LTR Training Tip #18: Getting Down with Minis
Training miniature equines is similar to their larger brethren, but often requires special approaches to make them comfortable. Find out how to best work with your mini in “Getting Down with Minis.”
August 2020
LTR Training Tip #17: Bathing and the Hose
Bathing can be a challenging endeavor for equines that are afraid of water or the hose. Meredith explains how to teach your equines to enjoy bath time.
MULE CROSSING: Selecting a Trainer
By Meredith Hodges
We have our animals professionally trained primarily to allow them to perform to the best of their ability, but once we have decided to put them into training we are faced with the dilemma of selecting a trainer. With mules, selection of the trainer is of the utmost importance due to his psychological makeup. Remember that your mule cannot learn from someone he doesn’t like, and mules do have their preferences!
So, where do you begin looking for a trainer? The best place to begin would probably be at a mule show – study the animals and see who is winning the performance classes. Talk with those owners if they do not do the training themselves. They will probably be able to put you in touch with someone who does. Other good sources for trainers are the various equine publications that are popular in your area. Trainers, as in any business, will usually post ads. If no trainers are listed as such, study the ranch ads and contact the ranch owners – they should be able to help.
Once you have accumulated a few names, call and make appointments to visit the various trainers. The interview with the trainer is as important to you as it is to him. You will have an opportunity to discuss finance, goals and general care. An appointment will also give you the chance to see his facility and allow you to draw your own conclusions before you make a commitment. There are many good horse trainers available today, but they are not necessarily qualified to train mules. The mule trainer must be a person of extraordinary patience and be well versed in technique… and just as a precaution, you might ask if he’s ever trained a donkey. The mule trainer must know how to appeal to the donkey half of the mule as well as the horse half of the mule to be successful.
When you visit the trainer’s facility, there are several ways to get the information you require. First, pay attention to the general condition of the facility. Is it clean, free of debris with safe fencing? Check to see that water and mineral salt blocks are available to the stock. Does the trainer have a good working area available to him? In bad weather, an indoor arena is essential. If he does not have access to an indoor arena, he may not be able to work your mule as often as needed for a good sound training program. Next, check the general condition of his stock. Are they well fed? Are there any obtrusive scars or bruises on the animals, and what is the condition of their feet? Are they properly trimmed or shod? The condition of a trainer’s animals can tell you a lot about the trainer.
As a consideration to yourself and your mule, do not be afraid to ask the trainer if he will ride for you. You might want to mention the fact that you wish to see him ride at the time you make your appointment. The trainer can then be sure to allot the time necessary to ride for you. As he rides, watch the way he handles the animals. Are his hands light, yet firm? Does he ask for collection and cause the animal to travel smoothly and fluidly? Do his animals move away from leg pressure? Do the animals bend through their circles? Vertical flexion, impulsion, and lateral bend are all the elements of proper shape and any truly good trainer will know and practice these techniques. Beware of the person who claims to be a trainer, but only “rides” your animal. He could conceivably do immeasurable damage.
After touring the facility and watching the trainer at work, it is time for discussion. You have had a chance to determine the overall character of the trainer. If he is the least bit short-tempered or gruff, he is not trainer for your mule. If he seems patient and even-tempered, it is now time to discuss your goals and the way they will be financed. Be realistic about your expectations. An animal can be taught the basics in 60-90 days, but unless you are an experienced rider, the training cannot be maintained. Remember, training is primarily teaching the animal to respond to cues in a habitual manner and it takes time to build good habits. If you haven’t the finances for any more than 60-90 days and you are not experienced, ask the trainer if he would be willing to spend time in the last month, or so, teaching you how to ride your mule correctly. Any good trainer would insist that you do!
When you discuss your goals with the trainer, be concise and to the point. Ask him to clarify terms so that you understand exactly what he will be doing with your mule. Ask the trainer for a copy of the contract to take home with you and to study. To avoid any misunderstandings, ask the trainer about terms concerning the veterinarian, the horseshoer, hauling expenses, and any showing that you wish him to do. To clarify these responsibilities in advance will help to assure a good rapport with your prospective trainer.
If you are still unsure about a trainer after visiting his facility and talking with him, ask for references. While at home, you can check these references and go over the contract to see if he will, in fact, fit your needs.
Following these guidelines will enable you to locate the right trainer for your mule. Granted, it takes a little time to visit and discuss these things, but it is time well spent. The right trainer can produce a happy, healthy and well-mannered mule… but more than that, he can produce a satisfied owner!
