Hooves of Hope Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue
Hooves of Hope
Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue
hoovesofhoperescue@outlook.com
Together, we lead the way in animal rescue and youth empowerment, ensuring every horse and donkey finds a safe haven while fostering healing in our community.
Broken Animals Healing Broken People
Our Mission Matters
Mission Statement
At Hooves of Hope Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue, we are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing lifelong sanctuary for horses, donkeys, and other animals in need. Rooted in the heart of Belledune, New Brunswick at Broken Saddle Riding, our mission extends beyond rescue — we strive to empower youth and strengthen communities through hands-on programs that foster compassion, confidence, and connection. In collaboration with Mind at Peace Centre Mieux Etre, we offer equine-assisted learning and psychotherapy that nurture emotional healing, resilience, and mental well-being. Together, we believe in the power of broken animals healing broken people.
Vision Statement
Our vision is to create a sanctuary where animals and people heal side by side — a place of peace, purpose, and possibility. Through animal rescue, youth empowerment, and therapeutic experiences, we envision a community where every individual discovers their inner strength, every rescued animal finds safety and love, and together they inspire hope for a more compassionate world.
We aspire to grow into a national model of holistic healing and education, offering retreats, equine-assisted programs, and wellness outreach that connect hearts, restore balance, and build brighter futures
Empower
Growth
About Me, Sheri
Our journey began with pain, resilience, and hope.
When my daughter experienced trauma in high school, navigating the school system — even with my background in healthcare — felt overwhelming. Finding the right support wasn’t easy, but with the guidance of a compassionate therapist and the quiet strength of our horses, healing slowly began.
The horses became more than companions — they were healers. Through their presence, patience, and unconditional trust, we witnessed incredible transformation. That experience inspired the creation of Hooves of Hope, built on the belief that just as animals can heal, so can people.
Today, our mission continues: broken animals healing broken people — offering a place of safety, growth, and hope for both.
Education
2024-present
Equine Diploma and
Certificate in Equine Business Management
University of Guelph
I am currently pursuing an Equine Diploma and a Certificate in Equine Business Management through the University of Guelph, deepening my knowledge of horse care, management, and equine industry practices.
These programs provide a comprehensive understanding of equine health, behavior, nutrition, and training, while also developing skills in business operations, financial management, and leadership within the equine sector.
This education allows me to combine my hands-on experience with professional expertise to better care for animals, manage programs, and create sustainable, high-quality equine initiatives.
2024
Equine First Aid International
I am an Equine First Aid Instructor, certified by Equine First Aid International, empowering others with the knowledge and skills to respond confidently to equine health and safety situations. Through hands-on training, I teach participants how to recognize signs of injury or illness, provide emergency care, and promote the overall well-being of horses.
2023
Dreamwinds
Equine Assisted Learning Center
As a certified Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) Facilitator through Dreamwinds, I guide individuals and groups in building self-awareness, communication skills, confidence, and emotional resilience through hands-on, experiential activities with horses.
Using the gentle presence and feedback of these sensitive animals, I create a safe and supportive environment where participants can explore personal growth, leadership, and team dynamics.
Each session is designed to foster connection, reflection, and healing, helping both youth and adults discover new insights about themselves and others.
2023
Camelid Dynamics
Camelidynamics by Marty McGee Bennett
Camelidynamics is a science-based, humane approach to understanding, handling, and training llamas and alpacas, developed by Marty McGee Bennett in California. This method combines principles of animal behavior, body language, balance, and pressure-and-release techniques to create calm, cooperative relationships between camelids and their handlers.
The philosophy behind Camelid dynamics emphasizes trust over control—teaching humans to communicate clearly and respectfully through posture, movement, and timing. Instead of restraint or force, handlers learn to read the animal’s cues, reduce fear, and promote confidence during routine care such as haltering, leading, and medical procedures.
Used worldwide, Camelid dynamics improves welfare, safety, and training outcomes for both animals and people. It’s especially valued in rescue, sanctuary, and therapy settings, where stress-free handling and emotional well-being are essential.
2001-2006
BScN
University of Fredericton
2023 & 2025
CAMA
Canadian Association of Medical Aesthetics
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) from the University of New Brunswick (UNB) and am a Registered Nurse (RN) with experience in critical care and leadership roles, including Nursing Supervisor.
My professional background in healthcare has strengthened my skills in compassionate care, problem-solving, and team leadership, which I bring to my work with animals and as an Equine-Assisted Learning facilitator.
As a Medical Nurse Injector certified through the Canadian Association of Medi-Aesthetics (CAMA), I specialize in providing safe, evidence-based aesthetic treatments.
