April 2022 Issue

EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN April 2022 Page 21 Days End Farm Horse Rescue Absorbs the Maryland Equine Transition Service Rescue,” said Erica Lancaster, President, Maryland Horse Council Foundation. “The METS program has conclusively demonstrated that its model for protecting horses by facilitating their successful transitions works, and fills a critical, and previously unmet, need. I am confident that DEFHR is the paramount industry partner to continue this important work well into the future. DEFHR has a proven track record in innova- tive and effective equine welfare programs and is well positioned both statewide and nationally to ensure the growth and success of this program. I look forward to working together to ensure every horse has a protected future.” “The Maryland Horse Council and Maryland Horse Council Foun- dation have done an excellent job growing the METS program and engaging the horse industry and community in an important conver- sation,” stated Erin Clemm Ochoa, CEO, DEFHR, who has been a member of the program’s steering committee since its creation. “Core to DEFHR’s mission is serving and educating the community to advance equine welfare. DEFHR’s absorption of the METS program is a natural extension of our work and will enable us to double down on our mission by increasing conversations with horse owners, ultimately helping to prevent horses from landing in dire situations. We look forward to continuing the pro- gram within our daily operations and allowing the MHC Foundation to focus on long-term sustainability and other key objectives.” The Maryland Equine Transi- tion Service (METS) is a state- wide equine safety net initiative of the Maryland Horse Council Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, that provides safe alternatives for horses needing homes by helping owners identify and select the best transition options for their horses. The Maryland Horse Council, Inc (MHC) is a 501(c)(6) trade association that represents all segments of the Maryland horse industry, at the state and local level. MHC has been representing the Maryland horse industry for over 35 years. MHC works to represent, connect, and educate all members of the Maryland eques- trian community. The Maryland Horse Council Foundation was created by MHC as a 501(c)(3) organization to house METS and other charitable initiatives. (Continued from page 4)