Sanctuary Horses
Meet the horses who will be living out their days with us.
Our sanctuary provides loving pastures for horses who will spend the rest of their days with us. For each horse, we provide food, medical, and farrier care costing about $150 per month. We need your help! You can choose a horse to sponsor or donate directly to the rescue. Any amount is appreciated!
$25/month- Special Hearts Contributor- partial sponsorship
$75/month- Half Annual Contributor- For a full year we will provide you with a photo of the horse you sponsored and an annual update on how your financial gift helped out.
$150/month- Annual Contributor- For a full year of support you will receive everything listed above plus a Happy Tails t-shirt or hat
Please consider sponsoring! If you would like to sponsor a specific horse, please click on the text below their picture to be directed to out sponsorship form! To donate use the links below for our PayPal or Venmo! You can also send a check to Happy Tails Have 14898 Elk Creek Rd, Piedmont, SD 57769
Meet Doc-Sponsored Monthly
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Quarter Horse Mare | Age: Late 20s
Doc is a distinguished Quarter Horse mare who has found her forever soft landing here at our sanctuary. As a senior in her late 20s, she has entered a season of life that requires a little extra "TLC" to keep her happy and healthy.
Due to the natural aging process, Doc has lost most of her teeth, meaning she can no longer graze or eat standard hay like the rest of the herd. To keep her at an ideal weight and feeling her best, she receives a specialized senior mash multiple times a day.
Special Requests
Doc would like Purina Senior feed and Muggli grain!
Meet Xena
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Red Roan QH Mare | Age: late teens
Xena is a stunning Red Roan mare who has been a cherished member of the Happy Tails family since she arrived from the reservation in 2017. While Xena was not born blind, we believe she lost her sight following a traumatic "pull-back" accident involving a halter prior to her rescue.
Understandably, navigating the world in darkness means Xena carries some trust issues. She is cautious with new people and surroundings, but for those who take the time to earn her confidence, the reward is a deeply loyal and friendly companion.
Meet Hanna
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident & Rescue Mascot | Breed: Shire/Thoroughbred Cross | Age: 20s
Hanna is a magnificent Draft cross who embodies the spirit of our mission. When she first arrived at Happy Tails, she was struggling with severe weight issues, which led to painful arthritis and systemic inflammation. Today, she is a testament to the power of proper management and dedicated care.
Hanna came to us with a lifetime promise: her previous owners entrusted her to Happy Tails with the vow that this would be her forever home. It is a promise we are honored to keep every single day.
Meet Coal- Sponsored Monthly
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Quarter Horse Mare | Age: Late 20s
Coal is far more than just a resident at Happy Tails—she is the inspiration and the heartbeat behind why this rescue exists. A Quarter Horse mare in her late 20s, Coal was originally part of a breeding program at CoDreLea Farm.
She and her daughter, Carbon, were sold and ended up being abused. Thankfully, their paths stayed connected with our founder, Klara, who stepped in to rescue them both from their ordeal. It was through the journey of saving Coal and Carbon that the vision for our rescue was born.
Special Requests
Coal would like Purina Senior Feed and GastroElm!
Meet Shaman-Sponsored by Guardian Angels!
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Black Arabian Gelding | Age: Late 20s
Shaman is a striking black Arabian gelding with a soul as deep as his coat. Now in his late 20s, Shaman has spent much of his life in service to others, having been professionally trained as an equine therapist in an equine-assisted learning program. His intuitive nature and steady presence have helped many people find their way, and he remains a calm, grounding force at our sanctuary.
As a senior, Shaman requires specialized care to stay in peak condition. Due to his age, he has lost most of his teeth, making it impossible for him to chew hay or tough pasture grass. To accommodate this, he enjoys a specialized soak-feed diet that provides all the nutrition he needs in a format that is easy for him to eat.
Special Requests
Shaman would like Purina Senior Feed, Muggli Grain, and fly boots!
Meet Montana
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Appaloosa Mare | Age: 20s
Montana is a beautiful Appaloosa mare with a personality that is as spotted and unique as her coat. Now in her 20s, she has found her forever soft landing here as a permanent sanctuary resident.
While she is incredibly friendly once you are by her side, Montana retains a bit of an independent, "standoffish" streak—she believes that if you want her company, you should be prepared to work for it! She can be a bit of a challenge to catch in the pasture, but there is one very reliable way to her heart: treats.
Special Requests
Montana would love a kind human to sponsor her monthly!
Meet Carbon
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Grade Quarter Horse | Age: Late Teens
Carbon is a stunning, solid black mare whose story is woven into the very fabric of this rescue. Along with her mother, Coal, Carbon was rescued by our founder, Klara, from an abusive situation. Their rescue was the defining moment that led to the creation of Happy Tails Haven—ensuring that neither of them, nor horses like them, would ever have to face the fear of a sale barn.
