**Local Rescue Group Steps In as Beloved Children’s Farm Closes, Ensuring Safe Futures for Miniature Horses**
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In a poignant development for the community, a cherished children’s farm and performing animal park located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is set to close its doors after more than five decades of operation. The Land of Little Horses, established in 1971, has long been a favourite for families, offering attractions such as pony rides and pig races. However, the owners announced their retirement in December, stating that they had not found a buyer to take over the beloved attraction, resulting in the decision to auction off their collection of miniature horses and other animals.
As preparations for the auction, scheduled for February 28, continue, local non-profit organisation Fox Lea Mini Horse Rescue is stepping up to ensure that the animals find secure and loving homes. The executive director of the rescue, Patricia Milligan, is leading the charge to safeguard the 35 miniature horses, as well as mini donkeys, ponies, and mature horses that have been part of the farm for years.
Milligan expressed her deep concern for the welfare of these animals, especially those with special needs. “When I did an examination of the minis that were there, they had a lot of older ones, and some have health challenges, as well as behavioural issues,” she explained. “There are also several bonded pairs that have lived together for most of their lives, and we want to ensure they remain together.”
The auction poses risks for these vulnerable animals, especially given the possibility that bidders might purchase them cheaply only to resell them. Milligan noted that Fox Lea Mini Horse Rescue does not intend to enter the auction to outbid others but instead wants to create a safety net for any animals that do not find permanent homes during the auction process. “We’ve had many that come to us that have been through three or four or five auctions before we end up getting a hold of them, and that’s very difficult for them,” she mentioned.
In addition to the animals, the auction will feature various items affiliated with the farm, including tractors, construction materials, and picnic tables. The farm is planning a public preview of both the animals and the associated items on February 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the auction commencing the following morning at 8:30 a.m.
Fox Lea Mini Horse Rescue is actively fundraising to prepare for any eventualities that might arise after the auction. They have set a goal of raising £5,000 to ensure that they can provide proper care for any of the horses that may end up needing a home post-auction. Milligan expressed her hopes, stating, “In an ideal world, I’ll take them all. Our goal is to make sure that the vulnerable minis that are there end up in a safe place.”
The farm has seen a long-standing relationship with the community, offering families an opportunity to connect with animals in a joyful and educational environment. Its closure leaves a significant gap for many who cherished the experiences provided by The Land of Little Horses, and the decision to auction off the animals is a bittersweet turn in its legacy.
As the auction date approaches, community members and animal lovers are encouraged to participate and consider adopting from the rescue, should any horses remain unsold. Milligan emphasised the importance of finding suitable homes, stating, “If they can end up with families who love them and are prepared to care for them, that’s fabulous.”
As this chapter comes to a close for the Land of Little Horses, the commitment of Fox Lea Mini Horse Rescue shines as a reassuring beacon. The organisation’s mission to care for and find homes for vulnerable animals aligns closely with community values, showcasing the spirit of compassion and dedication that defines the region. The hope remains that each miniature horse will find its forever home, filled with love and care, as they transition into this new phase of their lives.