Nestled between the beautiful beaches of the Pacific Ocean on the west, and bordered by the Sierra de la Laguna mountains to the east is Los Sagrados (The Sacred Ones). This horse and donkey rescue, located in the small farming village of El Pescadero, south of Todos Santos, is a tranquil haven for horses in need.
Founded four years ago, this sanctuary has become a beacon of hope for abused, neglected, and abandoned horses, offering them a second chance at life in a safe and loving environment.
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Los Sagrados is committed to helping at-risk horses rise to their full potential in Baja Sur. The ranch is a retreat for transformation, creating healthy support and compassion for the animals. In turn, their stories help humans heal and the exchange creates awareness about the humane treatment of large animals in the community.
The sanctuary was established by Noel Bhavani Cianci, a lifelong horse enthusiast and advocate, with the vision to create a place where horses can heal physically and emotionally, free from the traumas of their past. Her dedication to equine welfare has driven this shelter’s growth which now spans over 5 acres.
Noel came to Cabo for the first time in 1995. She was a wardrobe stylist for 20 years in LA and on her first trip to the Baja peninsula, she saw some horses in very poor condition. This motivated her to bring medication and other medical materials every time she flew back here. After a while she ended up buying a piece of land close to a couple of farmers and ranchers and eventually moved to Mexico for good.
Originally from Philadelphia and the daughter of Italian immigrants, Noel and her brother used to stay at a small ranch every summer, where she started spending time with many large animals, including horses, where she believes her love towards them started.
Horses gave her a lot of empowerment, fearlessness and security. As a woman, this has always been the alchemy that has enabled her to create, heal and restore whatever blocks and fears in life she has had. Noel sees horses as magical animals.
Depending on breed, management and environment, the modern domestic horse has a life expectancy of 25 to 30 years. Uncommonly, a few animals live into their 40s and, occasionally, beyond. Sadly, the current conditions most horses are in have led these poor animals in the area to live even less than 10 years!
At Los Sagrados, each horse undergoes a comprehensive rehabilitation program tailored to their specific needs. Upon arrival, they receive immediate veterinary care, including necessary medical treatments and nutritional support. The sanctuary’s team of skilled caregivers works diligently to restore the horses’ health, addressing issues ranging from malnutrition to injuries and chronic conditions.
Beyond physical healing, the refuge places a strong emphasis on emotional rehabilitation. Many of the horses arrive with deep-seated fears and anxieties due to past abuse. Through gentle handling, positive reinforcement, and consistent routines, the staff helps the horses regain their trust in humans. Specialized training programs also assist in overcoming behavioral issues, enabling the horses to lead more fulfilling lives.
Los Sagrados operates largely through the support of its dedicated volunteers and the generosity of donors. Volunteers play a crucial role, offering their time and skills to assist with daily care, maintenance, and fundraising efforts. This place also hosts educational programs and workshops, fostering a sense of community and raising awareness about equine welfare.
Each horse at the ranch has a unique story of resilience and recovery. Take, for example, Luna, a filly that at only nine months of age was starved and abandoned, found tied to a tree, with deep bloody wounds on her back hind legs. With time, patience, and consistent care, Luna blossomed into a confident and spirited horse, now enjoying her days grazing in lush pastures.
Then there’s Habbibi, a quarter horse that was found nine years ago, after hurricane Odile. He had a sway back that was badly injured during a pack journey in the mountains. Now 13 years old, he loves to run, embodying loving kindness. He is a conscious leader of his herd who also gives kisses on demand. Habbibi is an example of regained strength and now serves as a gentle ambassador, participating in community outreach programs.
As Los Sagrados looks to the future, its mission remains steadfast: to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome horses and donkeys in need while advocating for greater awareness and compassion in the community. It aims to expand its facilities, enhance its rehabilitation programs, and continue its outreach efforts to educate the public on responsible care and the importance of animal welfare.
The ranch currently offers desert trail riding, equine therapy and riding lessons. Yes, Noel is also certified as an equine-assisted services giver! Horses have a strong sense of awareness and are natural healers, leading with intuition. In a non-judgmental space for people of all ages with physical and mental disabilities, autism, suffering from grief, depression, and substance and alcohol abuse, equine therapy helps them improve their lives through improved balance and coordination, increased self-confidence, and a greater feeling of freedom and independence.
For those inspired by the sanctuary’s mission, there are numerous ways to get involved: sponsorships and volunteer opportunities are always welcome, and every contribution helps ensure that more horses can find the refuge and care they deserve. They greatly depend on and appreciate the generosity of people like you and me and accept donations in various ways. Since Los Sagrados is a Mexican AC (Asociación Civil) – a non-profit organization, every donation is tax deductible.
As the famous poet, Pam Brown used to say: “Horses lend us the wings we lack”; so, let’s help give them those wings back by supporting this noble cause via:
Go Fund Me: https://gofund.me/5cf9d707 PayPal: bajarescuehorses@gmail.com Tax deductible USA 501-C3 through their northern sister: https://donorbox.org/prettyhorsesrescue (in the comments make sure to write – LS SUR
