I did not know a horse could bring people into your life that end up meaning the most to you.
I did not know a horse could make the hardest days of your life bearable.
I did not know a horse could teach you to put others first.
I did not know a horse could remind you time and time again that your gut is always right.
I did not know a horse could break your heart.
I did not know a horse could pick you up when you have fallen apart.
I did not know a horse could teach you to dream again, after you thought it was not possible.
I did not know a horse could make you believe in yourself.
I did not know a horse could teach responsibility, work ethic, and dedication.
I did not know a horse could make you believe in something when no one else does.
I did not know a horse could make you learn to forgive and forget.
I did not know a horse could humble you faster than you can say humble.
I did not know a horse could make you a winner.
I did not know a horse could also teach you how to lose gracefully.
I did not know a horse could instill patience in you.
I did not know a horse could make you listen better.
I did not know a horse could give you their heart.
I did not know a horse could change your life.
I did not know a horse could do all these things…
…..but now I know.
A Christmas Story
In years past, today would be story 25 of our 31 stories for 2021. Well, suffice it to say, we’ve been really busy with The Big Move to Pilot Hill. We’ll have more on that coming soon; until then, we have the most heartwarming story to share. Many of you know how much we love our oldies, and AAE just had the good fortune to make a Christmas miracle come true for one ol’ guy.
AAE was asked to help with an old donkey. We were really hoping to find a new buddy for our lil’ Sammy, but because we’re smack dab in the midst of our transition to our new property, there was no way we could provide the type of care and housing this ol’ guy needed. That said, we knew there must be a way we could help.
Because who can resist these old ears, “the way” came to us. It was kismet. It didn’t take long for the answer to come to light. We got a call from one of our AAE families with an ol’ mare in urgent need of a companion, and it was an ideal situation. There was no question, it was meant to be.
Meet the newest member of AAE’s class of ’21, his name is Figgy Puddin’. When we were told it was old donkey that was all alone, we had no idea they meant really old…and really special. Would you believe, he’s 45. He’s quite arthritic, but he’s an incredibly sweet old man (really, really!).
He perked up when we told him we’d figure it out. We learned what we could, but there wasn’t much history available, but our best guess was that this guy hadn’t spent much time in a trailer, so we thought we were in for a long afternoon, especially considering his arthritis. Much to our surprise, when he hobbled to the trailer with us, Mr. Figgy tried to load. His ol’ joints were pretty stiff, and the step up was quite a reach for him. We helped him….one leg up, then another leg up. He looked like he was on top o’ the world. With a little ass-istance with his behind, he was up and in, and headed for the corner feeder. There was no resistance, no fight, no struggle….just an obliging ol’ guy ready to hit the road. (He got a little medical support to help him with the trip, too). Before we knew it, we were on the road.
We had a slow, easy ride, and when we arrived, this ol’, arthritic guy leapt out of the trailer like a spry guy that had done it a million times. He let out a big bray, and we can only hope he was saying, “It’s about time you got me outta there (the trailer)”.
He glanced around, and their eyes met. First the goats.
Then the girl!
We don’t think it was love at first sight, right?
His new mom took one look at his as he was exiting the trailer, and she said she loved him already. She assured him it was going to be ok.
We think he understood and enjoyed the loving hug and wanted another!
Before long, the two mosied off for a little grub. We were all relieved with how quickly Figgy settled in. He’s eating well, and so far, seems very content. It’s a lot of change for an old donk, but we’re hopeful he’ll transition ok. He’ll be spoiled with lots of love and kindness ’til the end. Once he’s settled in in a few days, he’ll get an eval so he can get some much needed hoof and dental care. He’s getting a new blanket, and whatever else he needs.
Til then, he wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas!
Catered BBQ dinner, no host bar (beer and wine), DJ Music and dancing, and fabulous live, silent, and dessert auctions.
We are grateful we can celebrate together in person this year!
Thank you for your support – We can’t wait to see you all tomorrow!
Due to the Caldor Fire postponement,
we MAY have a small number of tickets available for walk-in guests,
but no guarantees at this point
Boots & Bling Silent Auction!
If you aren’t able to attend in person, but still want to join the fun and support AAE, the silent auction is open in person AND online this year! We have some wonderful and exciting items available! The live auctions are exclusive to attendees.
Registration for the silent auction is open now. Once registered, you can preview items until the auction opens. Bidding starts at 4p (PST) tonight, Saturday, October 16. The auction closes at 6p (PST).
We look forward to celebrating with everyone tomorrow and raising more funds to help more horses into 2022. Horses like Maisy and Trace!
Maisy
Sweet Maisy is getting better every day. She’s got a few more days of treatment to go, and so far, so good. We’re looking forward to learn more about this gal. Keep your fingers crossed all continues to go well.
Trace
This guy, Trace, is healing well and feelin’ good. He’s gone from nearly losing an eye and resulting limited vision to an incredibly positive outcome. He does NOT have cancer, he will not lose his eye, and he will be coming out of retirement to go back to work serving the community. Look how well that incision is healing! High five to Trace and the docs at LBEMC!
