Promoting the Humane Treatment of Hooved Animals
Vision & Mission
The Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization founded in 1971 by concerned and committed citizens. HAHS’s vision is a world where no hooved animal experiences abuse and neglect. The mission is to promote the humane treatment of hooved animals through education, legislation, investigation, and, if necessary, legal intervention (impoundment). In addition, we provide physical rehabilitation to animals that have endured severe neglect and abuse and adopt them out to loving forever homes.
Farm & History
HAHS was the first humane society established in the United States to focus specifically on large animals, primarily horses. Unlike small animals (dogs and cats), hooved animals had little representation until the Hooved Animal Humane Society was formed. In 1973, HAHS was the driving force behind the passage of “The Humane Care for Animals Act.” Through the Illinois Department of Agriculture, this Act gives HAHS the legal authority to investigate claims of abuse and neglect and intervene when owners do not comply with a notice to remedy a situation. The Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act is recognized as the legislative model for other states when drafting similar laws.
Since the organization was founded over 50 years ago, it has responded to thousands of calls requesting investigations of facilities housing horses in dire need of help. With the assistance and expertise of volunteer state-licensed investigators, we can respond to calls within a short period of time. HAHS provides hundreds of referrals throughout the United States each month.
With the 1996 release of the powerful expose “Big Lick Walking Horses,” HAHS has raised awareness of the unacceptable methods some trainers use in the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry. In addition, HAHS’s involvement in the controversy surrounding the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Wild Horse and Burro population control methods dates back to 1987. We have continued to offer alternative methods to control and protect the living monument.
Education
One of our key objectives is to focus on education to prevent abuse and neglect of hooved animals. Great strides have been made toward this goal, especially since 1995, when our Educational Center was completed. The Center has become a place where people can learn firsthand how to care for hooved animals properly. We regularly host seminars with equine professionals such as veterinarians, farriers, attorneys, and resistance-free trainers.
Because HAHS believes education is the key to preventing abuse and neglect of hooved animals, we also share educational information with the help of our state-licensed equine investigators. The investigators work with owners to help them understand how to provide for an animal’s needs.
Below are additional ways we provide education:
- Provide links to other animal health and humane organizations.
- Recommend books on animal health and humane animal care.
- Host informational events both on the farm and around the state.
- Produce newsletters and share content about animal health, legislation, and other related issues.
Advocacy
HAHS also acts as the hooved animal’s advocate or voice. We do this by supporting legislation in our state, other states, and on a federal level that protects the welfare of hooved animals. HAHS was instrumental in the passage of the original Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act in 1973.
Adopt
Every animal deserves a safe, loving home. These rescue animals are just waiting to fill your heart and home with love.
Rescue
If you suspect someone in your area is abusing or neglecting hooved animals, please contact us.
Volunteer
Do you want to make a difference? Contact us to learn more about becoming a part of our team.
donate
Help us make sure the rescued horses and other hooved animals are able to receive the care they need.
CYNTHIA GLENSGARD
Cynthia worked as a consultant for HAHS for approximately three years before becoming the Executive Director. Along with her passion and dedication to animal welfare, she brings a strong business background and an in-depth knowledge of the HAHS mission, and she understands and shares our vision for the future. She enjoys spending time with her family, taking her dogs on walks, and working with her horses.
Ann McCombs, MS, DVM,
Dr. Ann E. McCombs went to Iowa State University for her undergraduate degree in Animal Science, her Master’s degree in Reproductive Physiology, as well as her DVM. Ann has additional equine veterinary training from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of California at Davis. She has been an equine veterinarian for almost 30 years, has had her own practice for 25 years, and has worked with HAHS equines during that entire time. Ann enjoys competitively driving her horse, competitive mounted orienteering, endurance riding/driving and schooling and conditioning her equines and her Rottweilers. Dr. McCombs is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the Illinois Equine Practitioners Association, the Unwanted Horse Coalition, and the HUB Club (driving horses).
Fran Snow
Fran, a former Chicago banking executive and life-long horse owner and competitor has faithfully served on the Board of Trustees for many years, previously as our Treasurer and now as our Chairman. In addition she has been a long-time HAHS volunteer, staff member and supporter. Fran's wealth of horse knowledge and experience with HAHS' events helps guide the organization.
Hillary Kelly
Hillary has been affiliated with HAHS since 2005. She has a degree in Equine Studies and started her career with HAHS as a summer intern. Upon graduation, she became a HAHS employee and team member, and eventually transitioned into a full-time Program Director. Hillary was also licensed as an Approved Humane and Equine Investigator with HAHS and managed our investigations program during her time here. Hillary took her skills and interests in investigations and law enforcement to a new level - - she is a retired Chicago Police Officer. Her interest in justice and equines, as well as her vast experience with all levels of HAHS makes her uniquely qualified as a HAHS Board Member.
Brad Andrews
Brad is a highly regarded trainer and clinician that helps riders develop their horsemanship skills in all disciplines. He grew up on a South Dakota ranch that he and his family still live on today. Brad broke his first colt at the age of 10 and shortly after began helping people and horses understand how to communicate harmoniously. He fine tuned his skills and techniques under the guidance of Buster McLaury. With the support of his family, Brad continues to run a working ranch and travels the states to train and clinic. HAHS is grateful to have his assistance in helping our horses develop trust and find their forever homes.
Cody Christensen
Cody Christensen is the Owner/Operator of Farm Way Fencing located in Kingston, IL. He started his working life at a very young age on his family’s farm. At 15 years old, he started a working as a ranch hand riding cutting horses and building fence. After taking a job to manage a large horse boarding facility, he started running and managing his own herd of cattle. In 2016, he founded Farm Way Fencing. Cody regularly volunteers his time at the HAHS farm and provides valuable guidance on farm operations.
Mary Beth Holsteen
Mary Beth is Realtor/Real Estate Broker at Baird Warner Barrington who specializes in equestrian properties. She is a lifelong equestrian that currently owns two horses and a pony. Mary Beth has a rich volunteer history serving as a board and/or committee member in several equestrian associations. For fun she enjoys trail riding, drill team, and working equitation events.
quandee p. Semrow
Quandee Semrow has a B.S. from Loyola University, Chicago, and a J.D. from IIT Chicago-Kent School of Law. She has worked for the Cook County Public Defender office for many years, and is presently in the Forensic Sciences Division. Quandee has been riding since she was a child. Quandee has worked in every aspect of animal rescue for the past 20-plus years, and has volunteered at HAHS events and horse fairs. She has managed donation aspects and adoption events for organizations like Petco Chicago Animal Care Control (CACC), ACC, and for Chicago English Bulldog Rescue, among others.
