Celebrating a John Ray customer’s compassion for community.

Fourteen years ago, Tracy was at a crossroads. Rescuing animals had become a financial burden, and she faced the difficult decision of whether to continue her selfless work. Her 21-acre property in Buskirk, NY had become a haven for animals but funding it out-of-pocket was taking its toll. “Having all this land, people would call me to take in more animals,” Tracy recalls. “I was doing it out-of-pocket, and my accountant was like, ‘This is noble, but you’re going to go bankrupt.'”

Fate had other plans. One weekend, officers investigating a nearby farm brought neglected horses to her property, with the intention of them staying temporarily. Despite being advised to stop her rescue efforts, Tracy found herself caring for eight new horses overnight. Miraculously, her existing animals welcomed these newcomers, and Tracy knew she couldn’t give up. This moment solidified her resolve to continue her mission and in 2010, Tracy founded HeartsHerd Animal Sanctuary and Rescue Center.

Fast forward to today, and HeartsHerd is a thriving haven for 60 fowl and 40 farm animals, including elderly llamas, potbelly pigs, a blind cow, and a horse with a clubfoot named Cherokee—one of the original eight horses that inspired the nonprofit’s creation.

But HeartsHerd isn’t just about rescuing animals. The sanctuary hosts wellness days and events, offering schools, nonprofits, and other organizations the chance to experience the healing power of human-animal interaction. Tracy understands this recuperative power firsthand, having purchased her land in 2002 as a place to heal. “I was a broken soul,” she shares. “I moved here with one horse, one dog, and one cat. I needed a place to heal.”

Tracy’s incredible dedication and impact have not gone unnoticed. She was one of ten honorees featured in the 2024 holiday issues of Saratoga Living and Capital Region Living magazines. These honorees were celebrated at the 6th Annual Capital Region Gives Back event, held at Putnam Place on December 11, 2024.

John Ray is proud to have customers like Tracy Muscatello who are actively involved in giving back to the community. Her story is a testament to the power of compassion and the difference one person can make. Thank you, Tracy, for your unwavering dedication and for being an inspiration to us all.

Learn more about HeartsHerd Animal Sanctuary and Rescue Center