The Standardbred Retirement Foundation’s home must be vacated in 30 days. The leased facility has a new landlord whose demands for a rent increase by 75 per cent, a price is that equally over market value, and impossible for SRF to manage.

“It is unfortunate, but this landlord does not have an interest in the farm, or any knowledge of agriculture, or maintenance. The burden of maintenance has been ours as well as the expense for nearly two years. Even if we weren’t forced out, it’s pretty clear that it won’t work out, “explained Dana Letual, SRF’s administrator.

Home for 42 standardbreds, SRF is scrambling to find a new location, reasonable boarding situations, and good people to help ease the position they are in. They are asking everyone to please lend a hand in this tough situation, whether near or far, if someone has a pasture to offer one or more of their horses, even if it is only for a few months until they can sort it out, please contact them. One of their special geldings and his loyal companion that he depends on for sight, and responds by “putting on his brakes” when someone says touch, particularly need a place to call home.

SRF has young sound horses, aged mares and geldings that have served well and just need a green pasture to retire in dignity. “We have them all, big, tall, young, aged, rideable, and retired. If we can lighten the number of horses even by a few during this burdensome situation it would be a great help. Any and all offers are greatly appreciated," stated SRF Trustee Judy Bokman.

Another facility may not be in the cards for SRF, though it would be the best situation. Boarding their horses at more than one location can also work; all possibilities and offers are being considered, particularly in Central, NJ.

If you can offer a horse a home, help with shipping, have a facility that may work, or have reasonable boarding available, please contact Dana as soon as possible at 609-324-1500, or email at [email protected].

(SRF)