There’s no rest for the weary. AAE is having a challenging September with three hospitalizations. The bright light is that two special horses are are getting a second chance at life because of you.
This sweet mare is in the hospital now, and she has a long road ahead.
She was dropped off at the vet for euthanasia because she’s been sick with a respiratory issue (non-contagious). Now she has a new life.
What matters is that we got the call, and we offered her a true second chance. Thankfully, owner agreed she could be saved if someone would take her.
We’ll have more photos to share soon. Please say some prayers for this young lady!
It happened not only once, but twice! This young man, now known as Trace, was retired from service from a local mounted police unit. He developed some swelling in his left eye due to a mass. After a series of diagnostics, there was not a definitive answer, but cancer was at the top of the list, and eye removal was likely part of his future. He was retired from service, but this guy was still so full of life.
We took a chance on this guy hoping, if nothing else, we’d be able to offer his a retirement filled with TLC while nature took its course.
Once at AAE, we discussed two more diagnostic options for a biopsy to get a more definitive diagnosis, either by scoping his sinus or by going into his frontal sinus.
So, off the to the vet he went so we could get a peak inside. The scope was inconclusive. Much to everyone’s surprise, once in the sinus, it appeared to be a cyst causing the swelling.
Tissue samples were collected and sent of to the lab, and Trace came back to the barn for a while. Several days later, we got some good news and some not so good news. Good news was the tissue was not cancer. Not so good news was that Trace needed another surgery to remove the cyst and make sure there was nothing more going on inside there.
Thankfully, the docs removed the cyst, cleaned things up, and put this handsome guy back together again. After post-op checks, he was released with great news. Though there is a slight chance the cyst could return, he has an excellent prognosis.
He is home and doing incredibly well. He’s demanding at feed time, and he’s not skipped a beat.
We are incredibly grateful that because of all of you, Trace also has a second chance at a new life.
As many of you know, our sweet Daisy crossed the Rainbow Bridge last week after an extended hospitalization for a prolonged colic. Trace’s first surgery was scheduled the same day Daisy went into the hospital. Needless to say, our vet budget took a big hit this month. If you’re able to donate toward their hospitalization costs, know your help has truly offered second chances for both of these lucky souls!
Today, we are mourning the loss of our sweetest Daisy. Our girl had a challenging nine days of ups and downs, and yesterday, we helped her across the Rainbow Bridge to set her free to run across green pastures with her ol’ friends, Angus and Kasey.
Daisy came to AAE in 2016 with her big buddies, Angus and Kasey, after a family health crisis. She was six. Angus and Kasey were older draft fellas, much beloved AAE residents that have since passed. Lil Daisy was the boss of these two big guys, and she exerted her authority when it came to meal time!
Everyone was so fascinated by Daisy. From Marshallow and Patches to the rest of the farm critters….well, except maybe the sheep! It didn’t take long for the herd’s hierarchy to play out.
Daisy had the best ears in the world. Besides adorable, they were soft and fuzzy, and though she thoroughly enjoyed her spa days, her favorite was ear massages. She loved having her ears rubbed.
She was a big character, too. Her lil’ personality was precious. There was countless moments of laughter when Daisy was around.
Those of you that know Daisy know that her bestest friend was lil’ ol’ Sammy-boy. This little guy is going to miss her sooooooo very much. Please keep him in your prayers and send him lots of love. For now, he’s settling in with the mini boys, Flame, Robbie, and Dusty. It seems Flame’s wisdom understands his broken heart the best. Hang in there Sammy, you’ll have lots of love to help you along.
What I’ll miss most about this sweet girl was the softness of her muzzle and the kindness in her mouth. She gave the most loving nuzzles and nibbles, always a warm, fuzzy moment from her. If you experienced those lips, you’ll know what I mean. Kind of odd from the lil woolly mammoth.
Oh, Dais…it was so long before your time. Thank you for giving everyone such wonderful memories….sweet, cute, precious, warm, kind, funny, and all the gamut of emotions. You were such a sweet and special soul. You were loved by many, and we’ll remember you, always.
Daisy spent the last nine days hospitalized at Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center where the docs worked hard to resolve her colicky symptoms. She initially improved, then had some ups and downs, we had encouraging days, but the last couple days became very difficult, to say the least. In the end, there was nothing more we could do to ease her pain. We thank everyone for the love, support, concern, and warm words during this time. As many of you know, the costs of care for hospitalization can be challenging. If you’d like to make a donation to AAE in memory of Daisy, we would very much appreciate the opportunity to pay it forward to the next equine in need.
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.
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!
She went in for treatment last week for a large, deep ulcer her right eye. She has also been treated for uveitis in the left eye, and while at the clinic, they found a pinpoint-sized ulcer on the left eye. On Saturday morning, we got the call that the eye with the ulcer ruptured, and before long, Zena had surgery to remove her right eye. Fortunately, the ulcer in the left eye resolved quickly!
We’re happy she’s home, and we hope she’s happy to be back with her AAE family.
We’re not sure! Well, she’s her big, beasty self, but she seems a bit nervous and agitated. She’ll settle in and adapt soon. Losing vision is not something anyone wants to experience. Fortunately, horses can do very well with one eye. Many of you remember Ralphie, and some even remember Angus? Zena will get better, so continue to send more of your healing energies her way.
