About The Sanctuary
The Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary (EMES) was established in 2017 to provide care to abused, abandoned,
and/or neglected miniature horses, donkeys and ponies. We specialize in taking equine difficult for other rescue agencies to place due to the health and/or behavioral difficulties the equine exhibit.
EMES is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS).
We have facilities to house 25 equine on site and are typically at capacity. EMES can accept mini equine from animal control, law enforcement and other horse rescue organizations as well as private owners.
Occasionally EMES will acquire equine that are healthy and well behaved. At other times, more challenging equine can be quickly rehabilitated with a little love and attention. Realizing that these equine do not need the intensive care that can be provided by the EMES an adoption program was started in 2018. To date we have placed over 80 small equine into new homes. Our adoption process is involved, but it helps to make sure the equine and new owners are well matched. Any adopted equine can always be returned to EMES if life changes for the new owners so we continue to provide a safety net for any equine who leave us.
Since our founding, the EMES has directly cared for over 120 mini equine. We have also provided consultation, transportation, medical assistance, and placement recommendations to owners when we are not able to care for their equine
directly.
What Kind of Equine Do We Accept?
The Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary accepts smaller equine (those less than 11 hands, or 44 inches at the shoulder). We accept mares (including pregnant ones), geldings, foals, and stallions. Stallions are gelded within days of arrival. Mares and foals are kept together until the foals are weaned at about six months. Foals are kept at the sanctuary for a year after birth to ensure they have a good start in life.
Our residents include donkeys, mini horses, smaller mules, and ponies. The smallest equine at the sanctuary are under 6 hands (24 inches at the shoulder) and we call them the micro-minis!
Visiting the Sanctuary
We love to have visitors meet and interact with the minis at the Elegius Mini Equine Sanctuary. We offer guided tours of the sanctuary to individuals, groups and families. Generally the tour lasts about an hour. There is no charge for the tour, but donations are always gratefully accepted. Guests should wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes or boots (you will be at a farm!) . Due to our insurance policy we cannot allow dogs or other animals on the premises. We are sad about that, but do keep in mind that some of our minis are donkeys and mules that may have been used to keep dogs away from flocks of sheep or goats and therefore could pose a risk to your beloved canine! Please note that the equine inherent risk laws apply to visitors to the sanctuary and that you will be interacting with our minis at your own risk. If you would like to visit EMES, please call us at 540-396-4720 to schedule your tour.