This training equips me to enhance natural features, promote skin health, and support clients in achieving their wellness and aesthetic goals while adhering to the highest standards of medical safety and ethical practice.
My background in nursing, critical care, and leadership ensures that every procedure is performed with precision, care, and professional expertise.
Our Team.
Our team is made up of a diverse group of professionals, contributing their unique strengths and expertise to the farm. Together, we work collaboratively to enhance our operations and ensure highest quality results. With our multidisciplinary approach, we are to innovation and excellence in everything we do.
Professionalism
At Hooves of Hope Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue, healing begins through connection. Inspired by our own journey of recovery and resilience, we help both animals and people find strength, trust, and hope. Guided by integrity, confidentiality, understanding, compassion, and trust, we create a safe space where broken animals heal broken people — one hoofprint at a time.
Integrity
Integrity — building trust through honesty, compassion, and respect.
Trust
Trust — building lasting bonds through consistency, kindness, and connection.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality — providing a safe and private space for healing.
Understanding
Understanding — meeting every individual, human or animal, with empathy and care.
Compassion
Compassion — showing genuine care and kindness in every interaction, ensuring all who come to us feel valued and supported.
Partner
Mind at Peace Centre Mieux Etre
Co-owners
Marie-Pierre and Eve have been working in the field of mental health as a social worker and psychologist since 2005. They founded the Mind at Peace Center in 2018 using an interdisciplinary approach.
At the time, they were looking to work with professionals from different disciplines to meet the multiple needs of their clients. That being said, the Center aims to offer professional services in one place for people who seek wellness..
copywrite Mind at Peace
Partner
ReelTime Animal Rescue
Passion + Experience
At ReelTime Animal Rescue, we understand the power of images and messaging to rally people around a cause. We're dedicated to providing multiple platforms for rescue organizations to get the word out about what they do and what they need.
Our strength lies in our diverse professional experience in video production, livestreaming, equipment development and installation, website and graphic design, event planning and production, and branding and marketing. We're dedicated to serving as a megaphone for the network of rescue organizations around the world, and to educate about this important work.
Copyrights of ReelTime Animal Rescue
Krista Embry
Krista Embry, Founder of ReelTime Animal Rescue and Co-Founder of StreamTime Live, combines a successful career in media with a lifelong passion for animals.
An entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and celebrity makeup artist, Krista has spent over 20 years working with top celebrities, athletes, and leaders, including a U.S. President and Vice President. Her work through Impact Your Image Inc. reflects her experience both in front of and behind the camera.
Inspired by her lifelong passion for animals, Krista founded ReelTime Animal Rescue to highlight the journeys of homeless and abused animals, fostering awareness and action within global communities. She also co-founded StreamTime Live, a virtual tourism platform that streams 24/7 cameras showcasing waterways, airports, and small towns, reaching millions worldwide.
Copyright of ReelTime Animal Rescue
Angie Lamson
With over two decades of accounting and management experience in several industries including law, student loan servicing and healthcare, Angie joins ReelTime Animal Rescue to pursue her passion to help animals.
She is so excited to promote ReelTime and the wonderful organizations that demonstrate the same passion every day!
Copyright of ReelTime Animal Rescue
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Partner
Horses for Mental Health Campaign 2026
Horses for Mental Health is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to address the mental health crisis by elevating professional programs that incorporate horses as powerful partners in healing. We partner with nonprofit organizations, philanthropists, celebrities, influencers, and companies to realize our collective vision of a world where all mental health needs are met – together.We seek to strengthen engagement to create a community of inclusivity and diversity while increasing access to quality mental health programs incorporating horses that serve all groups of people. Copyright HMH.
Why horses for mental health?
For their survival as prey animals, horses are highly intuitive to nonverbal messages and intentions. Because of this characteristic, horses may respond in ways to our presence that can reflect aspects of ourselves – bringing to the surface beliefs, attitudes, and unresolved trauma which may be impacting our relationships and mental health. This natural, unbiased feedback supports clients in learning and transforming in a safe and powerful way.
Due to their size and presence, horses create a sense of awe, leading to an increase in emotional safety and engagement in the treatment process.
As social animals, horses are a lot like humans. They have different personalities and hierarchies in their social structures, which includes at times challenging one another in those roles. They can be hypervigilant of their environment, which can be healthy or unhealthy. It is easy to resonate with the similarities horses have to our own lives, and which provides opportunities to learn from them that feels relevant to other life and relationship situations.
Horses provide a safe and dynamic environment, where peace and healing comes through the relationship facilitated by trained professionals.
