The Texas 30
In early June 2026, Beyond The Roses Equine Rescue faced a challenge unlike any it had taken on before. Twenty-four broodmares, all from Martin Grotheer’s farm, arrived at the Panhandle Kill Pen. Some were tattooed; others were not. The untattooed mares were supposed to go to a recipient farm, while the others were posted for bail on Facebook. With only five days before they were scheduled to ship to Mexico, BTRE knew it could not let that happen and began fundraising to save them. Thanks to the support of our community, we raised the funds needed to bring them to safety.
The remaining 13 mares were intended for a recipient farm, but when that placement fell through, the kill pen made them available with only three days before shipping. Because all 24 mares came from the same farm, we felt compelled to help the entire group, and our supporters once again made that possible. Five other Thoroughbreds at the lot also needed help, so BTRE stepped in for them as well. We arranged for Rhi Rasmussen, our quarantine farm, to pick up the horses and bring them to the farm. During the final pickup, one mare was found to be gravely ill and unlikely to survive the trip, so she was humanely euthanized at the lot. While all this was happening, another one of Grotheer’s mares showed up at the Stroud Kill Pen. BTRE also stepped up to help her.
The Jockey Club was very helpful in identifying these mares. Only one still needs DNA testing to confirm her identity. The group ranges in age from 2 to 27 years old, and all are currently in quarantine turnout and settling in well. Because a few mares developed strangles and have been separated from the herd, BTRE has extended quarantine until mid-August. All horses will be vaccinated, courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim, and will receive farrier care and microchips. Adoption fees have been waived for approved, loving homes, but adopters must provide transportation. These mares are retired and may not be used for breeding.
If you would like to provide one of these horses a good home, please fill out the Adoption Application at the link below or contact BTRE at 586-321-6780.