Heartfelt thanks to all that have donated and shared in support of her treatment and care costs, and now surgery costs.
Not only do we need your support, we need your help to spread the word.
Share our Posts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
BOOTS IS BACK!!!
We are so excited our 8th Annual Boots and Bling event is scheduled (in-person), Saturday August 21st at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This event will feature a BBQ dinner, DJ music, and live, silent, and dessert auctions. We hope you will be able to join us! Stay tuned for more information to come!
Would you like to help? We are looking for volunteers to help with event planning, decor, ticket sales, sponsorship, auction item donations, and more.
We got some not so good news this morning. Zena’s right eye, the good eye, lost the battle with the ulcer; her right eye ruptured. As a result, she needed surgery to remove the eye. Fortunately, everything went well, and she’ll be coming home soon.
We will be happy to have her back at the barn soon to help her adjust to a new world. Her left eye is doing much better and will likely require ongoing treatment for uveitis. Fortunately, uveitis can me managed long term if it doesn’t resolve.
Please send Zena some healing thoughts!
Need to catch up on Zena’s health situation? Read about it here.
Thank you to the supporters who have already donated towards her care. We are so grateful for our community!
If you’re able to help with her surgery and additional care costs, Zena and everyone at AAE would appreciate your support.
Not only do we need your support, we need your help to spread the word.
Share our Posts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
BOOTS IS BACK!!!
We are so excited our 8th Annual Boots and Bling event is scheduled (in-person), Saturday August 21st at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This event will feature a BBQ dinner, DJ music, and live, silent, and dessert auctions. We hope you will be able to join us! Stay tuned for more information to come!
Would you like to help? We are looking for volunteers to help with event planning, decor, ticket sales, sponsorship, auction item donations, and more.
To recap, if you didn’t catch last week’s email, Zena, our 26-ish year old Percheron mare, has been experiencing eye issues. She’s been experiencing chronic uveitis in her left eye. It has been managed with meds/treatment, but not resolving. It is very painful!
A couple weeks ago, she developed a large and dangerously deep ulcer on her right eye, which is also very painful! Sadly, this put her vision at risk.
After several days of treatment, the ulcer was not improving, so she was hospitalized at Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center for a procedure to support her right eye and to provide treatment every two hours.
During an exam, a pinpoint-sized ulcer was also found on her left eye.
More frequent treatment did not improve the right (good) eye, so on Friday, Zena had a procedure called a Tarsorrhaphy. I can’t say it, but it’s a surgical procedure in which the eyelids are partially sewn together to narrow the eyelid opening to protect the cornea and keep it moist. (If you zoom in on the photo of Zena above and look closely, you can see her sutures) However, it’s not without risk! The dilemma is, it provides good protection, but the ulcer is covered and not visible to monitor. The sutures will be removed in a few days to see how the eye is progressing, but thankfully so far, so good.
The other good news, the ulcer on the left eye has resolved, but sadly, the uveitis flared again, so she’ll continue with treatment of the left eye, too.
Zena is expected to stay at LBEMC for at least a few more days.
Thank you to the generous donors that have helped support some of the costs for her care. As you can imagine, the costs for hospitalization and treatment continue to grow.
If you’re able to help, Zena would appreciate your support. If everyone that can will help a little, it will make a big difference for this sweet, big gal.
Not only do we need your support, we need your help to spread the word.
Share our Posts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
BOOTS IS BACK!!!
We are so excited our 8th Annual Boots and Bling event is scheduled (in-person), Saturday August 21st at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This event will feature a BBQ dinner, DJ music, and live, silent, and dessert auctions. We hope you will be able to join us! Stay tuned for more information to come!
Would you like to help? We are looking for volunteers to help with event planning, decor, ticket sales, sponsorship, auction item donations, and more.
Because of your generous donations, opens, shares, positive thoughts, and simple kindness, you raised over $22,000 to help make a better world for horses.
“Thank You”, those two little words that mean so very, VERY much!
ZENA UPDATE!
Zena is undergoing another procedure today to protect her eye while she tries to heal. The ulcer in her right eye is dangerously deep. Vision in her left eye is already at risk due to uveitis, so we need to do what we can to make sure the “good” eye is able to heal. One of the surgeon’s at Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center will suture her eyelids partially closed to protect her eye and keep it moist. As with all procedures, there are risks, so this big girl needs some healing thoughts her way.
Thank you all for making this possible for Zena.
If you missed the opportunity to give big yesterday, you can still help Zena by giving today.
We are so excited our 8th Annual Boots and Bling event is scheduled (in-person), Saturday August 21st at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This event will feature a BBQ dinner, DJ music, and live, silent, and dessert auctions. We hope you will be able to join us! Stay tuned for more information to come!
Would you like to help? We are looking for volunteers to help with event planning, decor, ticket sales, sponsorship, auction item donations, and more.
Let’s keep the momentum going! There are a few hours left to Give!! The horses at AAE are counting on you!!! It is with your support that AAE is able to Rescue, Rehabilitate and Rehome these beautiful animals! Do it for the horses!