Copyright HMH.
https://horsesformentalhealth.org/campaigns/hooves-of-hope-youth-empowerment-animal-rescue/
Grow Our Vision
Help Us Heal Through Horses –
Support Our HMH Campaign
This May, Hooves of Hope Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue Inc. is proud to be part of the Horses for Mental Health Campaign — a global movement turning awareness into real action for mental health.
Mental health is not just something we talk about — it’s something we live.
Our journey began through personal pain. As a mother, I have supported my daughter through trauma experienced in high school. I have also lost two uncles and a cousin to suicide.
These experiences are why Hooves of Hope exists — to create a space where healing feels possible again.
Through our programs, we partner rescued horses with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, and emotional challenges. Alongside our partners at Mind at Peace Centre Mieux Être, we provide trauma-informed, equine-assisted support that builds trust, confidence, and connection.
Because sometimes healing doesn’t begin with words —
it begins beside a horse.
Why Your Donation Matters
When you donate through our campaign, 100% of your contribution stays with Hooves of Hope to directly support our work in the community.
Your support helps us:
• Provide mental health program scholarships for youth, veterans, and families
• Care for our rescued horses, who are essential to the healing process
• Expand access to equine-assisted mental health services in rural communities
• Build safe, trauma-informed spaces where people can begin again
Be Part of the Healing
Every dollar makes a difference.
You are not just donating —
You are helping someone feel safe.
You are helping someone feel seen.
You are helping someone find hope again.
👉 Donate to Hooves of Hope – Horses for Mental Health Campaign
https://horsesformentalhealth.org/campaigns/hooves-of-hope-youth-empowerment-animal-rescue/
Help Us Rescue More Animals
At Hooves of Hope Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue Inc., every rescue is a promise — a commitment to abused, neglected, and surrendered animals a second chance at life.
We work closely with provincial veterinarians and trusted farriers, carefully selecting professionals based on each animal’s temperament and medical needs.
Every intake begins with a thorough veterinary assessment, including vaccinations, deworming, dental and hoof care, and treatment for issues such as lice, selenium deficiency, and anemia.
We also monitor carefully for refeed syndrome — a serious risk for severely malnourished animals.
Most rescues come to us through social media, website inquiries, or owner surrenders.
There’s a big difference between neglect and abuse — and we know that some owners deeply love their animals but can no longer care for them. When they reach out, we offer compassion and a safe solution.
Rescue is costly:
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Donkeys start at $2,000+, plus trailering ($1,200–$1,800 within New Brunswick; double from Ontario or out west).
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Horses cost are similar
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Farrier care costs $50–$100 per trim (plus sedation if needed).
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Veterinary visits range from $300–$1,000 each.
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Hay costs exceed $25,000 per year, and feed totals over $6,000 annually.
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Supplements range from $150/month and up
Before becoming a nonprofit, all expenses were paid personally and out of pocket. Now, as a registered nonprofit, we can finally accept donations and sponsorships to continue and expand this vital work.
Every contribution — big or small — makes a difference. Your support helps us rescue, rehabilitate, and care for more animals who deserve a safe and loving home.
“Broken animals healing broken people.”
Sponsor an Animal – Change a Life
When you sponsor an animal at Hooves of Hope Youth Empowerment & Animal Rescue Inc., you’re not just helping provide food or vet care — you’re giving a rescued animal a second chance at life.
Your sponsorship helping provide food or vet care — you’re giving a rescued animal a second chance at life. Your sponsorship directly supports daily care, medical needs, and rehabilitation for horses, donkeys, and other animals in our sanctuary.
Many of the animals we rescue come from neglect, abuse, or auction situations, arriving underweight, frightened, or injured. Each one requires time, patience, and compassion — along with consistent veterinary, farrier, and nutritional support.
Sponsorship Levels
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Hay Hero – $50/month
Helps provide fresh hay and feed for one rescued horse or donkey. -
Health Guardian – $100/month
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Contributes to veterinary exams, vaccinations, and farrier care.
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Healing Partner – $250/month
Supports full care for one animal, including rehabilitation and training. -
Hope Sponsor – $500/month
Helps fund emergency rescues and long-term sanctuary care for high-need animals.
Each sponsor receives updates and photos of the animals they’re supporting and the satisfaction of knowing they’re part of a compassionate community of change-makers.
Every sponsorship saves lives. Whether you sponsor monthly, annually, or as a one-time gift, your generosity ensures that no animal is left behind.
Sponsor an Animal Today
"Broken animals healing broken people.”
