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https://www.serendipity-tn.org/, https://givebutter.com/serendipity-farm-rescue/about

Serendipity Farm & Rescue, 8500 Rancho Drive, Chattanooga, TN (2025)

04/23/2025

I’ve sat with this for a few days. And my heart is still heavy.

Dr. Shawn Frehner, a Nevada veterinarian, was found dead this past week. Yes—the same vet involved in the recent viral video that caused a firestorm online. The footage was hard to watch. He even issued a public apology. But what happened next was something no human being deserves.

What I personally saw unfold on social media was absolutely vile. “Keyboard Warriors” hiding behind screens, hurling comments like “he should k^ll himself,” “what a piece of trash,” and worse. Full-grown adults—many of whom claim to love animals—acting like playground bullies with weapons far more dangerous than sticks and stones.

Let’s be clear: there’s a difference between accountability and cruelty. Between demanding change and demanding blood.

We, as a society, crossed a line with this one. And now a life is gone. A real human being, not just a name on a screen. Someone’s son, someone’s friend, someone who dedicated his life to caring for animals—just like many of us.

Most people don’t realize this, but veterinary professionals already have one of the highest su***de rates of any profession. Female vets are 3.5 times more likely to die by su***de than the general population. For men, it’s 2.1 times higher.

The emotional weight of the job—euthanasia, compassion fatigue, financial strain, long hours, constant demands—it all piles up. Then add a viral video and an avalanche of online hate? It becomes unbearable.

I'm not here to excuse actions that were wrong. I’m here to say: cruelty doesn't heal cruelty. We need to be better. If we really care about animals, we must also care about people. Compassion can't be selective.

To those keyboard warriors who think their words don’t carry weight—you’re wrong. They do. And this time, those words may have pushed someone over the edge.

Rest in peace, Dr. Frehner. I hope your spirit finds the grace and gentleness this world couldn’t offer you in the end.

We must do better. Because children are watching. They’re learning from the way we treat each other, especially in moments of outrage. This kind of behavior trickles down—bullying isn’t just an adult problem; it’s fueling a heartbreaking rise in su***de among kids as young as 10.

Empathy, compassion, and accountability all begin at home. Our kids are either learning love or they’re learning hate. And we are the teachers.

With a heavy- heavy heart,
Tonja Denise

***deprevention ***de

04/20/2025

Spring reminds us that even after the longest winters, life blooms again—quietly, powerfully, and in its own time.

Here at the farm, we see that promise in every horse’s soul, every new blade of grass, and each sunrise and sunset.

Today, in the Spirit of Easter, we’re honoring fresh starts, second chances, and the peaceful rhythm of nature.

However you choose to celebrate, may your day be filled with love, laughter, and light.

Thank you for being part of our village and our healing journey.

—The Serendipity Team

04/18/2025

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙙 “𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙙” 𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙚𝙭𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤.

It stirred panic. It pulled at heartstrings. And it weaponized our empathy against us.

What the post didn’t say? These Thoroughbreds were listed for $1,850 each — nearly double their slaughter value.

The current meat price for horses is about $0.60–$0.75/lb live weight. That means a 1,100 lb Thoroughbred might bring in around $800.

So why are Thoroughbreds magically worth $1,850 or even more to a kill buyer?

𝗕𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝘁 — 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.

Kill pens know Thoroughbreds are traceable — tattooed, chipped, and backed by Jockey Club records. That traceability, meant to protect them, is being twisted into a marketing tool. A horse with a name, a photo, and a race record, or a brood mare that produced some foals earlier in her life- They are a KP goldmine.

And oh boy, when the post saying they “shipped” popped up on their business page —

That’s the clicker — whether true or not — it’s meant to condition you to act faster and more emotionally next time.

And then- some people even began posting “STOP THE TRUCK!!” and claimed they’d contacted the lot… who conveniently said they could turn the truck around for an extra fee per horse.

Let’s be clear:
That 🔺Is 🔺A 🔺Lie!

You are not paying to “bring horses back from the border.” Either they never shipped — or they weren’t suitable to ship in the first place. In either case, no extra fee needs to be paid.

But here is what’s really going on:

Kill pen buyers often operate under contract with slaughterhouses and must fill a weekly quota. Let’s say Mexico needs 100 head of horses this week. The buyer will send 100 horses whether you bail any or not.

But here’s the kicker:
The horses being offered to the public (like those Thoroughbreds)? Those aren’t the ones meant for slaughter.

