I am running out of room. So many babies and horses keep coming in.
Another 911! More babies and ??? to pick up tomorrow.
To buy 20 more panels and some gates would take about $3500, plus we are running out of everything. I need more pens!
We need more milk, hay, grain, shavings etc. This many horses take lots of TLC and supplies.
I want to say YES tomorrow to as many as I can.
Just got another one today!
Thank you for EVERYTHING you do. YOU are the reason that this is possible. I will keep doing the work, but without y’all, it won’t happen.
Ford was found emaciated, alone and near death on the range. He has been to the vet for Colostrum (Plasma transfusion), but needs lots of prayers. Mia is now confined to a sling for two weeks, but struggling. She has a 50/50 chance of having a viable life. She has Incomplete Ossification of her Cuboidal Bones from being such a preemie. Her chances are slim, so please say a prayer.
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
We have some important news we want to share with you…
On the very same day that we confirmed 10 more Bureau of Land Management (BLM)-branded burros were adopted through the Adoption Incentive Program (AIP) then dumped at an Oklahoma kill pen, the BLM released a list of so-called “reforms” to the AIP.
Although we are pleased that the BLM is finally paying attention to this disastrous program, the announced changes will not stop the flow of wild horses and burros through the AIP into the slaughter pipeline.
BLM-branded burros AWHC recently helped to rescue from an Oklahoma kill pen.
And while dozens of mustangs and burros continue to be funneled into kill pens across the country, the BLM continues to minimize the extent of the problem — despite the incriminating evidence found in the report AWHC presented to the agency.
So, while the BLM’s announced changes are a start, they are certainly not enough. These reforms will not be sufficient or effective in keeping wild horses and burros out of the slaughter pipeline. That’s why our lawsuit against the BLM to end this cash incentive adoption program is so important. We won’t stop until the program is terminated. Can you chip in to our Legal Fund now to help us have the resources to put an end to this failed program?
The BLM’s announced changes continue to focus on only protecting wild horses and burros before title passes — which means once under new ownership, wild horses and burros can be sold to kill pens if their owner chooses to do so.
This is not the only critical flaw in the BLM’s proposed changes. The announced reforms do nothing to address the problem inherent in the cash incentive component of the program, nor do they provide adequate safeguards against widespread abuse within the AIP.
Many have inquired as to the suitability of mules and donkeys for children. As with any equine, choosing the right individual for your child is of primary importance. However, as a general rule, we find that donkeys make excellent mounts for beginning riders because of their patient, quiet nature and good common sense. They can be the best possible babysitter. There are things to consider when choosing a donkey for your child:
The first rule to observe is never get a donkey jack for your child! Though he may be sweet and docile by nature, he is still governed by strong natural instincts so his character is not consistent. He is a stud and must be treated as such.
Donkey jennets are good prospects for children provided they are not in heat or in foal. When a jennet is in heat she may become cross and if she is in foal, or has one at her side, she is also governed by instinct for the protection and welfare of her offspring.
The best possible mount for a child is a donkey gelding. He possesses all the positive traits of the donkey without being subject to primitive instincts. Since most donkeys are small in size and possess an affectionate attitude, they make excellent companions as well as mounts for children.
Since a donkey can became quite stubborn when treated badly, it is important that you take the time to help your child and donkey get started properly. Even an untried donkey with proper help can be a wonderful mount for a child. In the first few weeks, the child and donkey should simply spend time getting to know one another. Teach your child the correct way to handle and groom the donkey. The personal bond between them will develop on its own.
When your child and donkey have developed confidence in each other, you can begin to teach them the fundamentals of riding. Tack up the donkey in a small saddle and snaffle bridle and take him into a small pen on the lunge line. Allow your child to sit astride the donkey as he walks around you. Explain to your child the basics of turning and stopping with a direct rein, commonly called plow reining. Be sure to instruct the child not to pull hard or jerk the reins. Donkeys have very sensitive mouths and do not respond correctly when they are in pain.
Teach your child to use verbal commands in conjunction with the reins and leg cues. When he wants to go forward for instance, tell your child to ask the donkey to walk. Tell the child to squeeze with his legs – don’t just kick. He should get the desired response. If the child wishes to turn, tell him to ask the donkey to “Haw” (left) or “Gee” (right). Instruct the child to pull gently on the direct rein and push the donkey into the turn with the opposite leg. When stopping, tell the child to first say “Whoa,” and then pull gently on the reins and sit deeper in the saddle to initiate the stop. When the donkey complies with the commands given, do not be afraid to reward him. He will be more than willing to perform the next time you ask him.
