Rio Verde Animal Rescue
My name is Donna Jackson and I am the founder of Rio Verde Animal Rescue. I am so happy that you have chosen to visit our website.
Rio Verde Animal Rescue has been a dream of mine for many years and has finally begun to take shape with the help of many fabulous people who have dedicated time, knowledge, and most of all mentoring.
Our story begins with a miniature donkey and an awesome father. Let me explain how my dreams are coming true…
As a lifelong animal lover, I had always dreamed of starting an animal rescue. My aging parents both encouraged me and it was my father who started building the necessary corrals, shades, fences, mare motels, chicken coops, and goat pens. He also researched and assisted in filing to form a corporation in 2012 and then began to work on the establishment of becoming a non-profit organization.
Now the miniature donkey part…..
I live in a rural area and it is a bit of a walk to the mailbox. In February 2010, I walked down to check the mail and I find Tomasito. Tomasito is a beautiful miniature donkey. He was alone with no human friend to be found and of course we made friends instantly.
He began following me as I headed back to the house. Tomasito obviously belonged to someone so it was important that I help him find his owner. We posted pictures around the neighborhood and went door-to-door looking for his home. In the meantime, Tomasito is kicking back in the new corrals, having dinner and playing with the dog. We were successful at getting Tomasito home that same evening. It turns out that his owner, a very lovely lady name Lynn, runs a rescue for miniature donkeys. She was very grateful to have Tomasito back. We chatted; I shared my story and she wanted to help. She put me in touch with Nancy. Nancy runs a domestic animal rescue and she is amazing.
And so, the rescue was born. I began receiving calls within the week and we took in our first two horses in November of that year. We are now at 4 horses, 2 goats, 6 hens, and 2 roosters.
My father passed away in December of 2012 but the dream continues through my mother, myself, and all the supporters of Rio Verde Animal Rescue.
