Percherons: The Unsung Heros

At our farm sanctuary, we are committed to providing a safe, loving, and nurturing environment for rescued animals, including the incredible Percherons. These majestic horses have a rich history, particularly within Amish communities, where they have long been regarded as one of the most reliable and hardworking breeds. Percherons, with their gentle and docile nature, have earned their place as an iconic workhorse, and at our sanctuary, we’re honored to give them the second chance they deserve.

Ruby, our newest Percheron, arrived at our sanctuary after being rescued from a kill pen. Like many Percherons, she was at risk of being sent to slaughter because she was no longer deemed useful for work or breeding. However, at our sanctuary, Ruby and other horses like her find peace, medical care, and love, proving that these horses still have a lot to offer despite their past hardships.

The Percheron Breed: A Powerful Workhorse with a Rich History

The Percheron breed originates from the Perche region of France, dating back to the 1700s. Initially bred for war, these horses were used by French knights due to their strength, stamina, and ability to carry heavy loads. Over time, Percherons evolved into one of the most widely respected draft breeds, known for their versatility, work ethic, and calm temperament.

In the 19th century, Percherons were imported to the United States, where they became an essential part of farming life, especially in Amish communities. Amish farmers valued Percherons for their ability to handle hard labor, including plowing fields, pulling carts, and hauling heavy loads. The breed was preferred not only for their physical strength but also for their remarkable willingness to work in close harmony with humans.

Standing between 16.2 and 17.3 hands high (a hand is 4 inches, and a "hand" measurement is taken at the horse’s withers), Percherons can weigh between 1,900 and 2,600 pounds. This size, combined with their solid musculature, makes them perfect for heavy farm work. Despite their size, Percherons are known for being incredibly gentle and easy to handle, which is one of the reasons they are so beloved within Amish and farming communities.

Percherons: The Ideal Farm Horse

In addition to their impressive size, Percherons are incredibly versatile. While they are best known for their heavy draft work—such as plowing fields and pulling wagons—they also excel in other tasks. For example, many Percherons are used for logging, pulling carriages, and even participating in competitive draft horse pulling events. Their strong yet gentle temperament makes them ideal for these tasks.

Amish farmers still rely on Percherons for daily tasks on the farm, often preferring them over tractors and other modern machinery. This is due to their ability to work long hours in harsh conditions, as well as the fact that draft horses like Percherons don’t require fuel or expensive equipment maintenance. They also help maintain the connection between the land and the people who work it, keeping agricultural practices rooted in tradition.

Percherons: The Unsung Heroes of the Kill Pen

Despite their esteemed place in history and their indispensable role in farming, many Percherons find themselves in difficult situations. While still highly regarded in Amish communities, Percherons—especially those who are older or have worked for many years—are sometimes sent to kill pens, where they face the possibility of slaughter. These horses may have been deemed “past their prime” for farm work or have become less useful for breeding, and unfortunately, many end up in kill pens with little chance of finding a new home.

This is where our farm sanctuary comes in. At our sanctuary, we take in rescued Percherons, like Ruby, who have been saved from the brink of death. Our goal is to provide them with a safe haven where they can heal from past traumas and enjoy their lives in peace. These horses may no longer be able to work long hours in the fields, but they still have so much to offer. Many of our rescued Percherons go on to serve as therapy horses, companions, and even educational tools for the community.

The Importance of Supporting Percheron Rescues

Supporting a sanctuary that rescues Percherons and other horses is about more than just providing a safe place for these magnificent animals—it’s also about preserving their history and the role they have played in the development of agriculture and farming communities. Percherons are an irreplaceable part of our cultural heritage, and many still possess valuable traits that make them great companions and working animals.

By rescuing and caring for these horses, we also help protect the breed from becoming less common or even extinct in certain regions. When we provide a home for rescued Percherons, we offer them the opportunity to continue to live fulfilling lives, whether it’s by educating the public about their history or giving them a peaceful place to spend their days.

The Rescued Percheron Experience at Our Sanctuary

Here at the sanctuary, we focus on rehabilitation, comfort, and making sure that each rescued Percheron gets the individual care they need. Ruby, for example, is now thriving in an environment where she is treated with the love and respect she deserves. While she might not be working the fields as she once did, Ruby and the other Percherons at our sanctuary continue to provide an invaluable role as ambassadors of their breed—showing the world the power of rescue, resilience, and compassion.

Our work goes beyond simply caring for these horses; it is also about educating others on the importance of breed preservation, the ethics of animal rescue, and the value of giving horses like Ruby a second chance. When you support our farm sanctuary, you are not only helping to give rescued Percheron's a better life, but you are also contributing to the greater understanding of these remarkable animals and the vital role they’ve played in our history.

A Call for Compassion and Support

The Percheron breed, with its rich history as a hardworking draft horse and its gentle, calm temperament, is one of the most beloved and respected breeds in the world. Unfortunately, many Percherons end up in dire situations due to age or loss of utility. At our farm sanctuary, we are dedicated to rescuing these noble horses, like Ruby, and giving them the second chance they so richly deserve.

By supporting our sanctuary, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, you can help us ensure that more Percherons find the safety and care they need. Ruby and the other rescued Percherons remind us that these horses are more than just strong animals—they are survivors, companions, and a part of our collective heritage. With your help, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of these incredible animals and preserve the legacy of the Percheron breed for generations to come.