About Us

Southwest Florida Horse Rescue was founded in 2010 by Tina Garrett and Matt Venaleck, who believed that every animal deserves a chance at a happy, healthy life. What began on five acres of land with four horses, three dogs, and two people delivering packages for FedEx has grown into a mission of compassion for horses once considered “throw-aways.”

Tina and Matt were longtime animal lovers, often taking in abandoned pets and supporting national charities. But after experiencing the frustration of not knowing where their donations were really going, they decided to focus closer to home. Right in their own community, horses were being given away on Craigslist with heartbreaking phrases like “don’t want it no more” or “just come and get’em.” They knew they couldn’t ignore the need in their own backyard.

Partnering with a fellow rescuer, they began small—rescuing two horses at a time and giving them the care, respect, and love they deserved. Their simple belief guided everything: these animals did not ask to be in these situations, and it was their responsibility to help.

Today, that same belief drives SWFHR forward. With every horse we rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome, we carry forward a promise: to stand up for those without a voice and to show them that kindness, not neglect, defines their worth.