Adopters
"I adopted my mare Pippa from CCR in April of 2024. Everyone I interacted with throughout the process was friendly and helpful, from applying, to meeting and riding Pippa, to arranging her ride home. One of the things that’s great about CCR is the variety of horses they rescue. No matter what you’re looking for, they probably have it! I’m so happy to have had a small part in the work they are doing, and also to have my beautiful girl!"
-Jackie
"My family and I live on a little ranch here in VA and my son (4yo) wanted a little mini horse to call his own. I knew exactly where to look. I pulled up her website and let him look through all of her available minis.
He fell in love with a little mini gelding named Autumn. We made the trip right away (october 2024) and it was love at first sight! And of course I had fallen head over heels for 2 more adorable babies, Aspen and Nelly. And before we knew it all three came home with us! I had one happy kiddo.
Sadly, Autumn caught some sickies at some point and did not make it through even with all of our efforts to help him. I had reached back out to CCR to let them know the news and they were very apologetic, and offered for my son to come back and try and find a new baby.
In November (2024) we made the trip again to the rescue. They took my son to see the minis and he found the perfect one, similar to "his" autumn. That is when we brought home JuiceBox."
-Kari
"I lost my horse just before my wife and I began dating, and she never got to experience the deep bond I shared with horses. It wasn’t until we’d been together for a while that I convinced her to join me at Colby’s Crew to go look at a Belgian. She had no idea what she was getting into—especially with a giant like Clifford, standing at 18.2 (and a half) hands. As soon as he was home, everything clicked. It wasn’t just me healing from the loss of my previous horse; Clifford did something incredible—he opened my wife’s heart to the joy and healing that only a horse can bring. Clifford has turned out to be the best horse we could have ever dreamed of, not only restoring my spirit but also welcoming my wife into the beautiful world of horse ownership. He's more than just a horse—he’s become a part of our family and a symbol of new beginnings for both of us."
-Morgan
"My family’s experience with Colby’s Crew Rescue was a wonderful surprise. I have always dreamed of owning horses, and when my grandparents learned about the opportunity to rescue through CCR, they made that dream a reality. During our visit to Colby’s Crew Rescue, our intention was to adopt just one horse. However, after meeting Keeper, we couldn’t resist bringing Mikey home as well. Both horses are incredibly sweet and have been a joy to have. Additionally, my grandfather had mentioned the possibility of adopting a mule, so when CCR contacted us about a mule they had recently taken in, we eagerly decided to adopt her. Her name is Wendy, and she is just as kind and gentle as the horses. We were also introduced to a horse who was a half-brother to Keeper and Mikey. He was stunning, and instead of bringing home just Wendy, we also decided to adopt Dutch. The three horses we adopted are Standardbred trotters, and they absolutely enjoy being ridden. They also retain a strong instinct for pulling a race cart. When it’s time to harness them, their excitement is palpable; they can hardly wait to get started, and as soon as you’re seated in the cart, they eagerly begin trotting around the track we’ve created. Recently, we also purchased a larger buggy for Wendy, who was originally a work mule and draft cross. Wendy is a calm and relaxed mule, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride for anyone who takes the reins. These horses and mule have formed an inseparable bond, and they absolutely love running and playing in the pasture together."
-Charleigh
"My best friend Leah and I first went to meet a Standardbred named Archie. Archie was a model citizen, but wasn’t the horse for me.
We asked if there were any other horses we could meet. They said none that matched my needs, but one would be coming back in a week or two that we might like. His name was Smokey Joe, and his current adopter (a 78-year-old doctor) had fallen in her house, broken a hip and reluctantly entered assisted living.
Smokey Joe was a dream! I adopted him that very day and returned two days later to pick him up.
The terms of the adoption call for me to send photos once a month, so CCR can monitor his health and well-being. Frankly, I have way too much fun sending multiple photos and describing his latest adventures! We’re coming up on our first anniversary. Thereafter, I’ll just have to send photos annually. But I know myself ... CCR will probably be hearing tales of Smokey Joe much more frequently!"
