TITLE: Honoring Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison on its 46th anniversary.

SUMMARY: Honoring Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison on its 46th anniversary.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, For 46 years, Black Beauty Ranch in Murchison has provided a safe haven for animals in need of rescue, rehabilitation, and lifelong care; and WHEREAS, Founded by renowned author and animal welfare advocate Cleveland Amory in 1979, Black Beauty Ranch is a premier animal sanctuary operated by the nonprofit organization Humane World for Animals; named after the beloved novel by Anna Sewell, the ranch stands as a symbol of compassion and a beacon of hope 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 habitats in Henderson County and offers a secure refuge for over 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 tragic situations such 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 resident, ensuring they receive not only shelter but also the dignity, respect, and quality of life they deserve; beyond its service to 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 life-saving 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 a privilege to recognize an organization that has made such a profound difference in the lives of both animals and people; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas Legislature hereby honor Black Beauty Ranch on its 46th anniversary and commend its staff, volunteers, and supporters for their exceptional dedication to the care and protection of animals in need; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Black Beauty Ranch as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Harris Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 391 was adopted by the House on March 13, 2025, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House