In 1996, Anita TenBruggencate had the idea of establishing an adoption organization for retired standardbreds in Ontario, and her hard work and dedication led to the formation of the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society

, which has placed more than 500 horses since that time.

TenBruggencate worked as program co-ordinator for OSAS during its first three years of operation; and left to start a family, and for several years stayed home with her daughters Elana (now 12) and Cara (10).

OSAS is very pleased that Anita has returned to the fold to work part-time as adoptions co-ordinator, starting back at it in May of this year. Her main focus with OSAS will be on placing the available horses first into foster care and then to suitable, permanent homes.

"Standardbreds are extremely versatile, level-headed and patient with people and I receive great pleasure in helping them get placed into a second home/career where they are loved and appreciated,” she said.

TenBruggencate has a strong background with horses as she started riding at eight years of age. She adopted her own horse, Jacquard, from OSAS 14 years ago and they enjoy trail riding in nearby conservation areas.

“I get a lot of pleasure from being out with my horse and in helping others find a wonderful equine companion.”

TenBruggencate worked for Hall of Fame horseman Bill Wellwood in the early 1990s as well as trainer Rob Fellows. It was during a period when she worked for Tom Artandi in Florida that she first learned about horse adoption programs.

She brings a great deal of knowledge and experience to her role at OSAS, and the board of directors is extremely pleased to welcome her back to the organization she created.

OSAS has a number of horses available for adoption, anyone interested in a wonderful standardbred as a companion or riding horse should contact Anita at 905-854-6099.

(OSAS)