HOOF-N-HEARTS OF ILLINOIS, N.F.P.
A FOOD BANK FOR HORSES
Our Mission
     Our mission is to maintain the health of horses and preserve the bond between human and horse.  When an owner has lost a job or faces serious illness, we can help the owner keep his horse in good health. We help the owner avoid losing his horse for a period of time until circumstances improve or the owner has been able to make other arrangements for the care of his horse.
Providing: *Feed * Hay * Bedding

So   "Why should I help someone else keep their horse?"

Do you love horses?  Do you know anyone who owns a horse?  Do you know anyone who's lost their job or has an illness that has put a financial drain on them?  Have you had a horse you've had to let go because of a financial burden?  Do you now own a horse?

When I gave up my horse due to financial reasons, I hurt so bad I couldn't bring myself to go see her.  I felt I had abandoned her, I broke the bond, or had I?    A year later, I returned to find her so underweight, I cried & cried & cried.  I took feed to her, but they didn't feed it to her.  I tried calling the owner, but was avoided.  Finally, after my sister notified the Sheriff's dept., I received a call.  The owner said the horse was ill and the owner was also going through hard times.    Shortly thereafter, the owner moved.  I have not seen my horse since and I don't know what has happened to her.   I believe the owner cared for the horse, it just got overwhelming.

I told myself that if I could help someone feed their horse through hard times, I may save a horse from abuse, neglect or abandonment.  Horses are large animals and require health care, daily maintenance, a home and someone to love them.  When you own a horse, you build a relationship with  a bond that stays with you an awfully long time.  When you lose the means to keep the horse and give him up, it's like losing a loved one.

Many rescues are full, many don't take healthy horses and if they do, they will sell them to recoup costs incurred.  We are dedicated to keeping the bond between horse and owner.