They’re called “riders.” And no, that doesn’t mean the horse is broke to ride — it means the broker bought them specifically to flip to the public.

They’re not in the slaughter queue — they were never going to be.

They’re surplus horses bought — often beating out families, rescues, and sanctuaries at auction — so they can be posted with a “shipping deadline” and flipped for profit.

If they don’t sell?
They get shuffled to another lot, another auction, or magically get an “extension” if there are fundraisers on the hook.

You didn’t stop that horse from being slaughtered. You helped the broker fund the real slaughter load.

Buy 1, condemn 4.

It’s a scam— and we as an organization once fell for it too but so many others are continuing to fall for it.

🔺The kill buyer uses your money to buy cheap, unmarketable horses to meet quota.
🔹He flips the “pretty” ones to the public, knowing they pull in sympathy dollars.
🔺The true slaughter horses? You never see them.
🔹The cycle keeps churning — because it’s profitable.

And even more unfortunate,
Rescues and real adopters often lose out on these horses at auction because kill buyers drive up the bids — not to save them, but to resell them to you at inflated prices under false pretenses.

We understand the panic.
We understand the heartbreak.
But we HAVE to stop funding this abuse loop with our good intentions.

It’s not “rescue” if the horses were never in danger.
It’s not “saving” if it fuels more suffering.

The only way out is transparency, education, and changing the system from the inside out.

Stop letting them weaponize your heart.
Start demanding the truth.

There was a time we said yes—every time we could.

Yes to the emotional pleas. Yes to the countdowns. Yes to the “shipping tonight” posts.

Because we believed we were saving lives. And in many ways, maybe we were in that moment.

But here’s the truth: not every “rescue” is rescue.

And not every plea is rooted in integrity.

Most of you already know that as of 2025, our organization made a painful but necessary change in policy: We no longer bail horses from kill pens.

Why? Because we’ve come to understand how this system works—and who it truly benefits.

Instead, we’ve chosen to intervene earlier—before these Thoroughbreds ever end up at auction or in the hands of kill buyers.

Because by then, it’s already too late. The price is higher, the horse is traumatized, and the funding only fuels the very system we’re trying to dismantle.

We believe the real rescue happens before the pipeline:
At the point of retirement. At the gate of the track. Before the truck shows up.

That’s where we can make the most meaningful difference—and protect these animals without lining the pockets of exploiters.

But we can’t do this alone.

We need fellow rescues, horse lovers, advocates, and industry partners to step in and collaborate.

What else can we do? What ideas do you have? How can we reroute these horses toward safety—without feeding the machine that profits from their fear?

If we truly want to stop this never-ending cycle, we have to do it together.

With strategy. With compassion. And with the courage to say:

We’re done playing their game and hope you are too.

04/17/2025

Help make a child’s dream come true!

Equestrian sports and healing spaces have long been out of reach for many families due to financial, cultural, and geographic barriers. We believe every child deserves the chance to experience the calm, the confidence, and the connection that horses can bring.

That’s why our programs focus on equestrian equity— providing access to inclusive, consent-based, horse-human partnerships that empower diverse kids to grow, heal, and thrive.

Because healing shouldn’t be a luxury. It should be a right.

Join us, STARS Sporthorses and our The Teal Elephant Project as we build bridges between barn doors and communities who’ve been left out for too long. Let’s make the transformative power of horses something every child can access.

Click here to make an impact

https://givebutter.com/serendipity-farm-rescue

Or follow this link go learn more about becoming a TEP’s sponsor!

https://givebutter.com/serendipity-farm-rescue

With gratitude 🫶🏼

04/08/2025

This and saying “walk on”. 🤣

03/29/2025

Ready to start riding lessons? I want to share some information with you that is helpful when choosing your instructor.

Riding isn’t just about staying in the saddle—it’s about balance, effectiveness, and harmony with your horse. A certified Rider Biomechanics Instructor has specialized training in how a rider’s position influences the horse’s movement. This isn’t just theory; it’s science-backed, practical application that makes a measurable difference.

During a recent lesson I audited, Amy Vanner worked with a student to release tension in her psoas muscles—an adjustment that immediately improved both her position and her horse’s way of going. This level of detailed, individualized instruction helps riders develop stability, security, and confidence in the saddle.