To learn more about Meredith Hodges and her comprehensive all-breed equine training program, visit LuckyThreeRanch.com, MEREDITH HODGES PUBLIC FIGURE Facebook page, or call 1-800-816-7566. Check out her children’s website at JasperTheMule.com. Also, find Meredith on Pinterest, Instagram, MeWe, YouTube and Twitter.
Covered in TRAINING MULES & DONKEY: A LOGICAL APPROACH TO TRAINING, TRAINING WITHOUT RESISTANCE and EQUUS REVISITED at www.luckythreeranchstore.com.
© 1986, 1991, 2015, 2016, 2024 Lucky Three Ranch, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
CHASITY’S CHALLENGES: Vet Check: 5-13-20
5-13-20
After 14 days on antibiotics, our veterinarian Greg Farrand came out to see how Chasity’s bacterial infection was doing. He was pleasantly surprised to find that the old, incredibly swollen infection in her udder and teats had gone down a significant 70%! We knew it would take quite some time to deal with something that had been wrong with her for so very long. When we first began treatment, it was as hard as a rock and as big as a grapefruit, but it was now softening into very smaller lumps and shrinking more rapidly than we had originally thought.
Greg asked me what I had been doing with her and I showed him her “diary” where I had documented in text and photographs all the workouts and everything else that we were doing with her.
He asked if we had kept up on the soaking with warm water and we showed him pictures of the rigging we had for her to hold a heated wet towel between her legs and up against her teats and udder.
We all discussed what the protocol would be going forward. I asked if we needed to change the antibiotics to another type, or if it would be okay to continue with what had been working. We decided that another 14 days of the same antibiotics would be okay.
Greg gave my Ranch Manager, Chad, and I another 14 days of EQUISOL-SOT and explained that we would give it once a day in her feed as we had been doing.
Chasity was given a handful of her favorite crimped oats for standing still and for waiting so patiently while we finished our conversation with Greg. She was very grateful!
I asked Chasity to stretch to the right and she did very well indeed…
Then I asked Chasity to stretch to the left and she did well that way, too!
Our final stretch was downward and she does this with ease, following my hand as low as I would like her to go… and she is always rewarded for her efforts!
Then we walked in sync back to the barn, quietly and obediently! Chasity knows we have her best interest at heart and is happy to comply! She is beginning to really trust us!
CHASITY’S CHALLENGES: Circles and Stretching: 5-19-20
5-19-20
Chasity is continuing to gain core strength, balance and even has a little “prance” in her step these days. The bacterial infection is almost gone and she is eagerly waiting at the stall door for her lessons each week. She gets structured leading exercises in her proper postural “gear” and in between, she has other things happening on other days like daily “soaking” of her infection, vet appointments and the farrier. Today, we will add circles at every cone to increase the intensity of her workout. Stretching is done more frequently now.
Chasity carefully walks in sync with me, no more pulling on the lead rope or charging ahead like she did in the beginning. She is happy on her way to the outdoor dressage exercise arena. Varying the location of her postural core strength leading training keeps her fresh and engaged.
On the way to the dressage arena, we stop to visit with Augie and Spuds, our delightful little mini donkeys. Chasity is intrigued. Where she is stabled, she can only hear them. Then it’s on to the dressage arena.
Since the arena is also used as a turnout area, it is a bit bumpy and the sand is deeper than the other places where Chasity has worked. It will increase the intensity of her work. Still, she is bending nicely through her rib cage while remaining erect in her body and doing her four-square stretches very well indeed!
Chasity is bending her joints well while walking in sync with me, however, I am noticing she is a bit stiff in her left hind leg, especially around the turns to the left. We added circles at every cone in the Hourglass Pattern to help to enhance her bending technique.
She steps out nicely with her right front, but as she brings the left hip forward, her gait is stilted and limited in it’s range of motion. The abdominal muscles are only moderately engaged and she stops short of reaching underneath her body to her center of gravity.
The right hind leg moves forward into it’s correct position, but she is just lifting and swinging her left hind leg forward instead of bending adequately through her joints, particularly in her hip joint.
As she steps forward with the right hind foot, the left hind has an abnormal look to the extension of the leg. It appears stuck in the hip joint and pelvic area, and is not swinging freely. Still, she is bending fairly nicely through her spine.
Another good stretch while standing four-square was in order and Chasity let me know that it felt VERY GOOD!
On straight lines with no rails, Chasity is able to reach underneath her body to the center of gravity, but going around the turns reveals some stiffness in her pelvic area while the rest of her spine bends easily.
Chasity really enjoys her stretches and does them with no problem at all. Then we begin to track in the other direction and it is clear that bending to the right is particularly difficult for her.
As we proceed around the cones to the right, her bending gets a little better and the right leg moves easily under her center of gravity. But when she approaches the rails, her pelvis appears to stiffen and inhibit her movement again.
