Esperanza Equina was born from a deep love for horses and a commitment to giving them a second chance. What started as a simple act of rescue quickly became a mission—to provide neglected and at-risk horses with safety, healing, and a forever home. With each horse we save, we see the power of hope, resilience, and the incredible bond between humans and animals. Our journey is one of compassion, dedication, and the belief that every horse deserves a life filled with love and dignity. The horses live in their natural habitat as a herd and as they should be.
How did this come about?
Found in the serene landscapes of Valle Hermoso, just minutes from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Esperanza Equina found a home from a shared passion for horses and a deep commitment to their well-being.
The land, generously donated by Pablo Hermoso de Mendoza, provides a sanctuary where rescued and retired horses can live freely, with dignity and care.
Pablo’s deep passion for horses has been a hallmark of his remarkable career. Renowned for his exceptional horsemanship, he forms a seamless bond with each horse, moving as one with them in perfect harmony. Now, as he steps into retirement, he brings that same dedication to his new project, Valle Hermoso, where he remains committed to the care and wellbeing of horses. Valle Hermoso is a thoughtfully designed equestrian community where families, homes, nature, and animals come together in harmony. Created by renowned architects and landscape designers, the space is crafted to foster connection, wellbeing, and a vibrant sense of life. To inquire further about Valle Hermoso click here.
Thanks to Pablo’s generosity, Esperanza Equina finds sanctuary.
After witnessing the dire need to rescue horses, Stephanie Richmond organized and now operates Esperanza Equina exclusively for charitable purposes as a non-profit 501(c)(3) and is dedicated to rescuing and retiring horses in need, providing them with a proper environment and care.
In return the horses can give back by being available to their human caretakers giving gentle Equine therapy to humans in need.
Esperanza Equina rescuing, transforming and healing humans and animals.
Stephanie’s vision became reality thanks to the Hermoso family who opened their doors to donating the space that is needed to care for these equine souls.
Pablo Hermoso de Mendoza
Stephanie Richmond, a Family Constellation Therapy Facilitator, discovered the profound healing presence of horses through her therapeutic work.
After years of facilitating Family Constellation groups in Austin, Texas, she returned home to Mexico, and began incorporating horses into her therapeutic practice. Along this journey, she witnessed heartbreaking cases of horse abuse and neglect - making it painfully clear that a safe haven for at-risk hoses was not just important, but urgently necessary.
When Stephanie’s vision aligned with Pablo’s mission, Esperanza Equina was born. More than just a sanctuary, it is a place where rescued horses find peace and, in return, offer their wisdom and healing energy to those seeking transformation.
At Valle Hermoso, these horses are not only given a second chance—they become part of a greater purpose, supporting individuals on their path to emotional and systemic healing.
The sanctuary is open to serve as a wellness retreat, offering diverse therapeutic experiences in a breathtaking natural setting. Here, the bond between humans and horses is honored, and every soul—equine and human alike—has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive.
Stephanie Richmond
Let your heart decide