Help us raise critical funds for the horses at AAE! EVERY DONATION COUNTS!
Thank you for your support, you are helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, shopping, sharing, & liking
saves horses, one life at a time!
We are so excited our 8th Annual Boots and Bling event is scheduled (in-person), Saturday August 21st at the El Dorado County Fairgrounds. This event will feature a BBQ dinner, DJ music, and live, silent, and dessert auctions. We hope you will be able to join us! Stay tuned for more information to come!
Would you like to help? We are looking for volunteers to help with event planning, decor, ticket sales, sponsorship, auction item donations, and more.
Taking a moment to wish you all a Happy Valen-swine’s Day from our newest intakes – Oliver & Oscar! These two ol’ guys came recently from a with a couple of horses from distressed sanctuary. They are senior, very overweight potbelly pigs in much need of some TLC. We have been playing phone tag with the piggy doc and will know more soon.
Hogs & kisses! We appreciate all of your love & support.
NEED A LITTLE MORE IN YOUR LIFE?
These beauties are all lookin’ for their lifelong LOVE!
Learn more about each horse by clicking on its name
Thank you for joining us this month as we shared stories from the barn that showed how your support helped horses this year. As we say good-bye to 2020 and ring in 2021, we are reflecting on our blessings from this year and what we would like to accomplish in the new year. We have a few resolutions for 2021! Top of the list is to find forever homes for all of our adoptable horses that didn’t find a person of their own in 2020. We don’t want them to wait any longer! Each of them deserves to have a loving family. Learn more about all of our adoptable horses below. Who knows – maybe you’ll be one of our featured stories next December! Another goal for the new year is to find generous supporters for each of the horses. If you (or someone you know) isn’t looking for a new live-in friend for 2021 but still want to support one of our horses, consider becoming a sponsor. Learn more about our sponsorship program. With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity, support, and kindness. It is because of YOU that we were able to help 31 horses in need and placed 23 in their forever homes. Sadly, we lost 9 precious lives. Overall, that makes 318 intakes and 254 adoptions since we started in 2009. We end the year with 48 horses at AAE. We couldn’t do this work without the help of our horse-loving community. Thank you!
AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION
Learn more about each horse by clicking on its name.
If you are interested in exploring adoption,
please submit an Adoption Inquiry via the website.
This holiday season please consider making a year end donation to assure AAE has funding to continue the work we do and have similar stories to share in 2021.
As we count down to 2021, join us every day this month as we share stories from the barn that show how your support has helped horses in 2020.
With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity and support.
In Honor Of
RUSTY, RUBY, and HOPE
As we approach the last post of 2020, we can’t leave the year behind without a special memory of three more horses. Not only was this year difficult with all of the impacts of COVID, but if you’ve been with us all year, you probably know it was a year of difficult losses. From 2009 through 2019, we’d lost 12 horses, many severe colics, some illness, a pasture accident, and a few with quality of life issues. (We do not euthanize to make space). This year was exceptionally difficult with loss of 9 lives (5 horses, 1 mini horse, 1 donkey, 1 mini donkey, and 1 goat). We’ve include stories of six so far. Three that remain were too special to not honor their memory one more time. I’ve relived them all the last 30 days, and they’ve weighed heavy, especially with the loss of Hardy just a few days ago. So, making it a little lighter on me….I’m keeping it brief. It doesn’t mean we won’t miss these three that touched so many people while here: Rusty, Ruby, and Hope.
RUSTY
Rusty was a 1986 Arabian that came to AAE in August of 2010 when his owner was facing deployment. Rusty was like a fixture at AAE until he passed April 16, 2020. Sadly, we were in the middle of COVID stay at home orders, and due to COVID fears, our care team had reduced to a skeleton crew. You can read Rusty’s story from earlier this year here.
RUBY
Ruby was a 1987-ish grade mare that came to AAE with her weeks old colt (Gem) in May of 2011. Yes, Ruby had a foal at about 24! Ruby left us on Christmas Eve 2013 to be a companion to an older horse, then came back in 2014 when he passed. She was a very sweet mare and was Rusty’s pal in the end. You can read Ruby’s story from earlier this year here.
HOPE
Hope was a 1998 grade Andalusian/Lusitano mare that came to AAE in February 2020 just prior to the COVID-19 stay at home order. She had been suffering from a horrific eye tumor for about two years. She was an incredibly brave mare that seemed so appreciative for the help. Hope was only here a short while, but she touched so many people with her kindness and gratitude. You can read Hope’s story from earlier this year here. Rusty, Ruby, and Hope left huge hoofprints on our hearts for a multitude of reasons. They were much loved and will never be forgotten.
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Give the gift that keeps on giving by sponsoring a horse on behalf of a horse-loving friend or family member!
As a sponsor, your annual or monthly contribution helps support the costs of care for a specific horse.
You can sponsor at any level or any amount you choose. You will receive an electronic “gift letter” with a photo of an AAE horse, acknowledging your gift on behalf of your recipient.
The Patriotic US Flag/Mustang image on front and Mustang is My Favorite Breed (or Rescue is My Favorite Breed) in white on back. Available in Black, Ash Gray, Navy, and Brown.
