Grand Illusion Horse Rescue, Inc.
The inspiration for Shepherd Farm came in 2000 when we bought Grand Illusion (1982-December 5, 2009). At that time, we thought we were buying a 12 year old Thoroughbred riding horse who was slightly “over at the knee.” In truth, we had acquired an incredibly sweet but incredibly lame 20 year old with degenerative joint disease. Grand Illusion or Luge immediately became our first retiree, and the founding member of the Grand Illusion Horse Rescue, Inc. Since then, we have learned the virtue of the pre-purchase as opposed to the post-purchase vet exam!
We have also learned the many contributions that a needy horse can make to the Farm even though he cannot be ridden. At Shepherd Farm, Luge was the weaning buddy for all our fillies. He had such a wonderful temperament that he could be turned out in the pasture with any horse and keep the peace. He was the ambassador of the Farm for all girl scout visits and company events where non-“horse people” wanted to pet or learn how to groom a horse and we trusted that Luge would stand quietly and gently nuzzle all newcomers for attention and treats.
Our experience with Luge opened our eyes to the many horses who are discarded often when they are most in need of rescue and rehabilitation. In 2003, we incorporated The Grand Illusion Horse Rescue, Inc. as a Maryland 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. The Rescue’s mission is to rescue and rehabilitate horses from three sources: off-the-track thoroughbreds, PMU mares and foals, and BLM mustangs and burros. We also take in an occasional horse in need from a county humane seizure or an auction after appropriate quarantine.
Over the years many other horses have joined Grand Illusion at the Rescue. While most have since gone on to find wonderful adoptive homes, some, because of their special needs, have become permanent residents here at Shepherd Farm. Please contact us if you would be willing to sponsor one of our permanent residents. Support is always needed and appreciated.
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Shepherd Farm 