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Programs
At Hooves of Hope, every moment spent with our animals is a step toward healing, growth, and connection. Through our Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) programs, we help youth and adults build confidence, communication, and emotional resilience — guided by the gentle presence of our rescued horses and donkeys.
In collaboration with Mind at Peace Health Centre Mieux Etre, we offer equine psychotherapy, blending the power of professional mental health support with the quiet wisdom of horses.
Our farm is a place where people and animals find peace together.
We welcome families, individuals, and groups — including schools and community organizations — for farm visits, day camps, and lunch-and-learn sessions. Every visit offers a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and experience the simple beauty of healing through hope and compassion.
Camps
Youth and Adult Programs
At Hooves of Hope, we believe in the power of connection — between people, animals, and nature. Our youth and adult camps offer unforgettable experiences where participants can meet new friends, play games, and discover the personalities, needs, and habits of our rescued animals. Campers learn the responsibilities of caring for them, and when conditions allow, enjoy gentle rides or relaxing moments by the beach.
Therapy
Healing Sessions
Hooves of Hope provides Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), a unique program designed to foster personal growth and. Mind at Peace Centre Mieux Etre specializes in equine psychotherapy, utilizing the bond humans and horses to promote emotional healing. Together, they offer transformative experiences that cater to diverse needs.
Visits
Farm Tours
Our farm visits allow community engagement, as visitors learn about animal rescue efforts. This educational experience fosters awareness and appreciation for animal welfare in a relaxing atmosphere.
Education
Lunch & Learns
We host Lunch & Learn sessions, where visitors can explore topics such as animal rescue, emotional wellness, and mental health. Through our partnership with Mind at Peace Health, licensed psychologists are part of our extended team, offering compassionate insight and professional support during select programs.
Every visit to Hooves of Hope — whether a farm tour, day camp, or group session — is an invitation to slow down, connect, and heal alongside the animals who have found hope here too.
Our Impact
Every day at Hooves of Hope, lives are being changed — both human and animal. What began as Broken Saddle Riding, a small family-run rescue has grown into a not-for-profit organization dedicated to healing, connection, and community.
Many of our horses and donkeys have come from situations of neglect or abandonment. Through time, care, and compassion, they rediscover trust and safety — and in that process, they help people do the same.
Our programs have touched the lives of children, youth, and adults, helping them build confidence, ease anxiety, and learn empathy through meaningful, hands-on experiences. Whether it’s brushing a horse, learning about animal care, or sharing a quiet moment in the pasture, each interaction becomes a step toward healing and hope.
With the support of Mind at Peace Centre Mieux Etre, our programs also offer access to mental health professionals, ensuring participants receive care that nurtures both emotional and psychological well-being.
Together, we’re creating a community where broken animals heal broken people, one connection at a time.
Rescue
Safe Haven
We provide a safe haven for horses and donkeys in need of rescue, ensuring proper care and rehabilitation for a brighter future.
Empowerment
Youth Engagement
Our programs empower youth by fostering leadership skills, emotional growth, and understanding of animal care, shaping responsible future caretakers.
Community
Local Support
We rely on local support to sustain our mission, working hand in hand with our community to raise awareness and promote animal welfare.
Education
Learning Together
Educational initiatives highlight the importance of animal care and compassion in promoting well-rounded, responsible youth.
Donna Legacy
"I am immensely proud of you for what you have done, what you are doing and for what you will do in the future!"
Tree Tree
"Oh my heart, I had such a deep appreciation for Ike. He instantly connected with me during a therapy session, & I will never forget the comfort he provided me within those moments. Such a gentle giant. I am so deeply sorry for you loss."
Amanda Dowdall
"I love this so much! Thank you for meeting him where he is at, and loving him regardless of what he can "offer" you. Great glow up!"
Verna LaPointe
"Your story is truly inspiring, and I'm so grateful for people like you who turn their struggles into passion for helping others."
Jessica Richardson
“The world will never be the same without them. You performed the biggest act of kindness for them Miah, we will miss them terribly. Thank you Louis for being Rodrique's first Big Horse ride & giving him all the confidence & all the camp kids such confidence being around a gentle giant, we will miss Ike's quiet & comforting company & presence. Forever in our hearts."
Eleanor Duffy
“Beautiful story of resilience and the ability of animals to communicate and help heal.”
Open Hours
Monday to Friday
Visits are by appointment only to ensure confidentiality during therapy sessions. We prioritize your privacy comfort, so please contact us to schedule your appointment at convenience. Thank you for understanding!
Saturday
Welcome! Please note that we operate by appointment only. To personalized service, we kindly ask you to schedule your visit in advance. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Sunday
Closed