Love and caresses are an excellent reward and a reward of crimped oats certainly does no harm. Donkeys are very appreciative animals. If the child and donkey are supervised correctly, it can greatly enhance the entire riding experience. The donkey will protect your child with his excellent judgment and the child will learn to be a patient and understanding person through interaction with his donkey. The reason is simple; donkeys will not respond unless treated fairly. Many an equestrian in Great Britain has spent his early years astride a donkey and have become better riders because of it! So if your child expresses an interest in riding, consider starting with a donkey gelding, or maybe even a jennet. Besides being patient with children, his size is more suitable, he has ample strength to carry them and is an easy keeper so feed and vet bills can usually be kept at a minimum.
What of the suitability of a mule for child? As the mule is half donkey, he possesses many of the fine characteristics that make him suitable for children. But at this point I must caution you that he is also part horse and will generally get his disposition from the mare. So if you wish to get a mule for your child, be sure he is an individual with a quiet disposition. Then you can consider such things as size, color and other traits. The right mule can be just as good a babysitter as the right donkey, and usually more reliable than any horse!
Children and donkeys or mules, have not been seen together much in this country in the more recent past. Perhaps it is because we have not given children a chance to show their Longears publicly. Realizing this need, as in horse shows, youth classes have been included in the Longears shows of today to encourage our youth to take an active interest in the promotion of Longears. The jobs these “kids” are doing with their mules and donkeys are marvelous and their contributions are extensive. The values learned by children when dealing with donkeys and mules will stand them in good stead throughout their lives, not to mention the joy they will discover in having such a companion. So during this season of giving, consider making Longears a part of your life and give a homeless donkey, burro or mule a chance. Your child will welcome this affectionate and sensible companion. If you adhere to the guidelines I have given to you, you should not be disappointed.
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.
Thank you to all the wonderful folks who have been helping. It has been a year.
Once again I acted on Faith and took Mia into the vet. Doc was wonderful about the fact she needed help asap. We have to get the bills wrapped up, but they are amazing and put Mia’s needs first.
I so appreciate the donations and milk support. These horses would literally not be alive without your love and support!
With 14 kids, all on milk, I am going through Foal Lac Pellets and Foal Lac Powder by the buckets. The costs to care for 21 horses, with hay, grain, vetting, shavings, milk, medicines etc. is astronomical. I have to catch up before the next kids get here. I have been told to “get ready to be slammed”.
MIA update – her paralysis is gone, PTL! The swelling in her neck went down and her nerves came back. She is still having huge issues with her right front leg, and tried to jump a 6 foot fence.Being trampled and attacked as a newborn instills a great deal of fear. She now has “Marbles’ with her and they are both slowly learning that they can safely hang out.
STANDING by for more babies still. It is never ending and oh so exhausting, but there are some very lucky kids here thanks to y’all!
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
As we write this, more and more wild horses and burros continue to be funneled into the slaughter pipeline through the the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) failed Adoption Incentive Program (AIP), which pays people $1,000 to adopt a wild, untamed horse or burro. Unscrupulous adopters are collecting the incentive payments, then sending the adopted mustangs or burros to slaughter auctions as soon as the money clears their bank accounts. Help us put an end to this shameful program >>
All the while, the BLM continues to round up wild horses and burros across the West, fueling this slaughter pipeline. The summer/fall roundup season is now in full swing — by the end of August, at least 1,400 wild horses and burros will be captured and removed from their homes on our public lands.
We have already filed suit against the BLM over the AIP and the federal laws they broke in the implementation of this program. And, we are also funding the rescue of innocent wild horses and burros who were “adopted” through this program and have ended up at kill pens — many just days or hours away from shipping to slaughter in Mexico or Canada.
In fact, we were just alerted to 10 BLM-branded burros up for sale in an Oklahoma kill pen. We know that burros are at a particularly high risk of being sent to slaughter through the AIP, giving us even more reason to help save these innocent animals. So we decided to offer a matching grant to help pay their bail!
BLM-branded burros being rescued from an Oklahoma kill pen.
We’re continuing to investigate the AIP and uncover the full breadth of the fraud and abuse that America’s mustangs and burros have suffered at the hands of this program.
Thanks to our months-long investigation, and an explosive New York Times exposé – we have delivered compelling evidence-filled reports to the BLM and we have worked with members of Congress to call for an immediate end to the AIP.
Thank you to our auction donors, things are looking up, but we’re not there yet!!