There is plenty of “reach” in her front legs, but the rear legs do not seem to be able to consistently follow her forward movement. Her abdominal muscles are engaged and she is attempting to round her back, but her stiff pelvic area is inhibiting the ability to reach well underneath her body.
Traversing the rails is making it apparent that she should probably have a visit from our proficient equine chiropractor. Since she just arrived a short time ago, I did not think it would be prudent to expose her to chiropractic until I could loosen her stiff body a little bit and gain her trust first.
We finished traversing the rails and she had to “lean” on the “Elbow Pull” to keep her balance. She did pretty well circling to the right for the last time, but it was now clear that she would need to be adjusted with chiropractic before any further lessons could take place and be beneficial to her.
We ended the lesson with one more four-square downward stretch, then a stretch to the right…
…then she did a stretch to the left and left the arena in perfect synchonization with each other. Still, she didn’t have the “reach” behind that I thought that she should.
Just to make things a bit more interesting, we opted to investigate the lane to the small park to look at this new area. Chasity thought the steps looked particularly strange, but she was not fearful.
She navigated the steps like a champ and stood quietly while we took in the sights. She saw Robin Laws’ “Donkey Talk” to her left and J. Payne Lara’s “Love Me Tender to her right.This was a major accomplishment for Chasity since standing still was NOT something she wanted to do when she first arrived.
Then we went back up the steps, left the area and went to see the pack mules, “A Friend to Lean On” by Robin Laws. Chasity played “cute” for the camera. Then we went to see Bonnie Shields’ “Friends,” a bronze statue of Kylie, Moxie and Jasper from our children’s series. As you can see, her posture is greatly improved…the “Elbow Pull” is staying LOOSE most of the time now!
TODAY – 911 CALLS from TRAPPER & THE SHIPPER. UPWARDS OF 8? BABIES and THAT IS JUST TODAY! FUNDS NEEDED ASAP TO SAVE THESE!
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
More babies and a rare chance to save a beautiful stallion. They need YOU to save their lives. I received a call from the shipper and one of the catchers today.
Sadly, our coffers are close to empty. I still need about $5000 to cover the latest group’s shipping, vetting and to pay the wonderful folks who are taking care of the critters and our special needs kids in NV, while I am up here rescuing. I realize the groups are running together, (believe me, I want to go home…) But as usual, in the middle of the last 20+ rescued, as I wait for paperwork I get another call for more.
MORE BABIES need us NOW! I have to give the catcher and trapper an answer by tomorrow to see if we can take on the new ones in front of us. We need to save the stallion too. LET’S SAVE THEM ALL!!
I realize the pandemic has wiped out so much income and caused so much hardship, and I so appreciate every penny that has been donated.
However, I can only rescue as many critters as I have funds for. I need to raise the funds to finish this last group (we still have 12 available for adoption) and then have enough to safely and responsibly save this next group.
I will keep going as long as I can, but right now I cannot responsibly say yes to more horses without your help and commitment!
WILL YOU HELP ME SAVE THEM? Just this morning they were with their families. Tonight, alone but together, they scream for their Mama’s and their band. Please help us give them the gift of life. I asked, and there is no where else for them to go, and we all know what that means.
Some sad/glad news, we had to say goodbye to Ranger today. Ranger was a supposed 20 year old that y’all saved years ago. In reality he was 30 ish at the time and he has spent the last years in absolute heaven on earth with a wonderful family and their 3 kids. He has been a special needs and on mash and this morning I had to say goodbye. He had the most beautiful ending to his life, but it still hurts and it broke my heart.
THIS is a big part of what y’all do. You not only save lives, but you give these animals the most precious gift possible, by allowing them to be loved and spoiled the last years of their lives.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
You can go to gofundme
You can go to Paypal
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
Help us run these ads?
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
News & Alerts
The BLM’s summer assault on our wild horses and burros is still mounting — already more than 3,200 wild horses and burros have been run down and rounded up, 19 have been tragically killed. At the same time, historic legislation is waiting to be championed in the Senate, which means we have no time to waste.
Advocating for the protection of wild horses and public lands on Capitol Hill can be a long and challenging process. That’s why when we make progress, it’s important to give credit where credit is due and keep up the momentum by asking more lawmakers to join the fight.
Here’s how you can help continue this critical momentum towards protecting wild horses and burros: We’ve created a new series of digital ads both thanking our wild horse champions in the House and Senate, and encouraging those Senators who still need to step up and do the right thing. We’re calling on key legislators to protect wild horses from cruel and inhumane helicopter assaults and dangerous surgical sterilization methods, before it’s too late.
