Extreme Barn Makeover:
BEFORE & AFTER
When we look back at where this project began, it’s almost hard to believe how far we’ve come. Just a few months ago, our ranch was a patchwork of temporary fencing panels — many wired together, many rusted through, and none designed to withstand the strength or spirit of playful Thoroughbreds. Shade was scarce, and the Arizona sun was relentless. When one of our few shade structures collapsed during a storm, it was a frightening reminder that our horses deserved better than quick fixes and temporary solutions.
That moment became the turning point. It sparked the vision for the Extreme Barn Makeover – Thoroughbred Edition, a project rooted in safety, dignity, and the legacy of our founder, Dannielle Marturana. She believed every retired racehorse deserved a safe haven, and this makeover became our way of honoring that promise.
BEFORE
A Transformation Worthy of Our Thoroughbreds!
Today, the transformation is nothing short of extraordinary. The new permanent stalls stand strong and beautiful — cemented in, shaded, secure, and built to last for decades. They are everything our horses needed and everything Dannielle dreamed of. Walking through the ranch now feels different. It feels hopeful. It feels safe. It feels like the future.
Thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised $36,500 toward this project. And because of a remarkable pledge from one of our board members, the remaining amount was covered — ensuring every donated dollar went directly to the horses.
This makeover is more than a construction project. It is a testament to what love, community, and shared purpose can build. And it is only the beginning of what we will accomplish together.
AFTER
What We Do
Our goal is to prepare the horses for new adoptive homes. The majority of our horses have recently retired from the track, but we also have received horses from the AZ Dept of Agriculture and from people who can no longer care for their ex-racehorse.
We are here to give them a second chance – it’s what we do!
How We Do It
Each former racehorse that enters our aftercare program goes through an extensive 3-step process:
1. Reconditioning
Reconditioning for a retired racehorse is all about helping the horse transition from a racing career to a new life. It focuses on both physical and mental aspects. When the horses first arrive, they are given time to adjust and settle in.
2. Retraining
Racehorses are trained for racing, and they need to learn new skills to adapt to different disciplines. This retraining involves teaching them new gaits for dressage, jumping, or simply getting comfortable being handled and ridden for pleasure.
3. Re-homing
We meticulously screen potential adopters, ensuring a perfect match based on experience, lifestyle, and expectations. Adoptive families receive ongoing support and guidance, helping them build a successful and lasting bond with their new equine companion.
Who We Are
After The Homestretch AZ is dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of former racehorses.
Our aftercare program focuses on reconditioning, retraining, and re-homing these magnificent animals, providing them with the opportunity for fulfilling post-racing lives.
We also offer ongoing support and advocacy to ensure the continued welfare of these horses.
Charitable Foundations & Sponsors
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the following charitable foundations and sponsors. We would not be able to carry out the work we do without their grants and assistance.
