As a voice for OTTBs, we promise a mutual journey of self-discovery for all who embrace these brave, loyal and adaptable horses. We are committed to our community, including at-risk youth and those individuals also trying to find a purpose in life.
We believe cultivating the trust of OTTBs enlightens our own behavior and communication skills. Patience, understanding and thoughtful actions are lessons mutually acquired through these human-horse connections. Many who grace the barn aisles of Hidden Acres have had life changing experiences through the scientifically proven human/horse connection.
Come find your new purpose and improve your physical and mental health wellbeing while having fun!!
OTTBs race as early as two and complete their careers normally before the age of seven. As horses can live up to 30 years or more, these young athletes face an uncertain and potentially bleak future without the intervention of aftercare organizations such as ours.
When their racing days are over, they find themselves struggling to understand their new role – they need a purpose. This is where aftercare and horse rescue come in. We focus on retraining these athletes for a second career, whether it be show jumping, eventing, barrels or simply enjoying a long leisurely trail ride.
Since receiving 501(c)3 status and Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance (TAA) accreditation we have worked tirelessly to build a program that gives proper care for these athletes while serving the needs of our surrounding communities.
The physical and mental health benefits that come from the human/horse connection are life changing. So we've put renewed focus on our youth and the socially challenged to ensure our horses serve the community that supports them.
Throughout the journey the volunteers (kids, parents, veterans, first responders, families) who assist us daily with care and feeding of these athletes experience the myriad of health benefits to come from the human/horse connection.
For centuries it’s been known that horses can instill a sense of purpose, calm, confidence, and relieve stress in ways human cannot We believe cultivating the trust of OTTBs enlightens our own behavior and communication skills.
Patience, understanding and thoughtful actions are lessons mutually acquired through these human-horse connections.
About Hidden Acres
Hidden Acres Rescue for Thoroughbreds (HART) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization founded to promote the physical and emotional healing and well-being of thoroughbreds that are retiring from the racetrack.
We do this by rehabilitating horses and providing them the skills, confidence, and nurturing they need for a successful and smooth transition into their second careers and forever families.
We do all this while raising awareness on the difficult fates these horses face after the track.
To date, Hidden Acres has rescued and placed more than 250 horses in happy, healthy homes
OUR VISION
A world that honors humans’ & horses’ inherent value
OUR MISSION
Giving people purpose while providing horses a second chance at life.
OUR VALUES
Passion
Integrity
Trust
Compassion
Relationships
Our Passion is working with horses and humans so that they can help each other reach their full potential and face the stress and trauma that come with daily living.
Our ability to execute our Mission is through the power of strong, Compassionate Relationships based on Integrity and Trust.
Beyond the Finish Line: Saving Retired Racehorses
Every day, thousands of dogs and cats are rescued from local shelters, giving them a second chance at life. Adopting household pets is incredibly rewarding and is widely supported by celebrities, humane societies, and animal shelters across the United States.
But did you know that household pets aren't the only animals in need of rescue?
Every year, on the first Saturday in May, the Kentucky Derby captivates millions as the most popular thoroughbred horse race in the world. Maybe you’ve watched the race or attended a local Kentucky Derby party—it’s a lot of fun! However, behind the glamor of thoroughbred racing, there’s a pressing issue that often goes unnoticed.
A thoroughbred’s racing career typically ends around the age of 6 to 8, yet these horses can live up to 25 to 28 years. After their racing days are over, what happens to them? Here are the common fates:
The lucky ones are cared for by their owners.
Successful racers are used for breeding.
Some are sold to trainers or riding stables.
Sadly, many face abuse or neglect.
Hidden Acres is dedicated to preventing the tragic fate that befalls many retired racehorses. We provide new beginnings and second careers for these majestic animals, highlighting their versatility and raising awareness within the community.
We work hand-in-hand with our partners in the horse racing industry to provide a safe place for former racehorses to decompress, rehabilitate, and retrain for new careers. While a Thoroughbred’s racing career is often short, these young and athletic horses have plenty more to offer the world.
Local Partners
Along with our Thoroughbred rescue mission, we also work with local officials and take in multiple equines (horses and donkeys) from across Brevard County that have been abused or neglected.
When an animal is taken away or surrendered to the county, they are brought to Hidden Acres and placed into a mandatory 30-day quarantine. This is done for the protection of the other horses on the property. They are vetted, observed daily, and their special needs are tended to.
After the quarantine is lifted and court proceedings are decided, they merge with the Hidden Acres herd family. From there, they continue rehabilitating their physical and emotional scars until it is time for them to move to their new family's home.
But we can’t do it alone. Rescuing and rehabilitating these horses takes immense time and resources.
Curious to learn more about how you can help or adopt one of these incredible animals? Tap the button below to discover the many ways you can be part of giving these wonderful creatures the second chance they deserve!