For the past 8 years AAE has received significant financial support from the auctions held during Boots & Bling. Unfortunately, we are still short of our goal for items to be auctioned during this year’s event. We are requesting urgent help with donations of experiences, destinations, services, and unique items that will inspire our horse-loving community to bid, helping fund the care, support, and feeding of the horses as well as the infrastructure needs of AAE.
Examples of auction items that could help bring in donations include airline miles, a vacation rental or timeshare, hotel stays, travel experiences, tickets to a sporting event or any event, a round of golf, a sailboat experience, an activity, a fishing trip, theatre tickets, an excursion, a wine tasting experience, a lunch date with a wizard, an educational opportunity, appliances (air conditioner, wood burning stove, refrigerator, grill, television, etc.), skis or a snowboard for the slopes, a boat, a truck, a trip to the Amazon, wine, beer, other spirits, gift cards of any kind, or any other ideas you might have!
We are truly an organization that is powered by our community through your support, donations, and volunteerism – please reach out through your network to secure auction items, helping AAE to continue rescuing animals in need. Even if you don’t have items to donate, if you have any ideas or contact info, that would be greatly appreciated, too! This year is especially important to us as we continue in our transition to the new property in Pilot Hill. We know the past year with Covid has been hard on everyone, but if you can find a way to give, please do.
The roundup of the beloved wild horses from the Onaqui Herd Management Area (HMA) in Utah has officially ended. In total, 435 mustangs were captured, and there was one death of a young mare who suffered a severely broken leg after she was likely kicked in the chaos of the trap.
Approximately 135 Onaqui horses will be released back into the wild and our friends at the Onaqui Catalogue Foundation are using their comprehensive database of the Onaqui herd to assist the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in making the best decisions possible about which horses to return based on thoughtful criteria like keeping family bands together.
For 50 years, the BLM has all but ignored the will of the American people who want humane management of our Western herds. It has flipped the Wild Free Roaming Horses and Burros Act on its head, and instead of protecting these animals from “capture, harassment, and death,” its outdated management practices actively harm these beloved animals. What’s worse — Congress has granted the agency more than $100 million dollars to continue on with this woefully mismanaged program with no restrictions to prevent the BLM from using the funds to roundup more horses without implementing real change.
But we have an opportunity to change course during the next federal budget cycle. In fact, the U.S. House of Representatives is set to pass Fiscal Year 22 appropriations legislation that includes language, championed by AWHC and U.S Representatives Dina Titus, Steve Cohen, and Mark Pocan, to require the BLM to allocate at least $11 million to implement humane fertility control as a step toward eliminating cruel roundups and evaluate relocating these federally protected animals as an alternative to their removal from the range. Very soon, the Senate Appropriations Committee will also consider this protective language.
Time is of the essence. Join us in a day of action for the Onaqui wild horses who lost their freedom, for Velma Johnston, aka “Wild Horse Annie,” whose work contributed to federal wild horse protection 50 years ago, and for the millions of Americans who want wild horses and burros to be protected and preserved on our public lands for generations to come.
Crippled baby MIA, NEEDS to go back to the vet. She has a 50/50 chance of recovering and healing from the paralysis in her spine.
I need to take her to Goldendale Veterinary today, but the bill is about $2,600 and I need to pay it asap.
Our bill at Harrah Veterinary is close to $1500 +/-.
Catcher called.. Babies in the trap. 3 and most likely more. One needs a big hernia repair, or she can go ???? However I cannot keep saving horses we can’t afford to take care of. There are also MORE coming. Do I say yes?
I’m really hoping I can get some of the funds for the vet bill, as Mia needs to go Today!
Thank you to all the wonderful folks who have been helping. It has been a year.
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
CRIPPLED NEWBORN & MAMA AT THE SHIPPER’S.I need to get him/her to the vet asap!!
VERY PREGNANT MARE ABOUT TO POP – ALSO AT THE SHIPPER’S.
Three more orphans arrived – one rushed to emergency vet for Plasma and treatment due to other horses attacking and biting her.New Vet bill is already over $1000
Grandpa Duke went into congestive heart failure, and is now running free in heaven.
Ellie was over 25 and not only starved, but extremely crippled with her coffin bone rotating through her hoof.
These cases are devastating and beyond heartbreaking. However, I got the call for the new babies before I even got home from taking the big kids in. As broken as I am, I don’t have time to grieve, because these new lives matter just as much.
Please help!
