Volunteer

“It’s a horse rescue, but we’re also a people rescue… We see people change their lives after being here…There’s a reason they all come here to volunteer again and again. We rescue horses and they rescue us right back.” - Gina Hluska, President / Founder

Would you like to join our team?

Elite Equine CO Rescue volunteers are vital to the success of the mission. We currently have volunteer opportunities available and are grateful for your expertise and time! We are also excited to support the next generation by offering internship opportunities for equine science and veterinary students.

Volunteer Opportunities Currently Available: grant writer, fundraiser, and media production/photography. We currently do not have opportunities available to support the daily care of the horses, but please submit a volunteer application below and we will contact you for an interview when a position comes available in that capacity.

Group Volunteer Work Days: We welcome group volunteer days for businesses or organizations, and periodically host work days to help with facility maintenance. Contact our volunteer coordinator to schedule or inquire for your group! New volunteers must read the safety requirements and sign the liability release form prior to coming on the property.

Click this hyperlink for the Volunteer Application. We are excited to meet you!

The horses here at Elite Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation have various backgrounds and are individuals. Therefore, their temperaments are not always predictable. This does not necessarily mean that these horses are mean or dangerous, but it does mean that members of EERR and boarders alike should always be aware of their surroundings while working on premises around horses. Everyone on the premises must take the proper precautions to avoid accidents and ensure the safety of volunteers, owners, and horses alike. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask.

Unpaid Internship Opportunity-Equine Science & Veterinary Students/Graduates

Internship Overview

This unpaid internship offers valuable real-world experience for equine science and veterinary students and graduates. Interns will work closely with experienced staff and veterinarians to support daily operations, horse rehabilitation, and care.

What Sets This Internship Apart

  • Direct exposure to equine medical cases, rehabilitation, and welfare work

  • Mentorship from experienced equine osteopath professionals and veterinary partners

  • Involvement in real rescue and recovery cases—not simulations

  • A structured experience designed to strengthen veterinary school experience

  • Strong letters of recommendation for top-performing interns

    What Sets Us Apart

    Elite Equine CO Rescue is supported by a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team from Elite Equine CO Rehab lead by Gina Hluska (EDO, CEKP, CELT, CEMT, CTPT, VT) with specialized expertise in equine rehabilitation and recovery. Interns benefit from exposure to a wide range of professional skill sets, including support from individuals certified in:

    • Equine Osteopathy

    • Certified Equine Massage Therapy

    • Certified Equine Kinesiology

    • Certified Laser Therapy

    • Certified HaloTherapy with ChromoTherapy

    • Acupuncture

    • Chiropractic (performed by DVM Melanie Robinson with Equine Health Services)

    • Cryotherapy

    • Equine Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF)

    • MPS Therapy

    • Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

    • Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)

    • MPS Scar/Adhesion Release Therapy

    • Acupressure

    • Myofascial Release

    • Certified Equine Welfare & Management

    • Certified Animal-Assisted Therapy

    • Certified Equine Psychology

    • Certified Veterinary Assistance

    • Veterinary Tech

    • Professional Equine Training for rehabilitation reconditioning

    This collaborative environment allows interns to gain a deeper understanding of holistic equine care, rehabilitation, and welfare-based veterinary support.

Core Responsibilities

  • Observe medical treatments, intake exams, and rehab plans

  • Monitor horse health, behavior, and recovery progress

  • Assist in maintaining detailed care and medical records

  • Contribute to welfare initiatives and educational outreach

Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an equine science, animal science, or pre-veterinary program

  • Strong interest in equine welfare and veterinary care

  • Willingness to perform physical tasks and work outdoors

  • Reliable, responsible, and eager to learn

Schedule & Duration
Flexible scheduling options available.

Location
Elite Equine CO Rescue & Rehab 1670 Spring Valley Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80921

Compensation
This is an unpaid internship. However, the experience, mentorship, and professional references are designed to provide substantial long-term career value. Depending on your program, this opportunity may qualify for credit with your university; we are happy to speak with them to coordinate.

How to Apply

  • Resume and college information

  • Brief statement of career goals and interest in equine veterinary work

  • Relevant experience (academic, volunteer, or professional)

Selected applicants may be invited for an interview. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Please email the above information to eers.outreach@gmail.com. We look forward to you joining the team!