About Us
About Us
The mission of the MSSPA is to protect the health and welfare of abused and neglected equines.
The Society uses its resources to provide direct care to animals who have suffered abuse. The Society promotes humane treatment, training, and use of animals through education and hands-on experiences. It collaborates with other animal-serving agencies to maximize the resources of all.
The MSSPA
- The MSSPA is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) private charitable organization and licensed animal shelter
- The organization is funded by a combination of donations, bequests, grants, and fundraising activities
- The Society does not charge for its shelter services and seeks no reimbursement from any public source
The Horses
- Horses are most commonly received by the MSSPA from Maine law enforcement officials
- Most of the animals in care at the Society have been abused or neglected
- The goal for each horse is rehabilitation and a new home
- If no suitable adoption is found, horses may live out their natural lives at the farm
The Care
- MSSPA horses receive the best veterinary and farrier care on site
- Dedicated staff and volunteers provide the daily care and love needed for the rescued horses to thrive
- Eligible horses receive professional training including ground work, riding and driving
Shamrock first arrived at the MSSPA in March 2022, surrendered to an Animal Control Officer due to severe neglect. He was so underweight and weak that standing and balancing for the farrier was a struggle, and staff had to help him stay steady.
After he regained his health at the MSSPA, Shamrock went to Horses with Hope in June 2022, where he received intensive, one-on-one training. He was adopted in October 2022. Through no fault of his own, Shamrock returned to the MSSPA two years later, in June 2024. After a short stay, he was adopted again in September 2024!
MSSPA History
The Society is unlike any other animal welfare facility in New England. Originally formed in 1872 to protect the horses who pulled Portland’s streetcars and fire engines, the Society now provides shelter services, has access to veterinary medical care, and maintains dozens of equines on its farm facilities. Learn more about the MSSPA’s history and help us celebrate 150 years of saving horses!
Society Leadership
Board of Directors
David Jefferson, DVM; John Lescure; Kevin Mahoney; Joseph McCarthy; Sawin Millett; Staci Nisbett; Jane Sheehan; Amy Starnes; Roger Timmons; John Trafton; Debbie Valenti; and Margaret Wheeler, LVT.
Officers
Jane Sheehan, President; Kathy Woodbrey, Vice President, Executive Director (non-voting); John Lescure, Treasurer; and Debbie Valenti, Assistant Treasurer
Advisory Council
Meris J. Bickford, Esq.; Peggy Cianchette; Jim Jaeger; Harold Pachios, Esq.; Sarah Strouss; and Amanda Woolford.
Of Counsel
Emily T. White
Financials
Our Accreditations