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
Late last night, advocates around the world waited with bated breath as we learned that the roundup of the beloved wild horses of the Onaqui Herd Management Area (HMA) had been postponed for another day. This was the second time in five days that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) postponed the roundup because of a pending federal court decision.
This morning, a federal judge denied an animal rights groups’ motion for an injunction to stop the roundup. The BLM then announced that the roundup will begin tomorrow.
Collectively, wild horse organizations threw everything we had at the effort to halt this roundup.
AWHC launched SaveOnaqui.com to mobilize our grassroots army, which resulted in thousands of messages sent to both Congress and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. We garnered 50,000 petition signatures and hand-delivered them to the U.S. Department of the Interior. We worked with actress Katherine Heigl on developing and delivering letters to Congress. We held a virtual rally attended by hundreds of people around the world. And, we worked with our friends at Western Watersheds Project to develop a detailed, scientifically-based proposa for long-term management of the Onaqui wild horses, which was reviewed at the highest levels of the BLM.
We want you to know that while we did not stop this roundup, our collective voices have been heard. The BLM understands the high public interest in protecting this herd and has committed to working on a collaborative plan to humanely and sustainably manage the iconic Onaqui horses and protect the public’s interest in viewing them.
This morning, AWHC’s Field Correspondent Kimerlee Curyl was with the Onaqui herd documenting what will likely be the last moments of freedom for many of these cherished mustangs.
These heartbreaking images only strengthen our resolve, but not just to ensure that this is the last helicopter roundup that ever takes place in the Onaqui HMA. We’re also working nonstop to reform the entire roundup-and-stockpile system that is leading to slaughter for far too many of these cherished animals.
Thanks to the many photographs who follow this herd, we know the Onaqui wild horses as individuals and families, and the prospect of their roundup is painful. But the reality is that all wild horses and burros are individuals who love their freedom and their families and suffer under the current federal management program.
P.S. — We’ll be on the ground to witness and document the removal of the Onaqui wild horses. Be sure to stay up to date on our social media channels for the latest: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
While making the entry to our first actual Combined Training event, I was excited, apprehensive and maybe even a little afraid! Questions raced through my mind: “Are we really ready for this? How will they receive my mule in an all-horse event?” Mae Bea C.T. and I had worked three long years for this moment. We’d been taking Dressage lessons from U.S.D.F. instructor/trainer Melinda Weatherford once a week for even longer, and Stadium and Cross Country jumping lessons for the past four years. We practiced Cross Country jumping at Beebe Draw in LaSalle and at Lory State Park in Fort Collins, Colorado, not far from our ranch. Now the day for actual Combined Training competition was drawing near.
The Preliminary and Training Levels were A.H.S.A. recognized. Would they even let us in the show at the U.S.C.T.A. recognized Novice level? After all, I was to be riding a mule! What would they think of her? Would she annoy anyone with her presence? Would she do anything to embarrass me? Would I do anything to embarrass myself? I desperately wanted to be able to test my skills under the real conditions that those with horses could do on a fairly regular basis. There were no Combined Training events strictly for mules. There just weren’t enough folks doing Combined Training with mules in any one area to warrant such a show. I had to rely on the generosity and kindness of those in the Mountain States Combined Training Association. Would they let us in? I didn’t know for sure, but I had nothing to lose by asking. All they could say was, “No!
Weeks passed as I waited to hear from them. I was on pins and needles! There had been so much talk and discrimination against mules competing in American Horse Show Association recognized events that I just didn’t know what to think. Clearly, they were not allowed by the A.H.S.A. and I understood that they did not want interference in competition for A.H.S.A. Championships.
However, the decision of whether they could compete in non-A.H.S.A. divisions was generally left to local show committees and technical delegates. I could stand it no longer! A week and a half before the competition I had to know, so I called Susan Robinson-Farmer, owner of Abbe Ranch and operator of the Abbe Ranch Horse Trials in Larkspur, Colorado, that was to be held on June 28-29, 1991. What a nice person she was!
Susan told me they had discussed the mule issue and asked me if there had been a mule that competed in the United States Combined Training Association earlier in the East somewhere? “Yes!” I replied enthusiastically. “That was Maryster Farm’s Kit, owned by Edith Conyers of Kentucky!” It was Kit who had inspired me to try Combined Training with a mule! We spoke for about twenty minutes and Susan kindly put my fears to rest. I assured her that we would do anything necessary to keep from interfering with the other competitors. All we wanted to do was to test our skills and to learn all we could from those with similar interests. The next day our ride times came in the mail and we were in!