We’ve already passed the wild horse amendment in the House of Representatives, now we need the Senate to pick up the ball and do its part to save thousands of wild horses and burros. It’s up to all of us to remind our Senators that we are here to speak up for our wild horses who have no voice, and we’re not going anywhere until they’re protected, wild and free. Will you join the chorus of calls for protection?
Thank you for stepping up today to protect our wild horses and burros.
— AWHC
Stop New Equine Diseases! Contact USDA Today!
The following is from the American Horse Council:
American Horse Council Action Alert
USDA Must Stop Threat of African Horse Sickness!
USDA’s Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is soliciting comments from the public related to its proposed list of pests and diseases that pose a high risk to agriculture. The 2018 farm bill authorizes USDA to compile a list of major diseases, so long as it is “likely to pose a significant risk to the food and agricultural critical infrastructure.” As a member of the horse industry, you have the opportunity to make your voice heard by contacting USDA and alerting federal regulators about the dangers of African Horse Sickness, a disease long underestimated by the agency. To make the greatest impact on USDA’s decision-making, we urge you to submit your letter as soon as possible, and “stack” the docket with pro-horse industry comments!
MY HEART IS SHATTERED – RIP MY BEAUTIFUL MIRACLE GIRL – & OF COURSE ANOTHER CALL 12 MORE BABIES & ACTIVELY ON STAND BY FOR MORE
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
Since my last update, including this little angel, y’all saved 12 babies lives!!!!!**
AS ALWAYS, the calls KEEP COMING! The new number is 12, YES – ANOTHER 12, and I am currently on standby for babies from 2 other catchers. So most likely by the time vetting would come, I will be even more buried.
DO I tell him yes?
Their Mom’s and Dad’s literally just loaded onto a slaughter truck, and I need to be able to say YES to all of them!!
This will put Vetting, coggins and paperwork in the multiple thousands.
DO WE, our CHILLY PEPPER FAMILY – SAVE THEM??? I cannot do this without raising funds to pay for them, feed them, etc. etc.
I honestly would rather crawl into a hole and not talk to anyone or see anyone. I lost my beautiful “Little Miracle Girl”. It hurts so much and it is like she literally climbed into my soul. She certainly crawled physically into me..
More heartbreak – I simply do not have words that will do this beautiful girl justice. She survived predators, ie bears, cougars, coyotes and a harsh environment with little feed and water. Her whole life must have been excruciating, except for the last 4 days she was with me. Thankfully she had pain meds and oh so much love.
All she wanted was to be in my lap. She literally would try to crawl into me and was ALWAYS nuzzling my knee. It was as if she knew that we shared the same excruciating type of pain, although hers had to be worse. She was a completely wild filly on Sunday and could kick like a pro. We bonded the second our eyes met. It sounds funny, but if you look at her in the pictures it is like we were together forever.
Sadly, when the vet took x-rays BOTH of her joints had huge broken pieces of bone floating around. It had to be beyond excruciating. Add that to her pneumonia and swollen joints (which ended up being septic), her life could hardly have been more painful. I was so not expecting this. Her pneumonia was a thousand times better, and she wanted life so badly.
It was an excruciating decision, but the ONLY RIGHT DECISION FOR HER.
All I can do is crawl out of my hole and save the next 12 in her honor. My beautiful girl took so much of my heart with her. THANK YOU EVERYONE who gave her a chance. She had the heart of a lion and if we didn’t have the bone chips we could have at least fought longer. At least if you look at her photo’s it is obvious how loved she felt and at peace, knowing she was being helped. I treasure every second I had with her, but now I have to fight for the new ones to honor her spirit.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
You can go to gofundme
You can go to Paypal
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
Boots and Bling is Going Virtual!
The following is from All About Equine Animal Rescue:
Boots and Bling has a New DATE!!!!
Join Us October 8th for our VIRTUAL Boots and Bling event! We will be featuring stories from the barn, volunteers and adopters! There will be a live auction, silent auction and a fund-a-need. We hope you will all join us on October 8th. Although this event will be different from the past, we are excited for this opportunity to come together virtually and help the horses! More information will be coming soon on how to register for the event!
Watch out for updates on our Facebook event page or visit our website
Sponsorship opportunities are available.
If you are interested in sponsoring Boots, please contact Drew.
Auction items are needed.
If you are interested in donating to the auction, contact Dani.
New Intakes Need Some Love!
While we all continue experiencing uncertain times, there are still many, many horses in need. We continue to support as resources are available. We are currently working with a distressed sanctuary to help reduce their herd. This is definitely be a team effort, so Team AAE, let’s do this again! Together, we can make a difference for these horses.
Here’s the next group we’ve been working on:
These three muskateers are late teens/20-ish, and they came with a little baggage.