Orders may be picked up at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs or
Stop by the AAE Used Tack Store to find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life! Don’t know what they need? We have gift cards, too!
Here are more ways you can help!
Doing any winter cleaning? Donate your gently used tack to AAE’s Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs. We very much appreciate tack donations delivered to the store in sale ready condition (e.g. clean, conditioned, oiled). Please email tack@allaboutequine.org for information about donating or to schedule a delivery.
Proceeds from used tack sales help pay for feed, veterinary expenses, and other operational needs.
As we count down to 2021, join us every day this month as we share stories from the barn that show how your support has helped horses in 2020.
With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity and support.
BLUE UPDATE
Remember this guy? Blue came to AAE from Nevada in March of 2017 after a request for assistance from the Virginia Range Wild Horse Sanctuary and Hidden Valley Wild Horse Protection Fund. Blue had been carrying around a large mass of proud flesh (granulation tissue) over his left rear fetlock/pastern area for some time. Although he had been haltered and handled some previously, he was not halterable when he arrived at AAE. We knew we had a big job ahead in helping Blue.
Before we could evaluate the mass, he had to be gentled and easily halterable, and his legs/hooves had to be readily handlable for frequent bandage changes after surgery. With a straightforward mustang, not a big deal, but Blue had some substantial fear/trust issues. Initial efforts with befriending and haltering him were lukewarm. Thanks to Dr. Stolba and Team LBEMC (throughout Blue’s journey), he had made enough progress that we were able to sedate him, radiograph the bony area beneath the mass, and collect tissue samples for biopsy. We wanted to make sure there was not an underlying reason for the mass before getting too deep into corrective measures if they would be for naught. It was not an easy feat. Even with heavy sedation, he kicked quickly and with purpose.
Radiographs and biopsy detected no obvious issues, so the work continued. Weeks in, Blue seemed to have had a reaction to something and developed a mysterious condition that turned out to be a form of vasculitis. He developed sores/ulcers throughout his entire mouth. The first layer of tissue pulled off with any type of pressure. They were horribly painful. Though his history and symptoms didn’t suggest, we had to quarantine him and test him for vesicular stomatitis. Thankfully, it was negative. We scaled back our efforts to reduce his stress and allow him to heal. But, the mass was growing and oozing, and flies and yellow jackets swarmed the oozy mass.
After several weeks, he improved, and we resumed course. He would take a few steps forward, then a couple steps back. Finally, after many weeks with nominal results, we had a marathon day. We worked until we broke through. Six hours, he accepted handling and touching all over, and we practiced bandaging and removing bandage, over and over. The next day, our learning curve was much shorter, and the next and the next, until finally, we could halter, touch all over, and pick up his left hind and handle it all over. We practiced with big, bulky bandaging materials again, wrapped it up, and he was a gem!
We scheduled surgery, and in late August 2017, he lost nearly seven pounds in a matter of minutes. The mass had a narrow base and truly looked like a big brain. It weighed in at nearly seven pounds. Imagine what that must have felt like with every move. Needless to say, it was done!
However, the mouth lesions returned. There were more, and they were worse this time. They were on his body, around his anus, and on his sheath. Poor guy, these things were awful, and they appeared to be an autoimmune issue. At one point, we questioned his prognosis and quality of life, but before jumping to conclusions, we biopsied the tissue. We ended up with the vasculitis diagnosis. The best thing was, we changed up his meds, and the sores began to heal. The area where the mass was removed was beginning to heal. In the meantime, the next test came when it was time to change his first bandage. With a bit of sedation, it went fairly smooth, but cleaning the lesion was a little challenging. But, wow, it looked amazing! Such a tremendous improvement. It was like a victory in and of itself, even though not healed.
Healing progressed nicely. After several bandage changes, Blue was getting resentful of the needle for sedation, so we tried without. It went well with cleaning a few times, until he didn’t like it when placing the medicated bandage over the lesion. It seems he was healing, and he could feel the area again. He stomped the bandage off, over and over. The stomp was a little intimidating, but really, he was only trying to get the “big white bug” off his leg. He didn’t kick out or kick at. His stomp was purposeful in knocking the bandage off his leg. Unfortunately, we couldn’t keep the bandage on, so we had to go back to sedation for a bit. Eventually, we could remove the bandage, clean the lesion, and replace the bandage without issue, without sedation, thankfully. Healing continued.
By November 2017, the lesion was almost healed, but there was a small area where the tissue was changing, so it was trimmed by vet. By January 2018, the lesion had nearly healed again. Blue made tremendous progress. However, as the months went on, the small area persisted and started to grow again. We lasered the area and biopsied for a third time, and this time the biopsy revealed a sarcoid. They are persistent little buggers!!!
We tried some different medication over the months, but nothing resulted in complete healing, and by Fall, we decided to laser again; however, by November 2018, the sarcoid was growing, it was removed, and another course of treatment began with new medications. Blue stood quietly for bandage changes every two to three days.
