MVHR Response to COVID-19
Dear MVHR Community;
At Mountain Valley Horse Rescue, we are dedicated to providing a safe place in the world – for both the animals and the people we meet. While it saddens us, we know the right thing to do while we are in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic is to protect our volunteers and staff who are dedicated to caring for our animals. And we know that this decision also serves our greater community.
The Board and Staff at MVHR has been in near constant conversation to assess risks and develop management strategies to address each of them.
As of today, Saturday, March 14, all group MVHR programs will be temporarily suspended through April 7. This includes Mini Horse Heroes and Community Volunteer Day. We will reassess events and conditions at the end of the month, and make a determination at that time regarding programs farther in the future. We are re-allocating all of our people power to the care and companionship of the rescued equines who depend on us.
Our facility will remain open, and staff and trained volunteers will continue to provide care for the animals, as well as enhanced cleaning of shared physical spaces. Fortunately, the vast majority of our work is outside and in wide open spaces where personal distance is very manageable.
We understand that with so many other facilities and activities completely shut down, individuals might be inspired to visit the ranch, especially to connect with the horses who provide such comfort during times of stress. MVHR will do our best to continue to make individual visits to the ranch and horses possible. However, we must ask three things of those of you considering a visit:
-First, we ask that anyone with any symptoms, possible exposure to the virus, or in high risk groups, not consider a visit at this time, for the health of the MVHR and broader community.
-Second, we ask that all visitors to the ranch take precautions recommended by the CDC such as “social distancing” (refraining from shaking hands, for example); frequent, thorough hand washing and use of hand sanitizer with an alcohol content of 60% or higher; and avoid touching the face and mouth area. We also suggest using bleach disinfectant (such as Clorox wipes) to clean areas such as steering wheels of cars that are frequently touched.
-Third, we ask that you call (970-653-0185) or email (info@mvhr.net) before coming out, so that we might schedule any individual visits and best protect the safety of our staff and volunteers while they dedicate themselves to their primary mission of caring for the animals.
We thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this challenging time for our community. With compassion and thoughtfulness, we can all protect and support one another during this difficult time. The resilience of our amazing community will help us through these challenges, and we look forward to throwing open the gates of the ranch, and embracing our community again soon. Until then, be well and take care of one another!
Shana M Devins
Executive Director
Mountain Valley Horse Rescue