SHOOTER
Shooter is a 2001 buckskin Mustang gelding. Besides needing the basics (e.g. hoof and dental care, vaccines, microchip, and deworming), he has a slow-growing, sizable mass a the base of his jaw. If left unchecked, it could grow to interfere with breathing and swallowing. Surgery quote is estimated at $1500-2500 for removal. Additional costs will include biopsy, hospitalization, medications, post-surgical care and follow up. He’s a sweet ol’ guy that is in good shape, otherwise. He’s halterable and relatively easy to handle and may have been ridden in younger years. Basics have been done, he’s gained weight and is looking good, and he’s about ready for surgery!
ALLIE
Allie is a 2000 dark brown dun Mustang mare. She was also needing the basics (e.g. hoof and dental care, vaccines, microchip, and deworming). Her hooves were quite long and uncomfortable, so her first stop was the farrier. With light sedation, her front hooves were trimmed, and hinds were done after her dental (heavier sedation).
Allie also has a mass on the side of her left rib cage, apparently from removal of a recurring cyst (removed three times). The area was evaluated, and appears to be scar tissue. We’ll continue to monitor. This gal is a timid mare, but she’s full of try. Apparently, she spent some time at the Monty Roberts International Learning Center years ago, and she has retained some of her education, but she needs more confidence and trust!
CARLY
Carly is a 20-ish red dun Mustang mare. She is an extremely sweet ol’ gal that needed the basics, especially dental care and some good groceries. Her pointy ol’ hip was so sad. She was loved by flies, they covered her in patches of black, and she had sores in their favorite spots.
Carly is on the road to recovery now and looking great. She’s filling in and getting quite comfortable with all of the pampering she gets. She’s very social, loves grooming and attention, and she’s quickly becoming a volunteer favorite.
We’ve setup a GoFundMe for this group. Costs associated with this group will likely exceed $4000 by the time Shooter’s surgery is done, and they ready for adoption. There are more horses to help, and with the postponement of our Boots event, we’re not as well funded as we typically are this time of year, so we need your help to assure we have ample funding for the next group.
Please join us in getting this group on the path to a family of their own. If you can help, please click on the GoFundMe link below. There are a few more photos within the GFM piece, and we will initially be posting updates for this group in the GFM.
BREAKING: Another win with Pendley gone
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
News & Alerts
BIG news:
Over the weekend, the Trump Administration officially dropped the nomination of William Perry Pendley as director of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).This news comes just weeks after launching our efforts to REJECT Pendley’s nomination. We want to thank everyone who signed petitions, donated to ads, and put pressure on leadership to do the right thing. Your actions helped remove a direct threat to wild horses and burros across the country and is further proof that together, we can bring about great change.
As acting BLM director, Pendley notoriously called America’s beloved wild horses an “existential threat to the public lands,” despite the fact they are not present on 88 percent of the lands his agency manages. Thankfully, Pendley will no longer be able to use wild horses as the scapegoats to prop up his friends in Big Ag and Big Oil.
AWHC applauds the decision by the Trump Administration to withdraw the Pendley nomination and put the lives of our beautiful wild horses above profit:
We are extremely grateful to all the wild horse defenders who took action by signing our petition and donating to digital advocacy ads. Your voices amplified the chorus of opposition to Pendley’s nomination. Victories like this are incredibly important for forward momentum on wild horse protections, and all signs are pointing to more wins to come. In order to build on this success, we need to keep the pressure up.
will you donate today to power our ongoing advocacy efforts?
You’ll never guess what we heard…
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
News & Alerts
I just got off the phone with one of our field representatives in Nevada, and he told me something that I have to share with you: This week, at the helicopter roundup in the Shawave Herd Management Area, a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) employee complained to him about the House amendment we and our coalition partners worked to pass this month, which would require the BLM to spend $11 million of $21 million in additional Fiscal Year 2021 funding on fertility control.
The BLM employee asked:“how are we supposed to keep removing horses if your amendment passes?”… exactly. THIS, along with what our champions in Congress are telling us, is how we know what we’re doing has the potential to really make a difference.
At this time of year, it often feels like roundup season will never end. I know how difficult — and distressing — it is to see, and read, about hundreds of wild horses and burros being aggressively hunted down by helicopters, rounded up, separated from their tiny foals and captured all across the west.
By the end of the day on Thursday, the BLM had removed 913 wild horses as well as ALL of the 220 wild burros from the Shawave HMA in Nevada. Tragically, 8 wild horses and 1 burros have died so far from this roundup ALONE.
You can read about the details here.
