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Debra West is a seasoned professional and horsewoman with an authentic love for animals and a true passion for protecting the vulnerable. She acquired the property known as Liberty Ranch in 2015 and lovingly developed it with her husband, Scott Horner, creating an infrastructure to accommodate animals in need. This was the foundation of Liberty Sanctuary which she founded in 2022 after identifying America's most vulnerable equines as a population in great need of relief, protection and advocacy. 92.3% of equines sent to slaughter are mostly healthy according to the USDA.
“Our goal is to improve the lives of America's most vulnerable equines. We do that by rescuing some from the slaughter industry and advocating for enhanced equine protections on a national level. The animals we rescue are transported to our Utah ranch where we work to build trust so they can have a chance at fulfilling lives. We are on the horse’s timetable – trust is built slowly and steadily. The eventual goal is to rehome most into qualified and caring forever homes,” Debra explained. “The American Equine is an icon of freedom, a partner in developing this country. We owe the horse a lot and the mistreatment and slaughter of these gracious animals is abhorrent and simply must end.”
Always an animal lover, Debra moved to Utah from the east coast over 20 years ago where she left a career in marketing. She has enjoyed working for companies like Warner Records, BMG, Viacom, Sony Music, Mark Burnett Productions and Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. She has also contributed to a variety of local nonprofits before launching Liberty Sanctuary. Debra is an enthusiastic and versatile professional and has had the opportunity to work with a range of respected colleagues from artists to C-suite executives.
At home in the mountains, Debra enjoys life with her husband and animals, skiing, photography and exploring the American West. debra@libertysanctuary.org
Ashley Dudas is a student of The Horse. Specializing in Equine Behavior and Psychology, with a solid background in Natural Horsemanship, as well as young horse training and development. Ashley started her career with horses in the English Performance World, when she met a horse who demanded she change her approach entirely. At first she thought the horse was the problem…as it turns out, the horse that changed her life was just terrified of the world, and completely misunderstood. Once Ashley’s eyes were opened to the world of Horsemanship as an Art Form, the relationship with her first Super Horse was saved. Ashley is dedicated to helping horses and the humans who love them reach their full potential. Her passion is to help individuals develop the habits and skills they need to effectively communicate and understand their equine partners and achieve the level of horsemanship and partnership they are dreaming of! Ashley decided to move to Utah with her fiancé, Chance, and her horse Romeo exclusively to work with Liberty’s horses and people. Ashley offers in-person training to the public and online at TheSavvyEquestrian.com.
As a child, Alesia had the pleasure of owning a horse and dogs which fostered her love for animals and the great outdoors. It’s her outgoing personality, love for animals, our mountain environment and people that have made Lesi stand out at Liberty Sanctuary. Her positive attitude, determination, care for the rescues and the people here have made her a perfect team leader for volunteers to emulate. Alesia and her family recently made beautiful Heber City their home with the incredible opportunity to purchase and reside in her beloved grandparents' house which holds cherished memories from her childhood. In her free time, you'll find Lesi spending time with her husband and two amazing children or exploring the enchanting trails of nature accompanied by her loyal canine companion. These scenic hikes connect Lesi to the mountains and replenish her soul. Alesia immensely values quality time with her family and friends, enjoying memorable moments and fostering connections. She has always strived to maintain a positive and uplifting work environment. Being kind and spreading positivity are core values that she holds dear and are the foundation of her role to manage volunteers, and build connections and community at Liberty Sanctuary. Before moving to Heber City, Alesia successfully worked as an office manager and bookkeeper. We all benefit from Alesia’s sunny approach to any task and are so grateful for her leadership and commitment to making Liberty a rewarding place to volunteer.
From a young age, I found my passion for horses through reining competitions. As I grew, so did my love and dedication to these magnificent animals. My days start at 5:30 AM, tending to and caring for 15+ horses, ensuring they are ready for the day ahead. From turning them out and grooming to halter training and groundwork, I've honed my skills through years of experience. But it's not just about the work; it's about the connection. My favorite moments are the quiet ones, going on trail rides, feeling the rhythm of nature beneath us, and being truly one with my horse. There's nothing quite like that bond. I’m moved by Liberty Sanctuary’s work and rescues – horses who haven’t experienced that positive human interaction until arriving at Liberty. I have extensive experience as a spokesperson and content creator and aim to lend my skills and platform to expand Liberty/EquineIQ’s reach and mission of establishing enhanced national equine protections.
With a degree in Business Marketing, I have cultivated an extensive background in brand management, relationship building, networking, and content creation. Throughout my career, I have collaborated with well-known brands such as Levi’s, Calvin Klein, Victoria’s Secret, Puma, Converse, Fenty Beauty, Nike, and many more. I even had the opportunity to star in one of Doja Cat's music videos as well as skateboard in the middle of a Paris fashion week runway show.
My online presence grew organically through my passion for skateboarding and documenting my journey. As a female skateboarder in a male-dominated industry, I paved the way for other females who love skateboarding and wanted to learn more on a level of freedom and pure joy. I organized events to build a community for young girls, teenagers, and female adults. These events provide a safe, welcoming, supportive, and empowering environment.
In addition to my work in skateboarding, I successfully launched a hat and accessory company that has been thriving since its inception. My diverse skill set, combined with my dedication to empowering women in sports and business, have been the cornerstone of my career.
Eric is an equine rehabilitation specialist and runs his company, Equibalance, while serving as Director, Equine Wellness for Liberty Sanctuary. He was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and later moved to Utah in 1996. He pursued his passion for animals by obtaining a degree in veterinary technology. Eric's expertise in the field led him to become a teacher and educate veterinary technicians in equine studies and various other classes.
To further expand his knowledge and skills, Eric pursued additional certification as a Certified Equine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CERP) at the University of Tennessee. This qualification allowed him to specialize in the rehabilitation of horses, utilizing techniques to aid in their recovery and improve their overall well-being.
Outside of his professional life, Eric enjoys spending time outdoors. He finds solace in activities like hiking and camping, appreciating the beauty of nature. One of his cherished companions is his American Quarter horse named "SunnyJack," with whom he shares a deep bond. Additionally, Eric has a Rhodesian Ridgeback dog named "Goose," who is also a beloved member of his family.
We are honored to have Eric and his family caring for Liberty Sanctuary animals. As Director of Equine Wellness, Eric is developing a Wellness Program to be implemented daily. Additionally, he is developing a Volunteer Training Program with safety guidelines using natural horsemanship methods to be regularly followed as well. We couldn’t be happier to have Eric on board.
Scott grew up in rural New Jersey and made his way out west in the mid 80’s while serving in the United States Air Force. After a decade in the Salt Lake Valley, he relocated to Heber City and began caring for and enjoying horses with his wife, Debra.
While typically more at home setting World Records on his racing motorcycle with several hundred horsepower beneath him , Scott has found much joy with just a single horsepower and interacting with the animals and volunteers.
At Liberty Sanctuary, Scott manages daily operations and handles many of the infrastructure projects. In the corrals his calm energy and patience working with the horses is very beneficial in building trust and positive human interaction with all of the rescues. With equines and other animals we rescue, Scott has a true gift and plays a leadership role in making animals feel secure.
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