Mitchell Farm is a 501c (3) non-profit organization, founded in 2004 with a vision – A Dignified Life for All Equines. The horses retired to Mitchell Farm come from all areas of the country, all breeds, and backgrounds. Either advanced age or injury has caused an end to the useful, athletic lives of these animals, however they are healthy enough to live comfortably for many years to come, spending their golden years as they should – Just Being Horses. High standards of care and longevity have earned Mitchell Farm an impeccable reputation as well as accreditation by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. With so much need in the world, animal welfare organizations often get overlooked. Horses are too often viewed as nothing more than service animals. This begins the downward spiral in their quality of life. Unwanted horses are stressing already over-burdened rescue organizations. Mitchell Farm plays a critical role in the equine welfare system by providing permanent sanctuary for those who are older or unrideable. This allows rescue organizations to focus on those horses that are sound enough for a second, or even third, career. Our equines are lovingly cared for by two full time, two part time staff and thirty volunteers. Mitchell Farm provides for the on-going expense of their full care including veterinary, farrier, feed and stabling. The overriding accomplishment each year is raising the funds necessary for top level care. This is achieved with an annual appeal to our dedicated donor base, fundraising events, and grants from several foundations. In addition to the everyday care of horses, it is also the mission of Mitchell Farm to raise awareness and offer educational opportunities to the public on equine welfare, care, and management. In the Spring of 2019, Mitchell Farm requested and received a Connecticut Gubernatorial Proclamation naming the fourth week in May as the official week of recognition for the Older and Retired Horses of Connecticut. The week-long observance aims to unify equine retirement programs throughout the state and to raise awareness for long-term care of veteran horses. We at Mitchell Farm believe that all horses deserve dignity in their older, less useful years. Our hope is to inspire others to provide the same care for the older horses in their lives.