As of mid-February 2019, Blue’s lesion appears to have healed, we continued applying an anti-viral cream daily for several weeks, maybe months. So far, so good. The lesion is scarred (about a silver dollar-sized area with no hair growth), and his fetlock remains enlarged from lymphatic scarring. He’s sound, just a bit awkward looking above his hoof.
Blue’s healthy, happy, and in much better shape than when he arrived. He continues to have challenges with trust, mostly when introducing new things, but he continues to show progress, one baby step at a time. He loves his carrots, and he will respectfully do almost anything for a bite of carrot. He also enjoys being “Uncle Blue” to the youngsters, a job he does well!
Like we have said before, Blue’s story is not an uncommon story in terms of the hurdles we cross with any intake with special needs. We have unexpected bumps in the road that required more than anticipated. For Blue, it was the bouts of vasculitis and later, the discovery of the sarcoid. For some, it’s colic; for others, abscesses, lacerations from tree branches or scuffles with others. We can’t plan for these things, but need the resources to handle them when confronted. We are grateful to have had the support of our AAE community to assure we can manage most any unexpected issue along the way.
Blue is available for adoption only to the perfect, forever home. He needs a person that is mustang-experienced, extremely patient, and has no expectations other than companionship and providing a safe, caring home. Keep in mind, he lived on the open range for years, and he does not enjoy confinement. At AAE, he lives in a herd environment on about 10 acres. He comes in every morning and every evening at feeding time. He is somewhat social, but still skeptical of humans. Given the choice, he’d prefer a free-roaming life with occasional visit to two-leggers. Blue gives his feet for cleaning, and he is ok with the farrier when trimmed in a small paddock. Blue has learned very basic groundwork. He is always looking for Plan B, an escape. He can be touched and handled all over, but continues to have a difficult time relaxing and enjoying. He’s pretty good with his hooves, but the front right is still an effort. His leg is checked regularly for any recurrence of his sarcoid. Fortunately, we are still sarcoid free, and his scar is about the size of a quarter. Blue needs much more confidence before considering saddle training, and he will likely be a very long term project. Continuity and consistency will be key in building his confidence and advancing his skills. Blue is current with hoof and dental care, vaccines, and deworming. He has a microchip.
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Give the gift that keeps on giving by sponsoring a horse on behalf of a horse-loving friend or family member!
As a sponsor, your annual or monthly contribution helps support the costs of care for a specific horse.
You can sponsor at any level or any amount you choose. You will receive an electronic “gift letter” with a photo of an AAE horse, acknowledging your gift on behalf of your recipient.
The Patriotic US Flag/Mustang image on front and Mustang is My Favorite Breed (or Rescue is My Favorite Breed) in white on back. Available in Black, Ash Gray, Navy, and Brown.
Orders may be picked up at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs or
Stop by the AAE Used Tack Store to find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life! Don’t know what they need? We have gift cards, too!
Here are more ways you can help!
Doing any winter cleaning? Donate your gently used tack to AAE’s Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs. We very much appreciate tack donations delivered to the store in sale ready condition (e.g. clean, conditioned, oiled). Please email tack@allaboutequine.org for information about donating or to schedule a delivery.
Proceeds from used tack sales help pay for feed, veterinary expenses, and other operational needs.
As we count down to 2021, join us every day this month as we share stories from the barn that show how your support has helped horses in 2020.
With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity and support.
CHESNEY, CLARE, and CURLY
Meet the three C’s, Chesney, Clare, and Curly, recent intakes that came to AAE the end of November 2020, like others before them, from a distressed mustang sanctuary situation due to a family health crisis and financial distress. After 20 years of serving mustangs, the sanctuary was unable to adequately meet the needs of their horses.Upon arrival, these three were quarantined together, and they have had their hooves trimmed, dental floats, vaccines, deworming, and they got microchips. Two still have hind hooves to trim because they were naughty and need a bit more work!
CHESNEY
Chesney is a 14-ish mustang mare that was on the thin side needing hoof and dental care. She was very timid, but with lots of try. At pickup, she haltered with a slow, patient approach, and she loaded relatively easy.
Chesney lacks confidence, but she tries hard to understand. She allows her front hooves to be handled without sedation, but she needed sedation for her trim (fronts only). She wasn’t so confident with her hinds, so we’ll be working on that.
CLARE
Clare is a 15-ish Mustang mare. She is sweet (most of the time) and was relatively easy to halter. She loaded without issue, until trying to shift her inside trailer. She’s naughty around her hind end and will kick.
Clare was thin and in need of hoof and dental care. She also has a chronic fungal issue on her hinds. She is sweet and social, but can be evasive when haltering. She comes around with patience and persistence.
CURLY
Curly is about a 14-year old Curly Mustang. She is halterable, friendly, and easy going. She was easy to approach and loaded without issue.
Curly needed hoof and dental care. She was trimmed without issue (and no sedation necessary). She’s cute, personable, and seems uncomplicated.
We’re spending some time getting to know these three girls, but they should be available for adoption soon. Thus far, none have any obvious limitations, but we’ve only just begun to explore. We’re focusing on basic handling with Chesney and Clare, with priority on their hind hooves. Curly seems to have a great start, and we’ll likely introduce a saddle soon.
