Fresh Start Horse Rescue, Inc., of Dolores, CO, has been rescuing horses since 2005, and incorporated as a Colorado nonprofit in September, 2007. Our mission is to provide a fresh start for all breeds of horses, whether abused, neglected, or simply unwanted. We rescue and care for them, and are looking for loving homes where they will have a future. Unadoptable horses we provide with a permanent home ourselves, with the help of sponsors.

We’re not here to compete with other rescues or anyone else. We aim for a spirit of cooperation and what we want most of all is to help horses and people who need help with their horses. To that end we have a website, publish a newsletter and are in the process of filing for our 501(c)(3).

Currently we have 25 horses in our care, most of which belong to the Ryans personally because they were acquired before the incorporation, and not all are up for adoption.

The horses we adopt out have generally been restored to health and re-accustomed to people. Our goal for most is that they become child-friendly trail horses.  The vast majority of food, shelter and medical care has come from our own pockets. We give our own shots, wormer, wound care and float our own teeth with the help of a wonderful volunteer who keeps everybody’s feet sound for us.

Adoption fees generally range from $600 to $1500 but depend on the individual horse and the adopter, and the fees can sometimes fall outside this range. The Ryans will attempt to recover what we put into the horse with the remainder of the fee going into Fresh Start.

Ideally, potential adoptive owners will visit the farm three times to establish that they are committed to the horse’s welfare. Adoptive owners get an adoption certificate and must sign a statement of commitment to provide proper food, shelter, vet care and respect for their horse.

We will not adopt out a horse for a fee so low that the adopter can just take it to the sale barn hoping for a profit. We will not adopt out an animal to someone who does not show respect for the horses -- at any price.

25 horses is a lot to care for and clean up after, and we can always use volunteers. Volunteering is a great way to get to know the horses. We offer horseback riding with a signed waiver.

If you would like to volunteer or are interested in adoption, e-mail us or contact us directly.