SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 298

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison on the occasion of its 46th anniversary; and

WHEREAS, Founded by renowned author and animal welfare advocate Cleveland Amory in 1979, Black Beauty Ranch is a premier animal sanctuary that provides a safe haven for animals in need of rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care; operated by the nonprofit organization Humane World for Animals and named for the beloved novel by Anna Sewell, the ranch stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of compassion for animals freed from cruelty, neglect, and exploitation; and

WHEREAS, Black Beauty Ranch's history began with the rescue of 577 burros from the Grand Canyon, a landmark effort that set the foundation for the ranch's mission to provide animals with a second chance at life; today, the ranch spans more than 1,400 acres of natural habitat in Henderson County and offers a secure refuge for more than 600 animals representing some 40 different species, including primates, big cats, bears, horses, bison, reptiles, and livestock; all animals housed at the facility were rescued from such dire situations as roadside zoos, the exotic pet trade, circuses, research laboratories, and hoarding cases; and

WHEREAS, The ranch's dedicated team of animal care professionals and veterinarians work tirelessly to meet the physical, behavioral, and emotional needs of every animal in their care and to ensure they receive not only shelter but also the resources necessary to experience a higher quality of life; beyond its work to aid vulnerable animals, the ranch has been a leader in promoting public education and humane advocacy through guided tours and educational programs that help visitors from across Texas and around the world to better understand the importance of animal protection and environmental conservation; and

WHEREAS, In 2024, Black Beauty Ranch stepped in to offer sanctuary to animals following the closure of Puerto Rico's last remaining zoo, where many had suffered from years of neglect and inadequate care; this lifesaving effort demonstrated the ranch's capacity for large-scale rescue operations as part of its continuing work to protect and rehabilitate wildlife held in substandard conditions; and

WHEREAS, Over the past 46 years, Black Beauty Ranch has exemplified the highest standards of animal welfare and ethical stewardship, and it is indeed fitting that this exemplary organization receive special recognition for its outstanding contributions to the well-being of animals; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, hereby commend the staff, volunteers, and supporters of Black Beauty Ranch on 46 years of exceptional dedication to the care and protection of animals in need and extend to all sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the ranch as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Nichols

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 24, 2025.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate