Amidst the rolling Flint Hills of Kansas, a sanctuary awaits where second chances echo in the gentle whinnies of rescued horses
Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue is a haven for forgotten souls and a training ground for tomorrow’s animal caretakers.
At the helm stands Karen Everhart, a woman whose heart beats in rhythm with the four-legged inhabitants of this refuge. Inspired by a single pony with neglected hooves, she started Rainbow Meadows in 2005, nurturing it into a sanctuary that has now embraced more than 1,000 horses.
Each whinny here is a testament to second chances, a melody of resilience amidst the rustling of the prairie.
But Rainbow Meadows is more than just a haven for troubled equines. It’s a chance for Kansas State University’s veterinary students to trade sterile classrooms for the open fields, learning from the best amidst the gentle neighs of their patients.
Hands-on experience
“Becoming involved with Rainbow Meadows has been invaluable for my education,” said Brynn Kennedy, a K-State veterinary student and volunteer at the rescue. “Working at the ranch has given me a unique opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-life situations.”
Through K-State’s partnership with Rainbow Meadows, students gain practical experience in diagnosing and treating equine health issues, shaping a future generation of veterinarians dedicated to excellence and compassion as they actively contribute to the care and rehabilitation of horses in need.
*Curated from Wildcat Veterinarian magazine, fall 2022 issue.
