The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has distributed financial grants to more than 30 equine rescue groups. The grants were made possible by a horseback riding fundraiser organized by the American Competitive Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) this summer.

The "Ride for the Rescues" was a Guinness Book of World Record-breaking event comprised of 50 trail-riding competitions held across the country on one day in June 2010. About 1,700 horses and riders participated in the event, raising nearly $70,000 to benefit the HSUS' work with horse rescues and sanctuaries. Proceeds benefited rescue groups in 24 states.

"We thank the American Competitive Trail Horse Association for recognizing our work with the horse rescue community and dedicating their charity event to support the needs of these organizations," said Keith Dane, HSUS' director of equine protection. "It is our hope that the funds distributed will bolster equine rescues' tireless efforts to save horses and offer them a second chance at life."

There are nearly 600 equine rescues and sanctuaries operating in the United States that rehabilitate neglected and abused horses, secure new adoptive homes, or provide them with lifetime care. As with other nonprofit organizations, horse rescues rely heavily on donations to assist these animals