While Carbon is halter-trained, she has never been trained under saddle. Because of her past, she carries a natural caution, but she is a beautiful example of how patience can heal. Once she feels safe and gets to know you, she warms up beautifully, revealing a gentle and sweet nature
Special Requests
Carbon would like donations for hay and a kind human to sponsor her monthly!
Meet Stormi
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Quarter Horse | Age: Teens
Stormi is a beautiful Quarter Horse mare who lives life on her own terms. While she is currently unhandled, she is far from uninterested—she is incredibly curious about the humans around her and is often the first to watch our every move.
Though she remains "shy to touch" and values her personal space, Stormi is a social butterfly in her own way. She absolutely loves being talked to and will listen intently to your stories, especially if you happen to have a few peppermint treats to share!
Special Requests
Stormi would like donations for hay and a kind human to sponsor her monthly!
Meet Blondie
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Palomino Quarter Horse | Age: Late Twenties
Blondie is a stunning Palomino mare whose golden coat matches her sweet personality. Her journey to Happy Tails Haven is a testament to the power of a caring community; after her original owner moved away, she was kindly surrendered by thoughtful neighbors who wanted to ensure she received the specialized care she deserves.
Now in her late twenties, Blondie lives with chronic arthritis and a stifle injury. While these conditions mean she can no longer be ridden, she is living her best life as a sanctuary resident. To keep her comfortable and "feeling golden," she receives daily joint supplement and a tailored wellness plan.
Special Requests
Blondie would like a sponsorship, donations for hay and SmartPak Joint Supplement!
Meet Amy
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Appaloosa Pony | Age: 20s
Amy is a spirited Appaloosa pony who joined the Happy Tails Haven family when her previous owners moved and were unable to take her along. Now in her twenties, Amy is navigating a world of fading light; she is blind, though she can still perceive some faint shadows and movement.
Because she relies so heavily on her hearing, Amy has a bit of a "standoffish" reputation if she’s caught by surprise. She is a true lady who appreciates her personal space—unless you remember your manners! Once you announce your presence with a soft word, she lets her guard down and enjoys the company of her human friends.
Special Requests
Amy would like a sponsorship and donations for hay!
Meet Kit-Kat
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Welsh Pony | Age: Late 20s
Kit-Kat is a "spunky little fellow" with a massive heart and an even bigger legacy. After a distinguished career at the Suncatcher Therapeutic Riding Academy, this vibrant Welsh pony officially retired to Happy Tails Haven. For years, Kit-Kat served as a patient teacher and companion, providing specialized riding lessons to children with physical and mental disabilities.
Now in his late twenties, Kit-Kat is enjoying a well-earned retirement. While he spends most of his days relaxing, he hasn't completely stepped out of the spotlight—his gentle nature and steady stride make him a beloved star at our community events, where he still enjoys giving pony rides to children.
Special Requests
Kit-Kat would like a sponsorship and donations for hay!
Meet Floyd & Rosie
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Residents | Breed: Shetland Ponies | Age: Late 20s
Floyd and Rosie are proof that the best things come in small, spirited packages! Now in their late twenties, these two Shetland ponies were rescued from abusive situations and have found their "forever soft landing" at Happy Tails Haven. Despite their difficult beginnings, they have blossomed into the most beloved residents of our sanctuary, capturing the hearts of every volunteer and guest they meet.
With big personalities that far outshine their small stature, Floyd and Rosie are inseparable companions who bring a sense of joy and whimsy to the farm.
Special Requests
Floyd and Rosie would like Purina Senior Grain and donations for Hay or sponsors!
Meet Lori
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Quarter Horse | Age: Teens
Lori is a resilient Quarter Horse mare who joined our sanctuary family in 2023. When she first arrived, she was quite thin and in need of some extra love, but her transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. Today, she is a glowing example of how quality nutrition and a peaceful environment can restore a horse's spirit and health.
Now in her teens, Lori is completely blind, which means she experiences the world through sound and touch. Because she can’t see who is approaching, she can be a little nervous around new people, but she rewards patience with a deep, quiet trust once she recognizes a friendly voice.
Special Requests
Lori would like a sponsor and donations for hay!
Meet Missy
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Arabian Mare | Age: mid twenties
Missy is a refined Arabian mare who proves that age is just a number when you have a curious spirit. As the devoted "pasture buddy" to Lori, Missy provides a sense of security and companionship that is truly heartwarming to witness.
Missy has Cushing’s Disease, a common condition in senior horses. To keep her metabolic health in check and her spirits high, she receives a daily dose of Prascend, which allows her to enjoy her retirement years comfortably and vibrantly.