-Cindy
"Where do I start? There’s a lot to cover if I’m being honest… I originally heard about Colby’s crew through a friend.. Cause she too had adopted a horse, mind you this was a year before I met my girl (Dream). So of course when I turned 18 I could adopt my very own horse. My heart was really set on a Dutch Harness, I loved it everything about that breed. But the horse I had my eyes set on was already adopted and I was happy for him.
And I continued to look, and I found some Belgian babies and some ponies, most of the Belgians were mixed but it didn’t bother me. Although I came across Dream, she was a pure red roan Belgian. Believed to be three, when I might Dream I was in complete shock she was HUGE and with a beautiful soggy build. Good muscle definition and a lil attention thief, when we had our meet and greet I walked her around a bit she responded well to my ques and body language. I was shocked to even see her back up, she was overall very comfortable with me and as I with her.
At the end of our meet and greet, I decided to adopt her and bring her into my heart and my mini herd."
-H.P.
"On December 18, 2024 I saw on the Colby’s Rescue facebook page two miniature donkeys that needed a home. I had been looking to adopt one , so I filled out the online adoption form. The next day I was approved and Friday December 20 went to the farm in Keswick. The farm is gorgeous with plenty of pastures and paddocks. I arrived at 11:30 and every stall and paddock had full hay bags and not a single pile of manure to be seen. Horses and donkeys were calm and happy. I visited with the two mini donkeys and of course said yes. I then filled out paperwork, paid their fee and was given new halters and leads. In addition, the donkeys had already been microchipped, teeth floated, feet trimmed and vaccinated. So amazing how all those animals are so well cared for and the staff is kind and knowledgeable .I would highly recommend adopting from Colby’s rescue as they have the animals best interest at hand."
-Rhonda
"When I first saw “Hera” (now renamed Buttercup by my 7 year old daughter) she was hiding in the corner of the stall. As we entered you could feel her nervous energy- she was terrified. But once we started walking around the property together and she realized I was a friend, she got brighter and curious and brave. I walked her all around the property. I could train a horse but I needed to know if she was able to forgive humans for whatever they did to her. That she could trust me. On that walk, I realized how special this pony really was. Although scared, it was clear Colby’s Crew had laid the foundation in training to help get her back on the road to trusting humans. I felt completely comfortable bringing her home based on their thorough quarantine process and strangles guttural pouch testing.
“Hera” has been in our lives 5 months now and in that time she has gone from an unhandled baby to trotting under saddle and being the bareback happy hacker pony every family dreams of. I call her utility pony because she’s unflappable and always up for an adventure.
I am forever grateful that CCR pulled her from the kill pen. I often think back to the original ad they posted, that someone had Hera’s papers… and just dumped her. Somehow, in the darkness of the kill pen, Ally saw the light that is “Hera” (and hundreds of other horses). It has been an honor to have worked with CCR on finding my perfect pony. Just as the original ad described, she’s sound, with a good brain and temperament. And so much more."
-Caitlin
"Last winter, I saw CCR’s adoption advertisement for a senior Percheron gelding name Peanut. I was smitten by his advertisement, but was not sure how he would fit into my life at the time because I was also 9 months pregnant at the time. However, a few more weeks went by and when we was still available for adoption, I knew it was meant to be! I brought him home the following week and he became known as Oreo.
People are willing to overlook horses for many reasons, such as being too old or too big. All of his lumps and bumps told a story of his past and added to his character. I am sad that I did not get to be here for the 20+ years that he lived before meeting me, but thankful that I get to be his person for the rest of his life. He is large in size, but absolutely a gentle giant with so much love to give. I will forever be grateful to CCR for rescuing Oreo, because they allowed me to find my best friend."