While local shows can sometimes be won without a deep understanding of biomechanics, true progress comes from training that prepares both horse and rider for long-term success—at any level. Whether your goal is competing, gaining confidence, or simply becoming a more effective partner for your horse, choosing a certified instructor ensures you're receiving education rooted in biomechanics, kinesiology, and proper rider development.

Are you ready to ride with more balance, confidence, and connection?

Book your intro lesson today and see difference about how biomechanics-based instruction can elevate your riding journey!

03/28/2025

Help Us Grow—Follow The Teal Elephant Project!

Big things are happening, and we need YOUR support! 🌟 Serendipity has always been a place for healing, creativity, and transformation, and now we’re expanding that mission through The Teal Elephant Project—bringing equine-assisted mentorship to underserved youth.

By following, sharing, and engaging with The Teal Elephant Project, you’re helping us build a movement of hope, healing, and opportunity for kids who deserve a chance to thrive.

📲 Follow us now:
FaceBook: The Teal Elephant Project
Instagram: tealelephantproject

🔄 Share this post to spread the word! (HINT: always write a few sentences before you share. It helps us get seen- promise!)

💙 Every like, comment, and follow helps create real change.

Let’s grow this together—one horse, one child, one journey at a time.

03/27/2025

From Loss to Growth: The Rebirth of The Teal Elephant Project

Sometimes life shakes us to our core, leaving us in the wreckage of what we once knew. Betrayal, loss, and injustice can feel unbearable—but as Wyatt said to me the other day, “Mom, hear me out… if we hadn’t gone through that, we wouldn’t be sitting here with Amy. We are in a much better place with a much better person.”

We lost everything—our horses & animals, our “home”, our ability to trust. But in the space where pain tried to root itself, something else took hold: growth. Because we were forced to start over, we found a place where we truly belong. We found Amy, STARS Sporthorses, and the rebirth of The Teal Elephant Project.

As a student of Eckhart Tolle I have learned that suffering exists when we resist what is. But when we stop clinging to the past and accept the present fully, we unlock the power to transform. As I watched Ellie Grace picking up pinecones and sticks at the farm yesterday, helping in the smallest but most beautiful way, I was reminded that even in the mess, there is meaning.

We still hope for justice, and we still hope for what was stolen to be returned. But we no longer live in the past—we are walking forward, stronger, with gratitude for where we’ve landed.

03/25/2025

Change is inevitable, and in 2025, we’re making some tough but necessary decisions at SFAR. We know that some of you will be on board with these changes, while others may not—and that’s okay. Growth requires tough conversations, and we’re here to have them.

For years, we’ve been doing the work to help horses in need, but now we’re shifting our focus to more responsible, long-term solutions that are aligned with our values. One of the biggest shifts you’ll see is that we are no longer supporting the “bailing” process from kill pens. You might be wondering if we’re done with rescuing horses, and the answer is no.

Over the past couple of months, we’ve been working on a collaboration with Amy Vanner at StarsSporthorses. Together, we’ve started laying the groundwork to bring new ideas and programs to life, and Amy’s knowledge and experience will help make these ideas successful.

This is by far one of the toughest decisions we’ve made, but here are some of the reasons behind it:

Ethical Concerns: By paying kill buyers to release horses, we’re indirectly funding an industry that profits from the suffering of horses. These buyers make money not only from slaughter but also from “selling” to rescues, perpetuating the cycle of exploitation.

Emotional Manipulation: The emotional appeal of “bailing” horses from kill pens is a powerful tool for fundraising. However, it’s important to recognize that this creates a false sense of urgency while continuing to support the kill buyer’s business. We want our efforts to be sustainable, not just an emotional reaction to a crisis.

Better Alternatives: Instead of perpetuating the kill pen cycle, we’re focusing our efforts on more proactive rescue initiatives. This includes our exciting new partnership Amy Vanner STARS Sporthorses, where we’ll be rescuing off-track Thoroughbreds and rehabilitating, restarting and retraining them. By doing this we’ll be able to provide these horses with second careers, and most importantly, a future beyond the threat of slaughter.

Stay tuned Village.

03/23/2025

Calling all former VOLUNTEERS & those of you looking for a volunteer opportunity!

We have a GARDEN SPOT! Now we just need some VOLUNTEERS to help us till it and get it ready! If you’re interested in helping us out, fresh veggies will be the reward!

Don’t have a green thumb? That’s ok because we have lots of volunteer opportunities for everyone!

If you are interested in volunteering, please leave us a comment and we will send the application to you!