Special Requests
Missy would like Purina Senior Feed and a sponsor!
Meet Jenna
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Miniature Donkey | Age: Late 20s
Jenna is a charming miniature donkey who brings a world of personality to the sanctuary. She arrived at Happy Tails Haven bonded to a goat named Nanabelle. Together, they represent the unique and beautiful friendships that blossom in a rescue environment. Her other best friend is Millie the Donkey!
Now in her late twenties, Jenna is quite possibly the friendliest little donkey you will ever meet. She is a social butterfly who loves to be in the middle of whatever is happening at the farm.
Special Requests
Jenna would like stay up fly boots, a sponsor and timothy pellets!
Meet Millie
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Miniature Donkey | Age: Teens
Millie is the newest member of our donkey family, arriving all the way from Little Hooves Rescue in eastern South Dakota. She joined us with a very special mission: to be the "bestie" that our senior donkey, Jenna, truly needed.
When Jenna moved into the barn to receive a specialized senior diet, she began to feel a bit lonely. We knew we needed a companion with just the right temperament to match Jenna’s sweet soul—and Millie was the perfect fit. From the very first moment they met, it was an instant connection; today, they are literally inseparable.
Special Requests
Millie would like stay up fly boots, a sponsor and timothy pellets!
Meet Angel-In Foster
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Arabian mare | Age: Late twenties
Angel came to the rescue with Alex. She was abandoned in a cow pasture and was taken home by Alex’s former owner who contacted the rescue. Angel has a small hernia on her left side. She hasn’t been ridden since this injury occurred but it does not affect her!
Meet Hankie-In Foster
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Quarter Horse mare | Age: Late twenties
Hankie is the sweetest mare who has had a rough go before coming to us. She is SMART and was a proven cutting horse in her prime, she knows her stuff! However, we received her through a neglect/starvation seizure over a year ago. We have rehabbed her through a severe case of founder/laminitis, and a handful of secondary medical issues. Because of this we currently have her at a boarding facility. In foster
She was light riding sound and now seems to have some SI pain we are trying to relieve. She currently has 2 meds she takes daily. Gabapentin for the short term, Equioxx for the long term.
Meet Red
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Red Roan Quarter Horse gelding | Age: Mid-20s
Red is a handsome Red Roan gelding whose stunning coat is matched only by his "heart of gold." While he is well-versed in ground manners and is halter trained, Red never trained to be a riding horse. Instead, he has spent his life being a professional companion—a role he excels at thanks to his incredibly lovable and easy-going personality.
Because Red has metabolic issues that require a strictly controlled environment and specialized monitoring, he has officially become a permanent resident of our sanctuary.
Special Requests
Red would like a sponsor and donations for hay!
Meet Chili
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Sorrel Quarter Horse Mare | Age: Mid-teens
Chili arrived at Happy Tails Haven in the fall of 2024 after her owner noticed she was running into the fences of her pasture and having vision issues. After she arrived, she went to the vet so we could figure out why she was having trouble with her vision, if there was any way of reversing it, and if she could be adopted. Sadly, after an extensive eye and vision exam, it was determined that Chili had developed equine uveitis and that it couldn't be cured. Chili joined the sanctuary horses after that vet visit and is now best friends with Xena, who is also blind and helps Chili navigate her surroundings as her “seeing-eye horse.”
Special Requests
Chili would like cool calories, a sponsor and donations for hay!
Meet Forest
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Sorrel Quarter Horse Gelding | Age: 30
Forest is a 30 year old sorrel quarter horse gelding who came from Wyoming with his companions Newt and Steve. When Forest was younger he used to pack in the woods with his previous owners during elk hunting season. Forest's owners retired and wanted to travel to see family, so he came to Happy Tails Haven to live out the rest of his days. Forest is a very friendly old man who loves treats and will be on a special diet, like Doc and Shaman, to put on some weight. Forest also loves carrots and apples!
Special Requests
Forest would like Purina Senior feed, alfalfa cubes and a sponsor!
Meet Newt
Status: Permanent Sanctuary Resident | Breed: Paint Gelding | Age: 31
Newt is a 31 year old paint gelding who came from Wyoming with his companions Forest and Steve. When Newt was younger he used to pack in the woods with his previous owners during elk hunting season. Newt's owners retired and wanted to travel to see family, so he came to Happy Tails Haven to live out the rest of his days. Newt is a very friendly old man who has a lot of energy left and loves treats and will be on a special diet, like Doc and Shaman, to put on some weight. Newt also loves carrots and apples!
Special Requests
Newt would like Purina Senior feed, alfalfa cubes and a sponsor!