-Sarah
"We were met at the main barn by the staff, who had us fill out some waivers, and gave us a brief history on our way to meet Dale. Once at the paddock where Dale was, I was given a lead to take him back to the barn close to where he was. Once there, we were able to get a close look at him, and a few more details about what they and their vets were able to do for him. I knew there was no way, I was not going home without him, even before I rode him. She asked if I’d like an English or Western saddle, and was quite the comedian when she asked what my riding ability was on a scale of 1-10. I replied a 3, and she immediately replied I would need to be at least a 4 to ride him. Fortunately her beaming smile gave her away very quickly.
Then it was back to the main barn, with Dale in tow, to do the final adoption paperwork. A short time later, with new halter and lead courtesy of CCR, we had Dale in the trailer for the ride home.
Overall, my experience with CCR was nothing short of amazing. Their friendly staff, the way they take care of the horses they save, the grounds they have the horses on, veterinary care they give them, and the follow up they have for adopted horses, is top notch! If I had more acreage and more resources to care for more horses, CCR is the place I would go. I will continue to follow and contribute to their cause as long as I am able, as I truly believe they are angels on Earth."
-Bob
"I had long been interested in rescuing an Amish equine after spending several years living in Pennsylvania. I had been watching CCR on social media for a while and was impressed by their content and their transparency, so when the time came that I was ready to adopt, I cautiously approached them. I am a natural skeptic so I was ready to be let down by the actual visit. I have never been more surprised. While I had something in mind, I was open to their suggestions, and we spent some time talking about my needs and desires. Ally was completely open and up front about the horses and mules and their suitability, even stating that for what I was looking for she wouldn't be comfortable showing a particular horse to me. I was allowed all the time that I needed and was never pressured. I fell for a saddlebred mare, and was told that if for whatever reason she didn't work out, she always had the option to come back. The adoption fee was more than reasonable, and they were great about connecting with the transporter to get her home quickly.
What has truly impressed me is the care and concern that they have taken in the months following Yasha's adoption. After suffering a serious injury that could have lead to loss of life with out expensive intervention, I was prepared to send her back to CCR to give her the best chance of survival. I called Ally up, and not only were they willing to provide a grant to cover a portion of the cost, they were very supportive in ensuring I had access to second opinions if I desired. Because of this group, Yasha not only escaped a dismal end, but she got a second chance at the retirement she deserves, and she's recovering happily here at home. I highly recommend adopting through CCR, and hope to do so again in the future!"
-Summer
"I want to say how incredibly impressed I was with the adoption facilities at Colby's Crew. The staff was extremely informative and honest about all of their horses. The horses were well cared for and relaxed when we went to visit. You can tell this organization truly desires the best for these neglected and abused animals. We brought home three rescues and they have been fantastic. These animals seem to appreciate a loving home and are blossoming under our kindness and attention. This has been an incredibly heartwarming experience and I will get every future horse through Colby’s Crew!"
-Shana
"Our barn has adopted several horses from CCR over the past year, each of which have found their unique callings within our riding program. We are firm believers in setting our horses up for success and CCR helps us do this through their visitation process and open honesty about their horses. We can always count on CCR to tell us exactly which individuals they think will fit into our program well. There are no secrets with CCR, they truly care about finding the perfect forever homes for every equine that comes through their barns. These horses have so much heart and so much to offer and we are grateful for the second chance that CCR provides to them!"
-Ella
"In February 2024 we adopted a miniature horse from Colby's Crew. We were able to get our adoption application in and get them all the additional information needed to get approval, and hooked up our trailer in case we decided to bring the little guy that caught our eye home. Even though I've had horses a long time, we'd never adopted before but the staff member was very friendly and made us feel at home. We went out to meet all the minis, and spent some time with Cooper who we’d seen posted. He had the kindest eyes, loved getting cookies and was very calm. We decided he was the one for us! As soon as we finished the paperwork, we were surprised to get a new halter in the color of our choice and a bag of treats for the road! It was the best feeling, and shows how much they care about sending their guys off to the best next part of their life. He has turned out to be the best little gentleman and a great companion for my mare. They love being together so much that they whinny for each other if I take one of them out of the pasture. My husband and I made the four hour drive to Charlottesville into a road trip and it was the best road trip ever - snacks and all with a mini in tow on the way home! It's always taken me a week or two to name any pet we've had, but my husband said he's getting a name before we get home. Cooper became Sterling, because he's a silver bay and silver is a precious metal, just like he's precious to us. I continue to keep up with Colby's Crew on social media, and when I'm ready for another horse to ride I'll be looking to see if one catches my eye like Sterling did that day."
