March 2 at 10:00 am, 3845 North Swan Street – "End of the Road Ranch Horse Rescue"
On Sunday, March 2, the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Silver City will host a program featuring the End of the Road Ranch Horse Rescue. Carol Gadda, a four-year volunteer at the ranch, will be giving the presentation and founder Carol Johnson will be available to answer questions.
Johnson has loved horses all her life. In 2005 her dream became a reality; compelled by the plight of PMU (pregnant mare urine) mares – female horses kept in a constant state of pregnancy to produce the estrogen rich urine needed for hormone replacement drugs such as Premarin – and their foals. When no longer able to conceive, the mares were routinely sent to slaughter along with the unwanted foals. Johnson was determined to provide refuge for these horses and other at-risk equines, and End of the Road Ranch Rescue was founded. Today, one of the original PMU mares and two foals rescued still call the ranch home along with 34 other Equines.
Currently, most horses at End of the Road Ranch are obtained from the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) after being seized, due to neglect or abuse, or found abandoned. The ranch is one of 12 rescues inspected and licensed by the NMLB that provide sanctuary and care for these horses who might otherwise have been auctioned off at a sale barn. They typically arrive with physical and mental challenges, emaciated or terrified of people, and require strict personalized regimes to help them regain their health and confidence. Time and patience help these abused and neglected horses overcome their mistrust and training is tailored to the their needs.
With their commitment to the horses, and the support of our local community, End of the Road Ranch Rescue, continues with their mission to care for their current residents. While there is always a need for help with the daily fundamental chores, the ranch's greatest wish is for more volunteers to spend time with the horses providing the interaction and love that is so instrumental in the healing process. If volunteering is not possible, consider sponsoring a horse or donating to help defer feed, veterinarian and farrier costs. And there is always the possibility of providing a forever home for those horses that have been rehabilitated and are ready to be rehomed.
Childcare is available every Sunday. Zoey Cronin will lead a formal children's program on second and fourth Sundays.
Children are welcome to participate on any Sunday, but they will get the most out of the program if they attend second and fourth Sundays somewhat regularly. Family adults may stay for the children's program or attend the adult program. Children are encouraged to bring a small item that represents someone or something they are grateful for that week.
There are speakers on the patio if you wish to listen to the service outside.
UUFSC Safety Protocol as pursuant to our most recent UUA Guidelines:
Masks are now optional, but their use is encouraged. We will continue to serve refreshments on the patio and in the building. Visitors are always welcome.
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Silver City is a diverse group of religious independents seeking knowledge, spiritual sustenance, fellowship and opportunities for service to others. Our programs encompass humanism, liberal Christianity, earth-based spirituality, Buddhism and many other traditions. If you'd like to find out more, email
