Animal Welfare starts when we interact with animals – and experience the joy they give us in return

A.W.E.S.O.M.E.

ANIMAL WELFARE EDUCATION / SUPPORTING OUR METROPOLITAN EQUINES

Horses are living links to our history and the natural world. They have an innate ability to inspire awe and wonder. 

AWESOME is a non-profit charitable organization that enables city kids to meet and learn about these gentle giants – and take free carriage rides through Central Park. During this unique educational experience, kids learn about the different breeds of horses, their physical and mental attributes, the evolution and domestication of horses, and the roles horses have played throughout history: carrying knights into battle, plowing fields on the frontier, helping build New York City, serving as therapy animals, and much more. It’s an experience many city kids would otherwise not have the opportunity to enjoy.

Students also are invited to the main stable to observe equine veterinarian Dr. Gabriel Cook and his staff check on the health and welfare of the horses. This is hands-on experience and interested students can check a horse’s heartbeat, respiratory rate, and other health characteristics. There is a national shortage of equine veterinarians in the United States – and one of our goals is to encourage students to pursue careers as veterinarians, veterinary technicians, or one of the other many other professionals involving the care of animals.