-Kristi
Volunteers, supporters and visitors
"I've always felt that I had an affinity with animals since I was a little kid. I started following CCR in December of 2020. I had recently had a hip replacement and Covid was happening, so I was in search of things to occupy my time. I came across the girls on CCR and was immediately drawn to their honesty, intelligence and obvious emotional attachment to the horses they had begun trying to save. I continued to follow during my recovery and their desire to save horses from a horrific end touch me deeply. They received substantial support from me and a few others during those early months when they were getting established. Since I was donating a bit, I wanted to see how the operation was being run; and might have been one of the first people to visit the original CCR farm. I spent a few days with the girls and was deeply impressed with their horse knowledge as well as their dedication to preventing horses from going to slaughter. But the most magical encounter I had was with Colby. I had been warned that he was uneasy with people he didn't know and to be careful around him. The pictures below show the bond we had almost immediately. I have seen Colby several times since then at the new farm twice and at the exposition in Harrisburg and it has always been the same. I think on some level he knows that I am helping his fellow equines to escape the horrors of the slaughter factory. His gentle nature cemented my dedication to support CCR."
-JoAnne
"As a non horse person but an avid follower and supporter of Colby’s Crew Rescue, I’ve been lucky enough to volunteer at the farm several times and each time I walk away with a new appreciation and deeper respect for what this rescue does. I’ve met horses I’ve seen on the live fundraisers and have even been onsite when some of them were adopted. Talk about seeing your donations in action. Such a full circle experience!! Ally and Olivia are kind, caring, and gracious and it’s obvious they put the needs of the horses first and foremost. Their attention to detail and dedication shines through in everything. And even though I’m a non horse person who mainly helps with organizing supplies, they provided me with the opportunity to learn how to groom one of the rescues (Onyx). I can’t say enough good things about this rescue or these amazing women, and I will proudly continue to support them anyway I can."
-Stephanie
"In late 2022 I reached out to CCR about adopting a horse after I lost my mare. I was contacted very quickly and went to see one particular horse within a few day. When I was there both of “the girls” talked to me about what I wanted, what my experiences were, and the horses available. Unlike a lot of places where you try horses, they had me go through everything with the horses including grooming, tacking up, and riding, so that I got a very good feel for who the horses were and what they would need/how they would fit with my needs. I rode two horses, but unfortunately neither were the perfect fit for me at the time. I later communicated again as potential horses came across my FB/Instagram page, but sadly none were exactly what I was looking for at the time (no fault of CCR or the horses – just more horse than I needed at the time). So despite not adopting from them at that time, I learned a lot in that visit: 1) “the girls” are exactly like what you see on their videos (in fact it felt a bit odd meeting someone who I felt like I know personally from listening to/seeing them on screen so often and having them be EXACTLY what I expected them to be) 2) They are great with setting people up with a horse that will be a good fit for them 3) their facility is amazing, clean, beautiful and huge 4) all of the horse I saw there looked happy, healthy, relaxed and well taken care of. Finally, one of the horses I looked at was a “return” after a relatively lengthy time at their new home. This is maybe one of the things that I appreciate most about CCR and how much they follow-up on and take care/are committed long term to their horses. I fully plan to continue to donate and I hope that I will be able to adopt from them soon!"
