Welcome to Rapidan Equine Sanctuary
Providing sanctuary to neglected equines while embracing the bond they share with humans.
Our Story
Rapidan Equine Sanctuary (RES), a registered 501(c)(3), provides sanctuary to neglected equines while embracing the bond they share with humans. We are committed to compassionate care, responsible stewardship, and building meaningful connections between all equines (horses, donkeys, mules, and ponies), people, and the community. We envision a world where every equine is valued and respected, and where their human partners grow in confidence and ability. By strengthening trust between equines, humans, and communities, we strive for a future where no horse suffers neglect, and all can experience the transformative power of equine stewardship.​
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RES was founded in 2024 by a group of dedicated individuals determined to bring an effective, transparent, and principled equine sanctuary to the Fredericksburg area. Operations began in March 2025, and since then, RES has provided safe, permanent care for 15 equines who otherwise faced neglect or abandonment. From the beginning, RES was built on the belief that horses deserve more than survival—they deserve to thrive in a safe environment where their physical, emotional, and social needs are met. Every rescue, every pasture, and every volunteer hour is part of this promise. We live by our values of integrity, courage, compassion, education, and fun.​​​