Our Story
I have always had a passion for horses, even as a child. When I was 10 years old, I spent full days helping at a local riding stable just for the chance to ride for one hour at the end of the day. By 14, I was working at a riding facility as the lead for trail rides and helping with any chores that were needed. I spent my weekends and summers there for about three years—learning firsthand what it truly means to care for horses.
At 28, I purchased my first horse, Sabrina—an Arabian mare I lost 6 years ago. I had her for 18 years, and I am the only person who has ever ridden her. She is incredibly special to me, and I love her dearly.
2001
I began working in animal welfare and cruelty services in Haldimand County, serving as an animal control officer and conducting cruelty investigations after receiving official Agent status through the OSPSA.
2007
I found the farm in Hagersville in the summer of 2007 and began turning a dream into reality. We moved to the farm in December 2007—and Whispering Hearts Horse Rescue officially began.
2008
In our first year, we brought in 42 horses, adopted 22 into good homes, and heartbreakingly had to euthanize 4 we couldn’t save. At the very least, they no longer suffered or went hungry.
2012/13
The winter of 2012/13 was our biggest challenge due to the racehorse industry fallout and a severe hay shortage. We took in 36 critical-care horses and had to turn away over 80. Hay prices tripled—what was normally about $8,000 a year became over $45,000.
Today
400+ Horses Rehomed
48-Acre Farm
1000+ Horses Helped
A Dream Built Into a Safe Place
We now operate on a 48-acre farm with a newer barn and arena. Our main herd has a 23-acre paddock, along with smaller paddocks we’ve built for horses who need more hands-on care. We continue to improve the property and expand as needs and resources allow.
We are not government-funded. The rescue is supported through community donation boxes, public donations, and fundraising. One of our most successful fundraisers was our rescue calendar—we printed 500 and sold every one. Dave and I both work full-time jobs to keep Whispering Hearts running.
How We Help:
• Rescue from auctions & owner surrenders
• Critical care + rehabilitation
• Training & assessment (6–8 weeks)
• Careful adoption matching + follow-up
• Support for enforcement removals/surrenders
Training and Support
We are supported by an amazing team including veterinarians, farriers, nutritionists and many more great professionals. I am a certified trainer, and I hold clinics for staff so that everyone is handling horses with the same method.
We use the Chris Irwin method, a non-resistance training approach based on communicating with horses in their language. It has been especially effective for many rescues who arrive fearful, shut down, or unsure of people.
Why We Do This
Basically, I have dedicated my life to helping horses. Some ask why people mistreat horses, and I respond by saying: "why do people mistreat dogs, cats, children, and each other? It exists everywhere—but we can all make a difference." I have chosen horses as my way of making that difference.
One of Chris Irwin’s sayings that has always stayed with me is: “Horses don’t lie.” They live in the moment and show you exactly what they feel—no hidden intentions like humans.
"Where the Whispers of Horses in Need Are Heard"
When I walk through an auction, their eyes feel like they're speaking - please help me. That is where I get my strength to carry on.
Brenda's Motto
- Brenda Thompson
Owner/Operator