-Beth
"I have been following and supporting CCR for a little over a year. I think what Ally, Olivia, Janice and all of the Crew does is amazing! The horses and all the animals are so special.
I had the opportunity to tour CCR last summer and Janice was incredible. I was also able to meet Ally and Olivia and they were great. I couldn't believe I got to meet all those special horses and animals. If anyone has the opportunity to tour CCR they should. It is one of the most special experiences I ever had and I will cherish it forever. I hope to go back and volunteer.
I am also a subscriber and on Patreon and enjoy all of the updates and pictures from Ed, Janice, and Olivia. It makes me feel like I am a part of CCR.
CCR has 100% of my support!!!"
-Cathy
"After many years of following and supporting the journey of Colby’s Crew Rescue from England, I finally got the opportunity to make the trip to volunteer. I am so happy I did because I had the best time volunteering. I did initially worry about whether my disability would hinder my ability to volunteer. I reached out and discussed with the team some of my limitations. They took them time to understand what I could and could not do. They found tasks for me that I felt comfortable doing but that were also helpful for them. I got to meet all the horses I had spent many years loving and supporting from a far. I loved being able to see the great care they take in looking after the horses and all the work that goes into the farm. I had an incredible experience and I can’t wait to come back to the farm and do it again."
-Mary
"I am a frequent volunteer and donor at Colby’s Crew Rescue. As a volunteer, I travel a long distance, so I frequently stay 4 or 5 days at a time. In 2024 I volunteered a total of 34 days and loved the rescue more each time. I think what has impressed me most about the farm is that it’s all about the horses. Whenever I have been there each and every horse has received individual care and attention every day. The pastures are large and well-kept and the barn and stalls are clean and maintained better than any other barn I have ever been in. The entire staff is focused on every need and detail of providing care. Although they are always busy, they are always friendly and always have time for a question and they have always been appreciative of whatever assistance I provide.
As a donor, I am 100% satisfied that my donations are put to good use saving lives. It is easy to see where my donations have gone when I see horses once on death’s door in the pen standing in front of me at the main farm healthy and getting adopted into forever homes. One of the best parts of each visit is that there are always new horses to recognize and meet because the others have found homes and the new group have recovered and are ready for new lives. I’ve been to a sanctuary and seen Bonnie and others enjoying their retirement. I’ve seen and worked with horses featured in the videos. It’s really hard to imagine how big Big John really is or how small Bison is until you have seen them in person. I have seen the excellent care the horses receive from the veterinarians and farriers.
In closing, I could go on and on about CCR but will stop here. If you love CCR I recommend that you take a trip to Virginia and either take a tour or volunteer (Janice gives the best tours). But just a warning, once you have visited, you may love it as much as me and need to go back again and again. CCR is my rescue and the only one I recommend."
-Susan
“I had the opportunity to visit CCR just after New Year’s Day this year. I’ve been a long time supporter & finally took the opportunity to drive out for a tour.
Once the visit was coordinated, I drove up with a friend. What I thought would take an hour turned into 2 & a half as Janice took us all around to meet & spend a little time with the beautiful horses we see & hear about on Olivia’s videos. This was just after the big rescue of multiple groups of horses that had come into the slaughter facility one after the other. I’d been really worried that we wouldn’t be able to get them all. CCR got every one of those horses out-tears of joy that day!
The grounds are beautiful, the barn was amazing, and meeting Ally & Olivia, Janice, Stephanie and the others, in person-was a big deal. As a committed supporter of the cause, it was like meeting some of my own personal “celebrities”. They don’t think of themselves like that, but I do. The team puts their heart and soul into horse rescue.
For anyone interested, I would highly recommend a tour of CCR. Janice was a great tour guide, and made sure we saw the horses on my “list”, and all the others who were available to see. One highlight was meeting Sterling-she’s amazing. Colby, Big John, Onyx & Obsidian, little Bison, for a non-horse person, to see these animals & how they’re thriving today-truly outstanding. I’m looking forward to the next visit."
-Dana