But here’s what I want to stress: We’ll continue to be right there with our wild horses and burros. Filming, documenting, relaying information to our lawyers standing by and our lobbyists on Capitol Hill. We will not stop until we’ve done everything in our power to ensure wild horse and burro management is humane, sustainable and cruelty-free.
Grace Kuhn
Communications Director
American Wild Horse Campaign
PS — We’re going after those who profit off cruelty right where it hurts them most: their overstuffed hip pockets. The private companies contracted by the BLM to carry out these traumatic and overly aggressive helicopter roundups are making BIG money — most times more than half a million dollars per contract — to terrorize the wild horses and burros who call our public lands home. We know — and have proved — this money is better spent on humane, and scientifically sound fertility control measures and we’re this close to seeing Congress come around to the right side of history on this issue. Thank you for all you’ve done — and continue to do — to get us here.
A SHARP KNIFE – OR A CHANCE AT LIFE? ANOTHER EMERGENCY CALL, – MORE BABIES? WHICH ONES DO WE SAVE?
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
Where to even start. Above –
MY LITTLE MIRACLE GIRL
Another 911 call this morning. Would I give this little girl a chance?? When she was brought in off the range, the choices were a sharp knife or give
her a chance with me.
We have seen worse legs that healed, legs that looked better but did not heal, but never have I seen such a healthy little girl with such a fighting attitude. I had to say yes.
Yesterday I was looking at 8 babies, heading out to pick up 3 more and wondering how on earth I could say yes to all of them. Once again it was on faith.
Faith that someone will skip a coffee and send that money. I know Covid has changed our world and funds are tight, but we funds are nowhere near where we need to be.
Vetting the 13 that are in front of me is going to be hideously expensive.
We have several babies with injuries, most of them I can treat, but at least one of them will need surgery and of course this little one will need some veterinary intervention and I will treat her under my vet.
MY LITTLE MIRACLE GIRL needs a miracle, and I have every intention of fighting with her as long as she wants. LOOK at how beautiful she is. That big toned butt, her shiny coat. This little girl wants to thrive to survive.
As always, I am on the front lines and it is one emergency after another.
It is exhausting and my silly shoulder is not working so that adds an extra special element of fun to the whole rescue. I wonder sometimes if that is why God sends me the worst cases, because I can relate??? Anyway, as usual the success of the rescue is in your hands. THANK YOU for doing so much to save so many lives. Please say a prayer for “My Little Miracle Girl”. She needs so many.
Reba is struggling so we are changing up her feed and running more blood work.
I have also had another sort of rescue put in front of me. There is a starving Mama kitty and 4? out of 5 babies left? So I am also working on trapping them.
Apparently the local dogs have been killing the cats left and right and “taking care of the issue”. So prayers that I can trap them and we can get them fixed and homed.
THANK YOU EVERYONE who is part of this ongoing journey to save God’s creatures. There are simply no words to express my appreciation. Y’all Rock!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
You can go to gofundme
You can go to Paypal
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
ACTION ALERT: Help wild horses in CA
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
News & Alerts
The U.S. Forest Service is now seeking public comments on its plan to launch yet another helicopter assault on the wild horses of California.
This latest cruel and inhumane proposal comes on the heels of two years of rounding up and removing almost 1,500 horses from the Devil’s Garden Wild Horse Territory on the Modoc National Forest in northeast California. Now, the Forest Service is targeting 500 more horses for removal this fall in order to appease private ranching interests that view the horses as competition for resources on the 258,000 acres of public land where the Devil’s Garden mustangs live.
This should not surprise you: While the Forest Service only allows between 206-402 wild horses on the Territory, it authorizes as many as 3,700 cattle and 2,900 sheep to graze for six months a year – all at taxpayer expense.
Adding insult to injury, the cost to taxpayers for rounding up Devil’s Garden wild horses over the last three years is more than $1.5 million!
Instead of launching yet another costly, traumatic and potentially deadly roundup, the Forest Service needs to protect this historic wild horse herd by managing it humanely in the wild with a comprehensive, scientifically proven PZP fertility control program.
Weigh in NOW before the August 20 public comment period deadline: Join us in defending the Devil’s Garden wild horses →
— AWHC
IT’S GO TIME AGAIN! ANOTHER BABY 911 SHIPPER CALLED – BABIES ON THE FEED LOT TRAPPER CALLED – BABIES NEED US NOW!
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
Above – one of the babies y’all just saved.
Another 911, 2 urgent calls for orphans today. One from the shipper – and another call from one of the catchers. I know there are 4 at the catchers and not sure how many are at the shippers. It’s up to y’all if we can keep saving these precious lives. I simply cannot do it without your help. You save so many, and I am praying we can keep saving more. I will do the work if y’all keep helping with the finances.