So excited to have a place for our volunteers to gather and spend time with us again!

Peace & Love!

03/22/2025

If you had told me two years ago that I’d be standing here in the arena at STARS Sporthorses, teaching lessons and working toward my International Society of Rider Biomechanics instructor certification, I probably would have laughed. But here I am—literally living my dream.

Grateful doesn’t even begin to cover it. This opportunity is life-changing, and seeing the impact that Serendipity and STARS Sporthorses will have on our community and the lives of the OTTB’s makes it all the more meaningful. And of course, shoutout to Amy Vanner for believing in me and our vision.

Here’s to true serendipity!
Tonja 💜

03/20/2025

Ever wonder what 60 tons of sand looks like? Well, here is 60 tons and waiting on the final load!

The arena is in the final stages of its remodel. And we have openings for beginner- advanced riding students!

Book your intro lesson with Tonja Denise
and Amy Vanner at STARS Sporthorses

And so it begins…..

03/16/2025

Exciting Updates for The Teal Elephant Project & The Need for Intervention in Hamilton County!

You already know that BIG things are happening, and we’re thrilled to share some exciting revisions to The Teal Elephant Project!

As of 2025, The Teal Elephant Project seeks to enrich the lives of underserved youth through equine-based programs in partnership with Amy Vanner of STARS Sporthorses.
Our riding academy and summer camp provide a safe, supportive space for leadership, education, and personal growth, fostering independent thinking and problem-solving.

Committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we offer a refuge where youth can heal from past challenges, build confidence, and develop skills for a brighter future—empowered by the transformative connection with Off-the-Track Thoroughbreds.

✨ What’s New?
✅ A year-long commitment designed to build confidence, responsibility, and horsemanship skills.
✅ Scholarship-based sponsorships to help students cover the $3,800 program cost.
✅ Essential riding gear (helmet, boots, breeches, etc.) included in funding needs.
✅ A summer camp component to deepen learning and connection.
✅ Expanded fundraising efforts—seeking sponsors & donors to help us make this happen!

We’re so grateful for the support and can’t wait to bring this vision to life. If you’re interested in sponsoring a student, donating, or getting involved, reach out! Let’s build something incredible together.

To learn more about the impact that similar programs across the country are making or how to become a sponsor, please visit our GiveButter campaign here

https://givebutter.com/TealElephantProject

03/12/2025

Help Us Wish One of Our Founding Youth Ambassador’s a Happy 13th Birthday! How many birthday wishes can we get her?!?

In December 2021, a bright-eyed young girl walked onto our farm, completely unaware that Christmas Day would bring her an unexpected gift —a lease with the one and only Cinnamon Pearl, aka “Cinny.”

Back then, Jaycee had been riding at another facility for about a year but lacked the confidence to truly believe in herself, in or out of the saddle. But oh, how that changed! With Cinny by her side, she grew, she learned, and she SHINED!! We watched as she transformed from a timid rider into a young horsewoman with a heart full of determination.

Today, at 13, Jaycee is chasing new dreams, learning the ins and outs of barrel racing at one of our dear friend, Kristine’s nonprofit, Kozy Farms Ministry

From nervous beginnings to fearless turns around the barrels, her journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Jaycee, we are SO proud of you! Keep riding, keep believing in yourself, and always remember—you are SPECIAL, you are STRONG, you are ENOUGH, and you are capable of achieving all your dreams!

Grateful to spend another trip around the sun with YOU!

Love & Peace,
Your Serendipity Fam 🫶🏼

02/23/2025

🌟 Join the Serendipity Team! 🌟
Serendipity Horse Rescue is looking for two dedicated volunteers to help us grow our mission and make a bigger impact on the lives of our rescued horses and underserved youth in the community through The Teal Elephant Project.

We are seeking volunteers for the following positions:
1. Board Secretary
2. Fundraising, Marketing & Grant Writing Volunteer

These roles are essential in ensuring the success of Serendipity’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome horses, while also supporting The Teal Elephant Project—a community service initiative that provides underserved children access to riding academy, summer camps, and other enriching equine experiences. If you're passionate about animals, community outreach, or fundraising, we'd love to have you as part of our team!

Board Secretary
This key role will help ensure our board meetings run smoothly and that we maintain strong governance to support both Serendipity and The Teal Elephant Project.