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Give the gift that keeps on giving by sponsoring a horse on behalf of a horse-loving friend or family member!
As a sponsor, your annual or monthly contribution helps support the costs of care for a specific horse.
You can sponsor at any level or any amount you choose. You will receive an electronic “gift letter” with a photo of an AAE horse, acknowledging your gift on behalf of your recipient.
The Patriotic US Flag/Mustang image on front and Mustang is My Favorite Breed (or Rescue is My Favorite Breed) in white on back. Available in Black, Ash Gray, Navy, and Brown.
Orders may be picked up at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs or
Stop by the AAE Used Tack Store to find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life! Don’t know what they need? We have gift cards, too!
Here are more ways you can help!
Doing any winter cleaning? Donate your gently used tack to AAE’s Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs. We very much appreciate tack donations delivered to the store in sale ready condition (e.g. clean, conditioned, oiled). Please email tack@allaboutequine.org for information about donating or to schedule a delivery.
Proceeds from used tack sales help pay for feed, veterinary expenses, and other operational needs.
As we count down to 2021, join us every day this month as we share stories from the barn that show how your support has helped horses in 2020.
With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity and support.
A Favorite Christmas Story
RASCAL & MADDIE
Maddie and Rascal have been buds for a while. They are two very special girls that both had very rough entries into this world, but they are doing very well. This year, the best gift ever, they went to their new home together! Rascal’s story is a long one, poor lil’ thing went through so much, but her will to live was ferocious.
Rascal faced a lot of challenges from her first day on Earth! Many of you may have heard her story, but reminiscing about Rascal never gets old. AAE got a call for help with on April 5, 2017. Rascal was just hours old; she became an orphan when her mom scaled a six foot paddock and left her behind. She was located over five hours away, so we mobilized and met in Reno to pick her up. Her lil’ body was very weak, and she couldn’t get up on her own.
First stop from Reno was Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center. Surprisingly, her initial outlook wasn’t horrible. She was diagnosed with selenium deficiency…
She was hospitalized. The initial outlook was fairly good, but after getting blood results, it was bad. Then, we got call at midnight and her blood values were moving in the wrong direction. We were preparing for not so good news in the morning. HOWEVER, Rascal had different plans. By morning, she was fighting back, she was drinking milk replacer on her own. As it turns out, she was fighting a severe selenium deficiency that caused white muscle disease, which also put her kidneys in distress. Her blood levels started trending in the right direction. There was no doubt she wanted to live! She was a FIGHTER, and she battled to live. Docs thought she was likely she’s dealing with the results of being rejected by mom, stresses of transport, and secondary effects resulting from mom’s malnourishment and selenium deficiency. but they were hopeful that with 5 +/- days of hospitalization and supportive care, she had a good shot at a relatively normal life. A BIG THANK YOU to LBEMC for their quick actions and the outstanding care provided for this little filly.
The days passed, and her progress was steady but slow. After 13 days in the hospital, she still couldn’t stand up on her own. We brought her home to continue treatment. That basically meant 24/7 care, but fear not, AAE volunteers rose to the occasion. This little gal had someone with her at all times. Rascal was playful and sassy, can’t you tell? We had so much fun with her, and she was a super sport!
Even this special volunteer kept a watchful eye. Like Holli, volunteers slept beside her at night, not the least bit phased by the enormous rats that ran across the rails of the barn and the roof. Rascal had to be lifted to her feet every two hours. Once standing, she was fine. She would romp around the inside of the barn at night, and she run around the outside of the barn by day.
After 13 days at LBEMC and another 13 days at AAE, Rascal was able to STAND up on her own.
As if selenium deficiency, white muscle disease, and distressed kidneys weren’t enough, Rascal had several more hurdles along the way including an umbilicus infection, two bouts with c. diff bacteria (diarrhea doesn’t begin to describe it), large umbilical hernia (some would say she was a he) followed by surgical repair, an enormous hoof abscess, then chronic diarrhea for nearly a year. Once the diarrhea resolved, so did all of her health issues. Today, she is healthy and thriving (and she passes normal poop). For Rascal, that’s reason to celebrate.
Beautiful girl about a year old.
Growing up
Love this girl.
She had a lot of interest and a few adoptions fell through for one reason or another
Then this happened! We couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity for Rascal and Maddie.
You met Maddie with her mom, Tae, earlier this month.
Maddie was only a few days old when she arrived at AAE. This beautiful little gal was being rejected by her mom. Mom was young, and this was probably her first foal, but sheesh, she needs to eat (drink). It was truly hard to watch.
Mom would bite her every time she tried to nurse, and she had little sores all over her tiny body. Sadly, as we were observing, mom was escalating, and it seemed to be getting more serious.
Smart little Maddie knew how to think outside of the box; she was creative. She learned she could come in the back side to find a teat. Unfortunately, she didn’t nurse like that all the time. After a while, mom picked her up with her teeth, and she tossed her. Heartbreaking to see! At that point, it didn’t look like these two would work out, so we separated them. An hour, maybe two passed.
Without baby beside her, Mom began to worry. We tried re-uniting them once more, and thankfully, everything changed. From that point on, these two were a great pair.
