SONOMA COUNTY CHANGE PROGRAM

Sonoma County CHANGE Program in Santa Rosa, CA

The CHANGE Program was established in 2007 to assist local law enforcement in managing equine humane cases, including neglect, abuse, abandonment, and relinquishment. CHANGE is a non-profit organization accredited at both state and federal levels. It operates independently of county agencies and relies entirely on private donations for support. CHANGE offers 24/7 emergency transportation and foster care for horses taken into custody by local law enforcement. All horses in the program receive comprehensive veterinary care, hoof care, specialized nutritional support, and essential care supplies, made possible by generous contributions to the CHANGE Tack and Supply Donation Program. Once rehabilitated, these horses are placed for adoption with loving families. In addition to its direct services, CHANGE engages the community through educational and outreach events. This includes training seminars for law enforcement on equine-related topics and low-cost castration clinics available to the public. CHANGE has also provided expert witness testimony in several courtroom cases, some of which set legal precedents and received national media attention. The vision of CHANGE is to enhance the standard of care for horses by serving as an agent of social change. Its mission is to support local law enforcement in equine cases through humane education and logistical and financial assistance. The organization is guided by core values that include transparency, accountability, professionalism, support for law enforcement, education, advocacy for horses, ethical leadership, and community service through innovative approaches. CHANGE aims to be a transformative agency that surpasses conventional methods and to establish itself as a sustainable and secure organization. In a region with over 20,000 horses, resources for those in law enforcement custody can be limited, making the unique needs of horses a logistical challenge, particularly during difficult economic times. However, since its inception, CHANGE has provided critical options and opportunities for horses in need. The organization offers housing, veterinary care, farrier services, and adoption support to horses in law enforcement custody. It has successfully rehabilitated many horses that entered the foster care program in dire conditions, leading to their adoption into caring homes. Additionally, CHANGE is committed to educating law enforcement and the community about proper horse care. Its efforts have contributed to establishing legal precedents through expert testimony in equine criminal cases. Equine veterinarian Grant Miller, who founded CHANGE after a tragic experience involving an emaciated horse, emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of abuse and neglect. He advocates for a comprehensive approach that begins and ends with legal enforcement, asserting that effective law enforcement can significantly improve the situation. CHANGE prioritizes the prevention of horse abuse and neglect by offering educational programs for law enforcement and the community to foster a better understanding of horse care and handling. Although it is a small organization relying solely on community donations, CHANGE demonstrates that substantial progress can be made through collective efforts. Miller notes, "We are taking a new approach to an old problem. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." The ongoing success of CHANGE is largely attributed to the strong support from the community. It is evident that community members are eager to contribute in any way they can. When they witness a horse in distress, they seek ways to help rather than feeling powerless. CHANGE empowers individuals with the tools they need to improve their neighborhoods for both animals and people. Donations are welcomed to help make a difference in the lives of horses in need and within the community.