The day before the show, I bathed and brushed Mae Bea C. T. until she shined! I braided her mane and tail, wrapped her legs and polished her hooves. I covered her with a light sheet, hoping that she wouldn’t get too dirty overnight. My excitement afforded me little sleep. The next morning Mae Bea C. T. reminded me that, first and foremost, she was a mule and loved dust baths! She was a disheveled mess, so again we bathed, brushed, braided, and polished!
During the drive from Loveland to Larkspur, I went over my Dressage test in my mind at least a hundred times. My daughter was going to ride her gray Hanoverian gelding, Polacca’s Prince, in the event. She thought her mother was being ridiculous to be so excited. My husband assured me that both the still-shot and video cameras had been packed and were with us to document this special event. It was still early morning and our dressage test time was not until 1:18 P.M. We arrived in plenty of time, but time flew by quickly and it was no time before we were warming up in the first practice arena. After about five minutes, the ring steward ushered us to the second practice arena. They were ahead of schedule! We were abruptly ushered out of the second practice arena and into the third, then the final arena for a last minute tune up.
Finally, we were ready! Mae Bea C. T. entered her Dressage test down the centerline with her hindquarters engaged, shoulders up and with the most active trot she has ever had! She seemed to sense that this was the time to do her very best! She halted squarely, I saluted the judge and she proceeded with the same enthusiasm. I was so excited that halfway through the test, I forgot where I was going! I couldn’t believe it! My mind just went blank! The little bell rang to remind me I was in error. It only took a few seconds to regain my composure and find my place again in the test. We were back on track and finished the test well with plenty of impulsion, rhythm with good cadence and totally relaxed for the first time ever in our Dressage experience.
As we exited the arena, I began to cry. I couldn’t believe that I had forgotten my test! There were a group of seasoned riders who leapt to my rescue as I exited the arena with stories about their own stupid mistakes. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive group of people! My coach, Melinda Weatherford, was also there to lend support as she did with all her students who competed. A smile once again graced my face.
Then I prepared to walk the Cross Country course for the following day’s ride with all the other student competitors. We had done a clinic on this course a few weeks before the event to familiarize all Melinda’s students with what would be expected. We had practiced specifically with water and bank jumps.
First, Melinda took all of us around the course, discussing strategy at each obstacle. Next, we all assembled for the official course walk. Dick and Susan Farmer gave us all a warm welcome and introduced us to Ground Juror, Jackie Fischer-Smith; Technical Delegate, Karen Bjorgen; Stabling Steward, Lee Thomas; Photographer, Tricia Jones; and our resident security guard. There were many other volunteers who helped the event run smoothly. I remember thinking, “What a friendly and enthusiastic group of people!” I was thrilled to be included! We took our official course walk, and then we headed to our motel for dinner and a good night’s sleep.
The next day, things were buzzing in anticipation of the Cross Country experience. We walked the course once more while the Preliminary Division riders were going out. As I took my place in the starting box at 12:18 P.M., people threw encouraging remarks our way, “Looking good! Good luck! Have a great ride! Now there’s class!”
“You are the classy ones for giving us such a warm welcome!” I thought silently.
Mae Bea C. T. came out of the starting box as she had seen the horses do before her. She wasn’t exactly sure what she was supposed to do. She jumped clean over the first two fences, but unsure of the rocks and railroad ties, she skidded to a halt at the third fence. We re-approached and cleared the third fence on the second attempt, after which she galloped freely and jumped the remaining fifteen fences with no problem. She finally figured it out and she loved it! So did I!
What a thrill! I think I was more tired than she was when we finally finished the course and rode in for our vet check. She passed, but the vet suggested that we needed more galloping in practice to improve her respiration. I wholeheartedly agreed! I knew then I had to improve my own respiration as well!
As we walked back to the trailer, there were more votes of confidence,”I’ll take that mule as my mount anytime! Good going! Great ride!” I swelled with pride and gratitude for such a wonderful experience.
A couple of hours later, Mae Bea C. T. and I cleared the eight fences in the Stadium Jumping phase of the event and finished in 8th place in the Pre-Novice Division.
This was considered very respectable for the first time ever in a formal horse trials competition. We cordially thanked everyone for giving us the opportunity to compete, for the support to keep us going and for the time of our lives!
