Tickets on sale for horse rescue gala

SANTA ANA PUEBLO — The Tamaya Horse Rescue Program, a nonprofit organization located at the Stables at Tamaya on the Santa Ana Pueblo in New Mexico, announced tickets are now on sale for the Tamaya Horseshoes & Heels Gala, scheduled for Nov.29.

“The Tamaya Horse Rehabilitation Program raises funds to rescue and rehabilitate surrendered and neglected horses. It is dedicated to giving them a second chance and providing horses with all the support and resources they need to lead happy, healthy lives,” said Connie Collis, director of the Stables at Tamaya.

According to a release, the charity event will bring awareness to the “plight of unwanted horses” in New Mexico and raises funds for its ongoing efforts to rescue and rehabilitate animals in need.

Additionally, anyone who purchases a ticket or table to the gala by June 1 will receive one complimentary admission to the Rodeo at The Stables at Tamaya. The rodeo takes place at 7 p.m. every Thursday from June 12 to Aug. 21, except Aug. 7. The rodeo will feature local cowgirls and cowboys participating in traditional competitions seen on the national rodeo circuit, including barrel racing, team roping and more. The event also includes a stick horse race for children.

“We are thrilled to open ticket sales early for the 2025 Tamaya Horseshoes & Heels Gala and provide guests with a complimentary admission to the Rodeo at The Stables at Tamaya during the summer,” Collis said.

The money raised during the gala will be used for veterinary care, training, shelter and feed for the animals. Many of the horses that are part of the rehabilitation program participate in the rodeo.

The Tamaya Horseshoes & Heels Gala includes a cocktail reception, silent and live auction, three-course meal specially prepared for the event, and live music with dancing from the Austin Van band. Guests will also have the opportunity to be photographed with some of the rescued horses.

The release stated the Tamaya Horse Rescue Program has helped and rescued more than 350 horses. Thousands of horses are abandoned annually in New Mexico and several factors can lead to unwanted, abandoned or surrendered horses, including a horse’s decline in health or behavioral problems and the owner’s financial or physical hardships.

To purchase tickets and receive complimentary admission to the Rodeo at The Stables at Tamaya, visit TamayaHorseRehab.com/Events. For more information regarding the Tamaya Horse Rescue Program, contact Collis at 505-269-5410 or visit TamayaHorseRehab.com.