OUR MISSION

TEXAS HORSE RESCUE BANDERA TEXAS HERITAGE OAK RESCUE

Providing a forever home for horses in need.
Offering compassionate, hands-on rehabilitation.
Educating our community on horse care and wellness, through free basic horsemanship lessons.
Creating a safe, encouraging space for people to learn, grow, and connect with horses.

You Are Welcome Here!

Our ranch is a place where horses are honored, people are welcomed, and healing happens naturally. Whether you are supporting our herd through donations, volunteering your time, or simply visiting to learn more, you become part of this community.

Together, we are not just rescuing horses — we are building a community rooted in compassion, connection, and the resilient spirit of the Hill Country.

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ABOUT HERITAGE OAK RESCUE & REHABILITATION

Heritage Oak Rescue & Rehabilitation is more than a horse rescue — it’s a sanctuary of hope nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Founded by Emily Cristofich, Heritage Oak was born out of a love for horses and a belief that knowledge empowers individuals to alleviate suffering for equines, and all living beings.

Here, horses who have faced neglect, hardship, or uncertainty find more than shelter — they find a forever home. We have a closed herd, meaning the horses who arrive at Heritage Oak are not adopted out. Instead, they remain with us for life, receiving the care, nourishment, and love they deserve.

Horse Care & Wellness

Running a rescue is no small task. Every day, the herd depends on us for fresh hay, feed, clean water, hoof care, veterinary care, and the kind of hands-on attention that keeps them healthy in body and spirit. Each horse’s story is unique, but all of them share in the same promise: a safe place to heal and thrive.

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Basic Horsemanship Lessons

While Heritage Oak is first and foremost a safe haven for horses, it has also grown into a place of connection and learning for people. Emily Cristofich, the heart behind the rescue, is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where people gain confidence, develop new skills, and reconnect with themselves in the calming presence of horses.

The beginner-friendly horsemanship lessons are for adults and children ages 5 and up. There is no cost for the lessons. Donations are accepted but not required from anyone. We believe in educational equality and empowering the disadvantaged. Learn more here.

The basic information we teach will give participants the opportunity to learn first hand the great responsibility it is to own a horse and allow them to go into any discipline of the horseback riding sport with confidence. It’s not just about teaching horse care — it’s about building trust, patience, and resilience that carry far beyond the ranch.

APPLY HERE!

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Lessons Taught In 2025

The Team

At Heritage Oak Rescue, our team is united by a shared mission to create a calm, welcoming space where people and horses grow together. We foster an encouraging environment that blends practical skill with connection and compassion.