Her Love of Horses: A Passion Turned Career

Marika Ruppe's lifelong passion for horses has evolved into a fulfilling career dedicated to equine welfare. Growing up in the Kennebunks, she was always surrounded by horses, a love that would eventually take her across the United States.

Ruppe's journey into the equine industry began when she was hired by Larry Poulin, a renowned United States Equestrian Team member. Under his mentorship, she gained the confidence to become the first equine manager at the Libra Foundation's Pineland Farms Equestrian Facility. This role honed her skills in development, management, and leadership, paving the way for her own farm business and work with Equine Veterinary Services.

Her mission to protect horses intensified upon learning about horse slaughter, particularly in Maine, a port of entry for horses destined for slaughter in Canada. Many of these horses, healthy and young, were sold for the overseas horse meat market. Determined to make a difference, Ruppe founded an equine rescue funded by her farm business.

Ruppe's career took a significant turn when she joined The Humane Society of the United States, working in their Equine Protection department. Now, as an equine welfare consultant, she collaborates with the Native America Humane Society to develop programs that maintain healthy wild horse and burro populations through humane birth control and adoption initiatives.

Her advocacy efforts continue in Maine, where she proposed legislation to halt the transport and export of horses for slaughter. Although the bill initially failed, Ruppe remains committed to her cause, vowing to push for its passage.

To learn more about Marika Ruppe’s work and how to support equine welfare, visit Equine Welfare Consulting Services at www.equineme.com.

Originally posted by Sea Coast Online.