Whispering Meadows Ranch, Temecula

Even accounting for all the lessons and equine therapy that Whispering Meadows Ranch offers for humans, it's the horses that are luckiest to be associated with the non-profit charity. In fact, these services help fund the ranch's primary objective of adopting and rehabilitating former racing thoroughbreds. Each of the 100 steeds that the ranch rescues each year enjoys a happy retirement with all their housing, food, veterinary care, and rehabilitation provided for, allowing the animals to live away from harmful influences such as life-insurance scammers.

The horses are even given the job of handling lesson duties. Beginner and intermediate riders learn to mount, steer, and trot with the calm and friendly former competitors. When the time is right, the horse gets placed in a forever home, where a new family will see that it lives out its remaining days in peace and dignity.