There was a lot of work yet to do. We had to increase our stamina and strength. I spent a lot more time at home just galloping around the perimeter of our hayfield. It was a mile all the way around. My goal was to do three miles easily, so I began with one lap every other day. Over the following months, we worked our way up to three laps with 3-minute breaks between miles. We practiced galloping in three-point at schooling shows around Colorado and Wyoming, and soon found we were gaining stamina. The courses were becoming less stressful for both of us and we were having the time of our lives!
I needed to introduce Bea to a whole lot more types of jumps so she would be confident on the Cross Country course. We schooled at various clinics and participated in the smaller schooling shows to gain experience for another attempt at the Abbe Ranch Horse Trials at the Novice Level the next time.
By 1992, we were better prepared to again test our skills at the Abbe Ranch Horse Trials in the Novice Division. My heart was beating fast as we stood in the line-up with all those beautiful and talented horses. Our confidence and enthusiasm soared when we were placed second! The knowledge we had gleaned from the people at the first competition had paid off!
Then in 1993, Bea and I competed in the Novice Division again. They had changed the course and made it more challenging than before. There would be a water jump, bank jump and jumping over a wagon! We were lucky to have spent a lot of time practicing, so Bea and I felt more ready than ever! Still, I was a bit hesitant over the wagon jump…but I felt completely exhilarated afterwards!
We soared into the water jump with confidence, alacrity and even a bit of grace!
Bea placed first over 56 horses in the Dressage phase at her third show, and won the Novice Division overall! I couldn’t have been more pleased with my beautiful little mule! Bea was a real star! I will always remember the warmth and consideration we received from everyone at the event and how the little mule that would, became the little mule that could!
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.
Over the last several months our Government Relations team has been working in collaboration with members of Congress to ensure that the interests of wild horses and burros are represented during the FY 2022 Appropriations process.
We are excited to report that the House Appropriations Committee just passed the Fiscal Year 2022 Interior Appropriations spending bill and it includes important language championed by AWHC and U.S. Representatives Steve Cohen (D-TN), Dina Titus (D-NV), Mark Pocan (D-WI), and over 40 other Representatives!
If included in the final spending bill passed by the House and Senate, this legislation will continue the ban on slaughtering wild horses and burros, require the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to allocate at least $11 million to implement fertility control programs to manage wild horse and burro populations, evaluate relocating these federally protected animals as an alternative to removals, and review the “Adoption Incentive Program,” (AIP) which was exposed by the AWHC as a pipeline to slaughter for hundreds of wild horses and burros.
This is a win for wild horses — but our work isn’t done. We’re currently working with several Senators to urge the Senate Appropriations Committee to adopt similar language.
Our next steps are very important, Meredith. We’re extremely concerned that an increase in funding to the BLM will continue the Trump Administration’s wild horse management plan, which calls for the removal of over 90,000 wild horses and burros from public lands over the next five years.
He is emaciated, can barely walkand had blood coming from his mouth. Once again, I acted on Faith. I had to say yes. I am not sure if I can save him, but he will get the very best care possible and is already getting so much love.One look and my heart was done. Those sad, worried eyes just stole my soul.
I was called for 3 urgent, emergency cases. The mare Ellie is on her way to starving and has an old, obviously very painful injury to her leg. She is in extremely poor shape and needs medical attention for her leg immediately.
Prada is a quarter pony with a bad head injury that was left untreated due to the fact she is wild.Her miracle is that she escaped being shipped once, only to end up back in the shipping pen at the auction, headed to slaughter again. The fact that the injury on her face is getting worse is definitely concerning, and she needs immediate medical care.
Apparently this seems to be an “every day” thing?It will take roughly $2500 to save all THREE of these kids, (Bail, vetting, medications, groceries, transport etc.) That will most likely be a drop in the bucket of what it will take to get them healthy and ready for adoption. Doc is already schedule for tomorrow morning and I can only pray we can save all of them.
Please help if you can, and THANK YOU for all you do. I understand the need is constant and probably annoying – but I HAVE TO ask for help when God puts one of these souls in front of me. I will do the work, but can’t provide what they need without your love and support!
(We NOW HAVE 18 horses scheduled for Coggins on Friday morning. So our vet bills keep on coming.)
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
It’s hard to see what I am writing, as the tears keep pouring down my face. My beautiful Ghost and my Moose are gone. Yesterday I had to answer their pleas to end their suffering. It’s hard to even breathe, yet “time to grieve” doesn’t seem to be mine.
Hours ago, I was sorting horses, opening gates while the tears slid down. I needed to be ready for the group I was called to save this morning.
