Equine Initiative Grand Opening

Yavapai Humane Society (YHS) is holding a Grand Opening event for its new equine program on June 4, 2016. The event will be held at YHS’ equine property at 3731 N Road 1 W in Chino Valley. The event takes place from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. It features a ribbon cutting ceremony with local officials (at 1:30 p.m.) as well as interactive stations and games explaining the purpose of the new equine rescue, rehabilitation and adoption program. The community is invited to attend the free event; no RSVP is required. While Yavapai Humane Society has been rescuing cats and dogs for 44 years, it recently decided to include equines in its mission to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of animals. YHS purchased the 7.3-acre Chino Valley property in December 2014 and its volunteers and supporting contractors have been putting extensive work into updating the property, making it suitable for operations. The YHS’ Equine Program environment is centered on an innovative equine enrichment approach referred to as a “track system.” Rather than using traditional stalls, this pioneering design spreads resources (food, water, open shelter areas, etc.) along a track, encouraging movement and enabling group housing. Director of YHS’ Equine Initiative, Nina Ekholm Fry, says the program helps meet the basic needs of horses while they are receiving rehabilitation and training. YHS will continue work on the property up to the Grand Opening and program launch. Those who would like to donate to the new program can contribute at www.yavapaihumane.org/equines.