Key Responsibilities:
-Record and maintain accurate minutes of Board meetings
-Coordinate meeting schedules and logistics
-Assist with organizational governance and compliance
-Collaborate with the Board and Executive Team to drive our mission forward.

What We’re Looking For:
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Passion for Serendipity’s mission and The Teal Elephant Project
- Previous administrative or governance experience (ideal, but not required).

Fundraising, Marketing & Grant Writing Volunteer
This volunteer will help raise awareness and funds to support Serendipity’s horse rescue efforts and The Teal Elephant Project, which provides access to horseback riding and summer camps for underserved youth.

Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in planning and executing fundraising campaigns and events
- Create and manage marketing materials and social media content
- Research and write grant applications to secure funding
- Collaborate with the team to brainstorm and implement creative outreach strategies

What We’re Looking For:
- Experience in fundraising, marketing, and/or grant writing (ideal, but not required)
- Creativity and an ability to think outside the box
- Passion for animal welfare and community empowerment
- Strong communication and organizational skills

Both positions are volunteer-based and offer a rewarding opportunity to help create lasting change for the horses, the youth, and the community.

📩 Interested? Please send a message or email us at [email] to apply or learn more about either position. Let’s make a lasting impact together!

02/22/2025

A Change in Our Rescue Policy & Procedures.

Change is inevitable, and in 2025, we’re making some tough but necessary decisions at SFAR. We know that some of you will be on board with these changes, while others may not—and that’s okay. Growth requires tough conversations, and we’re here to have them.

For years, we’ve been doing the work to help horses in need, but now we’re shifting our focus to more responsible, long-term solutions that are aligned with our values. One of the biggest shifts you’ll see is that we are no longer supporting the “bailing” process from kill pens. You might be wondering if we’re done with rescuing horses, and the answer is no.

Over the past couple of months, we’ve been working on a collaboration with Amy Vanner at StarsSporthorses. Together, we’ve started laying the groundwork to bring new ideas and programs to life, and Amy’s knowledge and experience will help make these ideas successful.

This is by far one of the toughest decisions we’ve made, but here are some of the reasons behind it:

Ethical Concerns: By paying kill buyers to release horses, we’re indirectly funding an industry that profits from the suffering of horses. These buyers make money not only from slaughter but also from “selling” to rescues, perpetuating the cycle of exploitation.

Emotional Manipulation: The emotional appeal of “bailing” horses from kill pens is a powerful tool for fundraising. However, it’s important to recognize that this creates a false sense of urgency while continuing to support the kill buyer’s business. We want our efforts to be sustainable, not just an emotional reaction to a crisis.

Better Alternatives: Instead of perpetuating the kill pen cycle, we’re focusing our efforts on more proactive rescue initiatives. This includes our exciting new partnership with Amy at StarsSporthorses, where we’ll be rescuing off-track Thoroughbreds and rehabilitating, restarting and retraining them. By doing this we'll be able to provide these horses with second careers, and most importantly, a future beyond the threat of slaughter.

So, as we announce that we will no longer be bailing horses, we also want to share what rescue will look like for SFAR moving forward. We’ll be working to intercept OTTBs (off-the-track Thoroughbreds) before they fall into the wrong hands or end up in a kill buyer’s pen. Amy is highly experienced in rehabilitating, restarting and retraining Thoroughbreds coming from the track. She has been a huge advocate for the breed and has several of her own that are wonderful ambassadors of the breed. It may sound easy, but giving these horses the best possible life after the track requires solid aftercare.

What will the horses’ new lives look like after they’ve been let down and retrained? I won’t go into too much detail right now, but our goal is to pair them with our Teal Elephant Project and STARS riding students. They’ll compete in schooling shows, rated/recognized shows, earn points in the TIP program (Thoroughbred Incentive Program) with a goal of having students accepted into and competing at the RRP (Retired Racehorse Project), become leasable to people who can’t commit to full-time horse ownership, and some will be placed into forever homes that will support their new vocations. We’re excited that both of our riding students will be working towards the ability to compete in the RRP in the future, showing the world just how incredible these horses are and giving them the future they deserve.

This decision reflects our commitment to rescuing with integrity, and we believe it will lead to more meaningful, lasting impacts—not only for the horses we serve but for the underserved in our community as well.

Stay tuned Village.

Image Credits : Peter W. from LIZardboy & STARS Sporthorses (OTTB “Shooter”; Jockey Club “Worth a Shot”.

Serendipity Farm & Rescue

04/23/2025

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