When there are literally 6 more lives at stake, you keep wiping away the tears and “git ‘er done”, no matter how badly you want to scream “no more”. There are times when I simply don’t know how to keep going.
It seems like no matter how much you cry, the pain just follows you. All I know is is God keeps putting these special needs kids in front of me. So as long as He gives me the strength, and Y’all keep making it possible with your love n support, I will try to keep saving these precious lives.
Their is so much hospice type care this year, it’s unreal.
We have 15 horses scheduled for Coggins on Friday morning. So our vet bills keep on coming. Sadly the new kids still want their milk as well, so as always the need continues, and once again I used funds for milk to actually “save” the babies.
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
Last month, we sent a legal petition to the Department of the Interior, giving it until June 30, 2021 to shut down the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) failed Adoption Incentive Program (AIP). Unfortunately, Meredith, the Interior Department failed to respond to our petition.
So now, in collaboration with several of our partners — Skydog Sanctuary, Evanescent Mustang Rescue, and photographer Carol Walker — we have filed suit against the BLM to put an end to the AIP.
We have provided the Interior Department with clear evidence that the BLM violated several federal laws when creating the AIP, and that the program has resulted in a significant uptick in the number of wild horses and burros entering the slaughter pipeline. But so far the response is just an internal “review” with no halting of the program — meaning that BLM horses and burros continue to be sent to kill pens through the AIP.
Since uncovering this slaughter pipeline, which led to a New York Times exposé earlier this year, we’ve been working nonstop to put an end to this disastrous program. We’ve worked with Senator Dianne Feinstein and 30+ other members of Congress urging the Interior Department to suspend the program and conduct a thorough investigation.
The lives of hundreds of wild horses and burros are at stake, Meredith. The Interior Department has failed to appropriately respond to our requests to end this program. So with no signs of stopping from the BLM — we’ve now taken legal action to ensure that the AIP program is terminated.
What’s included? A table for 12 in a preferred seating location plus your family name or company logo with link on all event-related marketing & advertising!
Gather your family, friends, riding buddies,
co-workers, & fellow animal lovers, and enjoy a fun-filled evening
at a table together to benefit horses in need!
The Herd Table Sponsorship is not available after July 7.
This event sold out in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019.
Our 8th Annual Boots and Bling event (in-person) will be held
Saturday, August 21st at 4pm
at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds.
This event will feature a BBQ dinner by BlackJack Grill, DJ music and dancing, and our awesome live and silent auctions.
Boots & Bling Still Needs Your Help!
For the past 8 years AAE has received significant financial support from the auctions held during Boots & Bling. Unfortunately right now we are well short of our goal for items to be auctioned during this year’s event on August 21. We are requesting urgent help in finding experiences, services, and unique items that will inspire our horse-loving community to bid, helping fund the care, support, and feeding of the horses as well as the infrastructure needs of AAE.
Examples of auction items that could help bring in donations include airline miles, a vacation rental or timeshare, a travel experience, tickets to a sporting event or other event, a round of golf, a sailboat experience, an activity, a fishing trip, theatre tickets, an excursion, a wine tasting experience, a lunch date with a wizard, an educational opportunity, appliances (air conditioner, wood burning stove, refrigerator, grill, television, etc.), skis or a snowboard for the slopes, a boat, a truck, a trip to the Amazon, or any other ideas you might have!
We are truly an organization that is powered by our community through your support, donations, and volunteerism – please reach out through your network to secure auction items, helping AAE to continue rescuing animals in need. Even if you don’t have items to donate, if you have any ideas or contact info, that would be greatly appreciated, too! This year is especially important to us as we continue in our transition to the new property in Pilot Hill. We know the past year with Covid has been hard on everyone, but if you can find a way to give, please do.
For the past 8 years AAE has received significant financial support from the auctions held during Boots & Bling. Unfortunately right now we are well short of our goal for items to be auctioned during this year’s event on August 21. We are requesting urgent help in finding experiences, services, and unique items that will inspire our horse-loving community to bid, helping fund the care, support, and feeding of the horses as well as the infrastructure needs of AAE.
Examples of auction items that could help bring in donations include airline miles, a vacation rental or timeshare, a travel experience, tickets to a sporting event or other event, a round of golf, a sailboat experience, an activity, a fishing trip, theatre tickets, an excursion, a wine tasting experience, a lunch date with a wizard, an educational opportunity, appliances (air conditioner, wood burning stove, refrigerator, grill, television, etc.), skis or a snowboard for the slopes, a boat, a truck, a trip to the Amazon, or any other ideas you might have!