(I am sure by the time I get there the numbers will have grown as usual. But I am guessing 8 or more?)
We are tapped out from all the vet bills, bail, medications, transport etc. etc., not to mention feeding our special needs kids.
These babies have nowhere to go, and as you can see, our beautiful REBA, (shown below) is going to need vet care, blood work, and can only have mash for the rest of her life. She needs help now.
She did ask me to tell you – THANK YOU FOR SAVING MY LIFE, NOW PLEASE HELP ME FEEL BETTER……..
Please help save more lives. There are so many times I think I just can’t stand the heartbreak anymore, but how do I limp away? Each and every single life matters. In all reality though, you decide who we save. Let’s keep saving every one we can.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
You can go to gofundme
You can go to Paypal
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
A BIG THANK YOU – AND A SAD UPDATE. A MOMENT BETWEEN NEW RESCUES WHILE TAKING CARE OF THE ONES WE JUST SAVED.
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
Some of the last group of babies y’all saved.
THANK YOU, ALL OF YOU, who are making a difference whether it is from sharing, caring and praying, or donating. Together we can keep saving them.
I wanted to take a quick moment and say how grateful I am for ALL OF YOUR DONATIONS and the LOVE AND SUPPORT!
My heart is broken once again, and *only YOU and the faith I have in God has gotten me this far.*
Lindsy, the beautiful 30 year old + paint pony, was always a possible “humane euthanasia”. When Doc recommended giving her a chance and the medicine which could help her, I did every possible thing anyone could do. She had more love in the last few weeks than a lot of horses ever get in a lifetime. It was expensive to get her medicine and get her lil hoofers done, but thanks TO ALL OF YOU, she had EVERY chance and oh so much love. She DID NOT ship to slaughter. So although it hurt so much to love her enough to end her pain, that is what had to be done.
Losing Samantha, the little pony with the horrible injuries to her face, and eye, just about did me in. After spending lots of time vetting and caring for her, she was at the vet to have her eye repaired again. Before her surgery even began, she passed under anesthesia. With all the damage done to her face and skull, there was a really good chance she had either a brain bleed or even a heart issue. When Doc called me it was beyond devastating. She was just a baby.
We have to remember once again, she had more love and care in her short time with us than she had ever had. I really like to think that all the mischief she caused was for fun, and not from pain, but all I know is that she is at peace and running free in heaven.
Rescue is beyond hard, but every single horse you saved AVOIDED the slaughter truck and knew love and tenderness before they left this earth.
Again, THANK YOU for all your donations and for helping so many of these precious souls.
Hugs from a devastated heart,
P
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
You can go to gofundme
You can go to Paypal
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
NEWS: Wild horses getting the attention they deserve!
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
July marked significant highs and lows for our wild horses — with wins in Congress, and tragic losses out on public lands as the BLM’s brutal roundup season continues, now in Nevada.
In the middle of all this important action, some exciting developments took place and we want to make sure you hear about them!
A historic win for wild horses
Our recent win on Capitol Hill is making the news and raising awareness in the places that matter most.
ICYMI: On July 23rd, the House of Representatives held its first vote on a wild horse issue in over a DECADE and APPROVED a protection measure, thanks to the tireless advocacy of all of us, and our wild horse champions in Congress. Specifically, the House passed an amendment that will rein in cruel and inhumane roundups by requiring the Bureau of Land Management to spend $11 million on the humane and proven safe fertility control vaccine, PZP.
Together, we kept up the pressure on Congress when it mattered — sending in more than twelve thousands of emails, making thousands of calls, and reaching hundreds of thousands of people on social media urging Congress to take action. These efforts resulted in a historic step forward for the management of wild horses and now we’re gearing up to take the fight to the Senate.
He’s right — and that’s exactly why we advocated for the passage of this amendment while continuing to prove with our innovative, minimally invasive, PZP fertility control program that humane management of wild horses is possible.
Click here to read more about this important development, including comments from our coalition partners and other lawmakers committed to making change for our wild horses and burros.
Keeping Wild Horses Wild 101
Last week, AWHC hosted the second installment of our ‘Keeping Wild Horses Wild 101’ webinar series, this time focusing on the (especially timely!) importance of the legislative process in keeping wild horses wild. You can watch, and learn more, below:
Disney Plus Picks Up Adaptation of Black Beauty
It’s official, Mackenzie Foy and Kate Winslet will star in the new Disney adaptation of Black beauty. This contemporary version of the 1877 novel will tell the story of a mustang born wild and free, who, when rounded up, is separated from her family and everything she knows — sound familiar?!
