach

 

 

Healing Through Partnership

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, we take a holistic and compassionate approach to rehabilitation—not only for our horses, but for the individuals who come to heal alongside them.

Our upcoming programs will pair each participant with a horse of their choice, allowing them to build a unique and personal bond as they work side-by-side through each stage of healing and growth.

Through this one-on-one partnership, both horse and human evolve together—developing trust, communication, confidence, emotional resilience, and a deeper understanding of care and wellness.

These transformative connections will be supported through sponsorships and donations, ensuring that both horses and participants receive the resources they need to thrive—without financial burden.

Transparency First: How We Accept Donations

Unlike many traditional nonprofits, we emphasize in-kind donations—supplies, materials, and professional services—rather than relying solely on direct financial contributions.

This model fosters transparency and builds trust between our organization and our community. When you donate feed, medical supplies, lumber, fencing materials, or other essentials, you can see exactly how your gift is used and the lives it touches.

We believe that authentic community engagement comes from working hand-in-hand with those who support our mission. Every donated item tells a story—and every act of generosity helps create a better, more hopeful life for both horses and humans.

Why Sponsor Us?

 

Our “Rescue and Recycle” Thoroughbred Program

Restoring Hope for Horse and Human Alike

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, our “Rescue and Recycle” Program is a carefully structured, compassionate process that focuses on the rehabilitation, retraining, and rehoming of Thoroughbreds—while also creating a safe, supportive space for people seeking healing and renewal.

Our goal is simple yet profound: to give both horses and humans a second chance at life filled with purpose, peace, and connection.

Step 1: Intake & Quarantine (14–30+ Days)

Every new arrival begins their journey with a 14–30 day (or longer) quarantine and assessment period. During this time, we:

  • Conduct full veterinary exams and health evaluations
     
  • Assess temperament, behavior, and emotional state
     
  • Document quirks, comfort levels, and possible trauma triggers
     
  • Provide calm, quiet time to decompress and adjust to a stable environment
     

This stage ensures that each horse’s physical and emotional needs are fully understood before beginning any rehabilitation or retraining.

Step 2: Medical Care Comes First

Before any form of training begins, we address each horse’s medical and nutritional needs in partnership with licensed veterinarians and farriers.
Our team ensures:

  • Injuries are properly treated
     
  • Pain management and therapy are prioritized
     
  • Customized feed and supplement plans are developed
     

Health and safety always come before progress.

Step 3: Gentle Retraining — Never Rushed

Once cleared for activity, our horses are introduced to gentle groundwork and consistent, positive routines designed to rebuild trust and confidence.
They learn:

  • Ground manners and calm leading exercises
     
  • Confidence-building desensitization
     
  • Balanced exercise, bodywork, and mindfulness through movement
     

No two horses are the same. Each one sets their own pace — and we listen.

Step 4: Personalized Rehabilitation & Growth Plans

Each Thoroughbred receives an individualized rehabilitation and retraining plan tailored to their physical condition, mental state, and long-term potential.
Our team:

  • Keeps detailed progress records and behavior notes
     
  • Works closely with equine therapists and volunteers
     
  • Reassesses goals regularly to ensure holistic progress
     

This same philosophy extends to the people who join our community. Just like the horses, every person heals in their own time — and we meet them where they are.

Step 5: Next Steps — Adoption or Sanctuary Partnership

Once a horse has completed rehabilitation, we determine their best path forward:

  • Adoption: for horses ready to begin new lives with loving families.
     
  • Sanctuary Partner Program: for horses better suited to ongoing care or therapy work within our facility.
     

Each outcome is guided by the horse’s wellbeing, personality, and comfort.

Step 6: Healing Through Connection – Our Support Circles

Our evolving Therapy and Support Circles offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for individuals seeking healing, community, and personal growth through equine connection.

Participants are matched with a horse whose temperament aligns with their needs. Together, they build confidence, compassion, and communication skills through structured interaction and mindful horsemanship.

Our focus is on creating:

  • Emotional healing through equine-assisted activities
     
  • Peer support groups centered on growth, trust, and wellbeing
     
  • Opportunities for participants to gain purpose through caregiving, teamwork, and self-discovery
     

This is a sanctuary for anyone who needs a fresh start, emotional support, or a reminder of life’s quiet beauty.

Step 7: Continuing Care & Community Support

Our commitment doesn’t end with adoption or program completion. Enchanted Thoroughbreds remains a lasting source of support. We provide:

  • Guidance on care, training, and wellness
     
  • Safe boarding options for program horses
     
  • Ongoing check-ins and community gatherings to encourage lasting connection
     

Healing is a lifelong journey — and no one walks it alone here.

Be Part of the Legacy

Your donations of supplies, sponsorships, and professional services make these programs possible.
Every bale of hay, every halter, every hour volunteered directly supports the healing of both horse and human.

Together, we can rescue, restore, and recycle hope — creating new beginnings for every life that finds its way to Enchanted Thoroughbreds.

 



Every Gift Helps a Horse Heal

At Enchanted Thoroughbreds, every donation directly supports the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of our horses. We welcome in-kind donations, direct payments to our trusted providers, and monetary gifts.

Farm & Facility Equipment

  • Fence & cattle panels
     
  • T-posts, lumber, roofing supplies
     
  • Hay rings, feeders, and feed barrels
     
  • Stall bags, storage bins, and rubber mats
     
  • Sand or arena footing
     

Horse Care & Medical Supplies

  • Veterinary and first-aid supplies
     
  • Supplements and therapy wraps
     
  • Blankets, fly sheets, and grooming items
     
  • Saddles, halters, and lead ropes
     
  • Stall shavings, tarps, and cleaning tools
     

Professional Services & Direct Payments

  • Veterinary care (Cross Timbers Equine, Outlaw Equine)
     
  •  feed store bills (101 Feed Store, Bowie, TX)
     
  • Monetary donations (acknowledgment letters provided)


 Acknowledgment for Tax Purposes
Enchanted Thoroughbreds Rescue & Sanctuary is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations of physical items, or monetary contributions may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.  
 


Support Enchanted Thoroughbred's

Help us protect thoroughbreds and all other horses for a better, brighter, healthier, loving future and make a difference by making a donation today.


https://www.venmo.com/u/Enchanted-Thoroughbreds

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Thank You For Your Support!

Enchanted Thoroughbreds

Hildreth Pool Rd Bowie, Texas, United States

Main- 817-717-0898 enchantedthoroughbreds@gmail.com Bowie, TX Location Animal Welfare/Medical Director-Victoria Ellen K. Hilton President -Charles M. Glenn- 913-340-2267 Lemitar, NM Location Rob Lewis- 505-975-1126

Hours

Open today

07:00 am – 07:00 pm

facility visits are by appointment only

Please complete Forms and Waiver upon arrival

Copyright © 2026 Enchanted Thoroughbreds - All Rights Reserved.


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