We are truly an organization that is powered by our community through your support, donations, and volunteerism – please reach out through your network to secure auction items, helping AAE to continue rescuing animals in need. Even if you don’t have items to donate, if you have any ideas or contact info, that would be greatly appreciated, too! This year is especially important to us as we continue in our transition to the new property in Pilot Hill. We know the past year with Covid has been hard on everyone, but if you can find a way to give, please do.
THANK YOU!
The Herd Sponsorship is only around for a few more days!
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to have a table for 12 in a preferred seating location plus have your family name or company logo with link on all event-related marketing & advertising!
Ghost is still hanging in there. Both Doc’s give him maybe a 50/50 chance to survive, and he will most likely be blind and deaf, if he does survive.
I was asked by one of the catchers to take a wild mare who appeared to have twins. He felt they would not survive and of course I said yes. I am absolutely running on faith right now. There was no time with any of these rescues to stop and fundraise 1st.
Thankfully he made the right call. “Mama” ? was not letting them nurse, and BOTH of the babies have high fevers and one of them has raging scours. (You can always tell a baby is really sick when the waste smells like death.) One of them was bitten through the face. Both Doc and I felt the open injury inside of the mouth. He is on antibiotics, as is his “brother”. Neither would have survived without medical care and antibiotics.
I got a call to pick up “Moose” this afternoon. It appears he is blind as well. He is a super sweet, really big boy and cannot seem to see what is right in front of him. This year has been insane for injury and illness. God keeps putting them in front of me, so I will fight for them as long as they want.
YOU guys are awesome. Your love and support is what makes it happen.
Thank you for EVERYTHING Y’ALL DO! None of this would be possible without you!
INCLUDING GHOST, I have gotten 15 in the last 4?? days. I am no where near prepared. We had some wonderful donations and I thought for a minute we would be ok with milk. However, with all the new ones, we are quickly running out of supplies as it takes funds we planned to spend on milk, vet bills etc., to simply “save these lives”.
It is truly unbelievable how much milk I go through every day.
I am literally “on standby” for more as I type this.
If you would like to help with our ongoing vet bills,
HARRAH VETERINARY 509 848-2943
GOLDENDALE VET CLINIC 509 773-0369
If you would like to order FOAL LAC & send milk, (Or baby wipes, vaseline, gloves, Foal Response, Foal Lac Pellets, syringes, Probios etc.)
This is the link to our Chilly Pepper’s Wild Horse & Orphan Foal Adoption Page,where you can see the progress and new lives of the horses YOU HAVE HELPED SAVED! (I can’t believe I didn’t do this years ago, but it is so fun to see the horses, babies and critters that are enjoying and thriving in their new lives.)
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.
By Meredith Hodges 
Since a donkey can became quite stubborn when treated badly, it is important that you take the time to help your child and donkey get started properly. Even an untried donkey with proper help can be a wonderful mount for a child. In the first few weeks, the child and donkey should simply spend time getting to know one another. Teach your child the correct way to handle and groom the donkey. The personal bond between them will develop on its own. 
When your child and donkey have developed confidence in each other, you can begin to teach them the fundamentals of riding. Tack up the donkey in a small saddle and snaffle bridle and take him into a small pen on the lunge line. Allow your child to sit astride the donkey as he walks around you. Explain to your child the basics of turning and stopping with a direct rein, commonly called plow reining. Be sure to instruct the child not to pull hard or jerk the reins. Donkeys have very sensitive mouths and do not respond correctly when they are in pain. 
Love and caresses are an excellent reward and a reward of crimped oats certainly does no harm. Donkeys are very appreciative animals. If the child and donkey are supervised correctly, it can greatly enhance the entire riding experience. The donkey will protect your child with his excellent judgment and the child will learn to be a patient and understanding person through interaction with his donkey. The reason is simple; donkeys will not respond unless treated fairly. Many an equestrian in Great Britain has spent his early years astride a donkey and have become better riders because of it! So if your child expresses an interest in riding, consider starting with a donkey gelding, or maybe even a jennet. Besides being patient with children, his size is more suitable, he has ample strength to carry them and is an easy keeper so feed and vet bills can usually be kept at a minimum. 
characteristics that make him suitable for children. But at this point I must caution you that he is also part horse and will generally get his disposition from the mare. So if you wish to get a mule for your child, be sure he is an individual with a quiet disposition. Then you can consider such things as size, color and other traits. The right mule can be just as good a babysitter as the right donkey, and usually more reliable than any horse! 