Coming 2021…
On the topic of Black Beauty, AWHC is thrilled to have been interviewed by the director of the film for an upcoming documentary Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West!
This film will explore the plight of wild horses in more depth, shining a light on the issues they face while educating the public on the ongoing efforts to keep our wild horses and burros wild and free. Take a first look at this exciting documentary below!
From the entire team at AWHC, thank you for your continued support of our iconic wild horses and burros, we hope you have a wild (and safe) weekend!
— American Wild Horse Campaign
STARVING & BADLY INJURED MARE, ANOTHER 911 AS BABIES ARE AT THE SHIPPER’S. NO TIME TO GRIEVE OR EVEN BREATHE – THEY NEED US NOW!
The following is from Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang:
Wow – the calls just won’t stop. I’ve been home all of 3 days, and this injured and starving mare was today’s 911. We have to save her. She is super sweet and can hardly walk and is obviously starving. She wouldn’t even make the trip to slaughter and would be trampled in the truck. That can’t happen.
Shipper called and the babies below are in the trailer. Mom’s and families have been loaded and are on their way to slaughter. We have to take these babies – they have no where else to go.
Sadly, the beautiful Granny passed away last night due to the head injuries inflicted on her at the same time they destroyed her lip. Our hearts are broken but there is not even a moment to grieve, or even breathe. At least she is out of pain and was surrounded by love for her last few days.
I can only imagine what the numbers will be by the time I actually get there to pick them up. For now, Mama Mel will be taking care of the babies and I need to call tonight and let them know if we can take Reba, (the starving/injured mare).
Our vet bills were just a few dollars shy of $5,000 for this last rescue, (before I even got home). Sweet Sally, the donkey, needs more x-rays. Samantha, (the little mini) needs her eye either repaired or removed. The stallions need to be gelded and the kids with Cushings need more meds. The list goes on and on.
I know the world has turned upside down, but my life didn’t really change. I keep getting calls and as long as y’all keep helping and want to save these lives, I will keep on fighting. This is beyond exhausting, but if you look at that worried face on Reba, well it is almost as if she knows something bad is coming. Let’s make sure only good comes to her for the rest of her life.
THANK YOU, ALL OF YOU, who are making a difference whether it is from sharing, caring and praying, or donating. Together we can keep saving them. Off to feed and give meds.
Someone take a nap for me please. LOL
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO KEEP HELPING US SAVE MORE LIVES, YOU CAN GO TO:
You can go to gofundme
You can go to Paypal
if you would like to help these horses.
->You can donate via check at: (PLEASE NOTE NEW PO BOX #)
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang,
PO Box # 233
Golconda, NV 89414
You can also donate via credit card by calling Palomino at 530-339-1458.
NO MATTER HOW BIG OR HOW SMALL – WE SAVE THEM ALL!
SAVING GD’S CRITTERS – FOUR FEET AT A TIME
Chilly Pepper – Miracle Mustang, WIN Project – Rescue & Rehab
We are now part of the WIN Organization
WIN (WILD HORSES IN NEED) is a 501c3 IRS EIN 55-0882407_
If there are ever funds left over from the cost of the rescue itself, the monies are used to feed, vet, care for and provide shelter and proper fencing for the animals once they are saved.
Another Augie and Spuds Adventure: Exploring the JASPER CAROUSEL 5-19-20
Augie and Spuds always look forward to their adventures and this would be no exception!
“Where are we going this time, Augie?”
“It seems we are in the backyard of the JASPER BUNKHOUSE, Spuds!”
“What?! This is scary, Augie!”
“Oh Spuds, you know how to go through the gate, so just cut the drama and come and get your reward!”
“Oh WOW! Check this out, Spuds!”
“There are ‘little guys’ just like us in here! Mom says this one is named Valentine!”
“Look out there, Augie! Grass!”
“Check out Okie Dokey, Spuds. He’s a little donkey!”
“Hey, Spuds! It’s Jasper!!!”
“Awh! We LOVE Jasper so much!”
“And don’t forget about Moxie! He’s so cool!”
“Check it out, Spuds! We’re carousel donkeys!”
“I think I’ll just pose with Jasper!”
“Okay! Okay! So we’re carousel donkeys!”
“Smile and say ‘Jasper,’ Augie!”
“But I’m not ready to go yet, Augie! Jasper still wants me!”
“That was a lot of fun wasn’t it, Spuds?! It was another great adventure!”
To learn more about Meredith Hodges and her comprehensive all-breed equine training program, visit LuckyThreeRanch.com or call 1-800-816-7566. Check out her children’s website at JasperTheMule.com. Also, find Meredith on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.
© 2016, 2017 Lucky Three Ranch, Inc. All Rights Reserved.