25 Mar 2025
By Humane Society of Ventura County
HSVC had the privilege of sending Kendra King, Humane Investigations Director, and Christina Malleck, Equine Manager, to attend the ASPCA Right Horse Summit in Fort Worth, Texas. The Summit focused on improving equine welfare through innovative adoption solutions, community partnerships, and creative marketing strategies. The experience was nothing short of enlightening, offering a wealth of insights into the future of equine adoption and the critical role animal welfare organizations play in creating lasting connections between horses and their new homes.
Throughout the event, Kendra and Christina participated in a series of dynamic workshops, brainstorming sessions, and hands-on demonstrations. Topics ranged from best practices for equine adoption to creative solutions for rehoming horses, with particular emphasis on keeping horses in their homes and ensuring they receive the ongoing veterinary care they need. One of the summit's highlights was a deep dive into pathway planning—an essential tool that helps animal welfare organizations understand the needs of each horse and tailor a personalized adoption plan.
Kendra and Christina also worked closely with ASPCA's partners at the Humane Society of North Texas (HSNT), where they spent an action-packed day immersed in real-world scenarios. At HSNT, attendees had the chance to practice equine behavior assessments, learn how to conduct thorough intake exams, and explore ways to market adoptable horses to a broader audience. The collaboration with HSNT was not just informative but inspiring. Amanda and Steve, the passionate individuals behind HSNT's work, are deeply dedicated to finding loving homes for companion horses in their community. Their commitment and unwavering belief in the importance of each horse’s journey were palpable, and it was clear that their hard work is making a significant impact on the lives of both horses and their adopters.
