A sunny October Sunday felt like the perfect time to visit Arklius Slenis, a horse rescue or, more so, sanctuary less than an hour away from Vilnius. Arklių Slėnis is part of Žirgų Globos Asociacija, which has been operating for almost 18 years. Over time, the association’s values and leadership have evolved, eventually giving rise to Arklių Slėnis, which has now existed for over six years.
The idea was to create a place where horses and people could meet each other without expectations—allowing horses to live freely. While people are guests, they can simply learn from the peace, gentleness, and trust that horses bring to interactions. The founders of Arklių Slėnis are Rūta Rosson, Rolandas Levinskas, and Olga Choroškova.
Today, 34 horses of various ages reside there, along with 4 donkeys, 1 mule, 5 sheep, 4 cats, 4 dogs, and 3 geese. All of our animals live using a “track system,” which ensures that they can move freely and live in conditions that are as natural as possible. Most of the animals are in the final stage of their lives, having come from situations of severe physical or psychological trauma. Our goal is to ensure that their last days are filled with care and comfort, free from pain, fear, or loneliness.
Where did you draw the inspiration to build a similar place?
Olga: The inspiration came from my deep desire to “free” horses from human demands and expectations. I instinctively sought to create a place where horses could simply be themselves without being treated as tools for entertainment or profit. Arklių Slėnis gradually became a place where humans serve horses and where interaction is based on trust and mutual respect.
What were the first horses that were brought to your retreat?
Olga: Some of the first horses came from a well-known case of neglect in 2013, where more than 140 horses were kept in terrible conditions, suffering from starvation and disease. Some of those horses are still with us today, and they were the first to set foot on the land of Arklių Slėnis.
Is Arkliu Slenis accessible for everyone to visit?
Olga: Arklių Slėnis is open to visitors by appointment only, as we strive to preserve the tranquility and routine of the animals. Visits usually take place on Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., using prior registration by phone. For safety reasons, we do not accept children under 10 or pets. After a first visit, people are welcome to return at any convenient time, as long as they inform us in advance.
People can also become volunteers. Anyone interested is welcome to contact us by phone or email a brief introduction to info@arkliuslenis.lt. We are looking for volunteers in various areas, including physical work, marketing, legal, and others.
How can people best support Arkliu Slenis?
Olga: Perhaps it’s food, donations, or anything else of that nature. Financial support is essential for us to provide proper veterinary care, treatments, and upkeep for the sanctuary. We also appreciate donations of gift cards for agricultural or feed stores or equestrian supplies. Additionally, people can sponsor a horse remotely through our “Adopt Me” program.
You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates, stories, and photos from Arklių Slėnis. More information is also available on our website at www.zga.lt.
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