Iron Range Equine Sanctuary is operated by a small, dedicated team committed to providing consistent, compassionate care every single day. Our care team includes:

• Daily Care + Management:
  The sanctuary is run hands-on by our founder, who provides all feeding, grooming, stall and pasture care, medical monitoring, rehabilitation routines, and daily interaction with each animal. This ensures our residents have a familiar, steady presence they can trust.

• Veterinary Partners:
  We work closely with licensed veterinarians who provide routine and emergency medical care, wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostics, and treatment plans tailored to each horse’s needs.

• Farrier:
  A professional farrier visits routinely to maintain hoof health. Many of our residents require corrective, therapeutic, or specialized trims to support mobility and comfort.

• Equine Dental Specialists:
  Several of our equines require routine dental floats, evaluation, or care adjustments to ensure they can comfortably eat and maintain proper nutrition.

• Feed & Nutrition Support:
  Our care plans are built around the needs of senior horses, metabolic horses, chronic respiratory cases, and rehabilitation cases. Feed programs are reviewed with veterinary guidance to ensure the best outcomes.

While we are not volunteer-run, and we do not currently have on-site volunteer positions, every resident here is cared for with individualized attention and consistency — something that is especially important for animals recovering from trauma, neglect, or chronic health conditions.

Our team may be small, but it is incredibly hands-on, experienced, and deeply committed to the wellbeing of every animal who calls this sanctuary home.

We understand that many people would love to come meet the horses in person, and we truly appreciate the care and interest behind those requests. We also know that some sanctuaries are structured to welcome visitors, and we respect the work they do.
At Iron Range Equine Sanctuary, we have made the decision to remain private, and we want to be transparent about why:

• Many of our horses are in active rehabilitation.
  Some are recovering from trauma, neglect, starvation, chronic illness, or respiratory conditions. Their health and stability depend on a quiet, predictable environment. Sudden changes in activity or new people can cause stress that sets back their progress.

• We are a small, hands-on care team.
  We do not have staff available to safely supervise or facilitate visits. Every day is dedicated to feeding, medical care, cleaning, farrier and vet coordination, and monitoring the herd. Opening to visitors would require staffing we currently do not have — and we will never compromise care to make something “fit.”

• Not all horses are comfortable with unfamiliar people.
  Some residents enjoy gentle interaction, while others come from backgrounds that make new interactions overwhelming. Limiting unexpected changes helps them feel secure and safe.

• Safety matters — for both horses and humans.
  Even the gentlest horse can have triggers due to pain, past trauma, or medical conditions. Maintaining a calm, controlled environment protects everyone involved.

Our priority is always the wellbeing of the animals who call this sanctuary home. By remaining private, we are able to provide the peace, routine, and stability that allow them to heal and thrive.

We know that not being able to visit can be disappointing, and we appreciate your understanding more than words can say.
If you'd like to stay connected, feel free to follow us on social media, where we share regular updates, photos, stories, and progress of the animals in our care.

Currently, we do not offer a volunteer program due to our residents’ care needs and our private facility structure. As we grow and are able to provide supervised, structured volunteer roles, we will share that update with our community.

We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Our operations are funded entirely by donations, sponsorships, grant support, and fundraising efforts. Every contribution directly supports feed, vet care, farrier care, shelter, and rehabilitation.

Our EIN: 33-1849380

When possible, yes. However, our ability to take in urgent cases depends on available space, quarantine resources, and funding. We work closely with veterinarians, law enforcement, and other rescues to ensure animals receive appropriate care even if we are unable to intake directly.