Soon it was time to stand on her own, but really, Maddie has always been her own girl. She’s smart, witty, sassy, and strong (minded). This is going to be one dynamo partner, but you’ll need to assure her you’re the better leader.
Before long, it was time for school, but this lil gal is still young, so she learned the basics, then she waited. And, while she waited, you know what happened next! So grateful! Happily ever after!
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Give the gift that keeps on giving by sponsoring a horse on behalf of a horse-loving friend or family member!
As a sponsor, your annual or monthly contribution helps support the costs of care for a specific horse.
You can sponsor at any level or any amount you choose. You will receive an electronic “gift letter” with a photo of an AAE horse, acknowledging your gift on behalf of your recipient.
The Patriotic US Flag/Mustang image on front and Mustang is My Favorite Breed (or Rescue is My Favorite Breed) in white on back. Available in Black, Ash Gray, Navy, and Brown.
Orders may be picked up at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs or
Stop by the AAE Used Tack Store to find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life! Don’t know what they need? We have gift cards, too!
Here are more ways you can help!
Doing any winter cleaning? Donate your gently used tack to AAE’s Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs. We very much appreciate tack donations delivered to the store in sale ready condition (e.g. clean, conditioned, oiled). Please email tack@allaboutequine.org for information about donating or to schedule a delivery.
Proceeds from used tack sales help pay for feed, veterinary expenses, and other operational needs.
As we count down to 2021, join us every day this month as we share stories from the barn that show how your support has helped horses in 2020.
With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity and support.
RED
Red originally came to AAE back in July 2015. He had been at the Monty Roberts International Learning Center (MRILC) for several months. His owner passed while he was at MRILC for gentling. He had been rescued, but we none of the information about him or his rescue situation was available.
Though Red spent quite a bit of time at MRILC, he had a difficult time accepting human interaction. While at MRILC, he experienced a lot. He was socialized, learned basic groundwork and long-lining, and he was introduced to a saddle (no rider). All that considered, when he arrived at AAE, it was like starting over. It took tremendous time overcoming fear and accepting humans. All of his vet care was updated when he was ready.
Red was adopted by a youth adopter in Fall of 2016. and his progress continued, but due to the life circumstances and the realities of work and finances that come with adulthood, his young adopter was unable to continue to meet Red’s needs. Red continued building trust and learning about saddle work, even carrying a rider a few times.
Red returned to AAE the beginning of January 2018. His vet care was updated again, including dental and hoof care, vaccines, and deworming. Though disappointing, we were glad Red was back at AAE. He was always a volunteer favorite, and he was enjoyed by all of the horses,too.
Such a handsome guy! Not long after returning to AAE, Red suffered a freak pasture injury. Veterinary exam indicated he ruptured his peroneus tertius muscle. This usually happens when the hock is hyperextended, likely in a quick turn or change of direction. Thankfully, it was a soft tissue injury, and not the ghastly fracture it appeared to be. Red was on stall rest for more than a year, but he healed well.
Red is a super kind and willing guy, but still has considerable difficulty accepting human interaction and trusting that no harm will come to him. First contact with him is like 50 first dates…or 593,625 first dates by now. He snorts when approached. He snorts whenever he encounters something new….even if he’s seen it a million times. Once he’s been touched by human (or monster), he is relatively easy to halter, and he seems to enjoy grooming and hanging with humans. With his injury, after a few months, he was haltered and hand-walked almost daily, but you would never know. He still acts like it’s something new.
Red is sweet, smart, and honest, however he is reactive and perpetually snorty. He is always respectful of his handler’s space. Red was looking for a home where he would be loved for him and not what he could do, a home where Red would be a companion first, potential riding horse or not. Thankfully, Red finally found his person a short while ago!!
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Give the gift that keeps on giving by sponsoring a horse on behalf of a horse-loving friend or family member!
As a sponsor, your annual or monthly contribution helps support the costs of care for a specific horse.
You can sponsor at any level or any amount you choose. You will receive an electronic “gift letter” with a photo of an AAE horse, acknowledging your gift on behalf of your recipient.
The Patriotic US Flag/Mustang image on front and Mustang is My Favorite Breed (or Rescue is My Favorite Breed) in white on back. Available in Black, Ash Gray, Navy, and Brown.
Orders may be picked up at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs or
Stop by the AAE Used Tack Store to find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life! Don’t know what they need? We have gift cards, too!
Here are more ways you can help!
Doing any winter cleaning? Donate your gently used tack to AAE’s Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs. We very much appreciate tack donations delivered to the store in sale ready condition (e.g. clean, conditioned, oiled). Please email tack@allaboutequine.org for information about donating or to schedule a delivery.
Proceeds from used tack sales help pay for feed, veterinary expenses, and other operational needs.
As we count down to 2021, join us every day this month as we share stories from the barn that show how your support has helped horses in 2020.
With the uncertainties and challenges of this year, we truly appreciate your generosity and support.
Hello from Hearty Hardy!
HARDY
Hardy came to AAE in July 2019. He retired from the Folsom Police Department in 2017. Hardy was originally going to retire at AAE, but plans for him changed. We were thrilled to finally welcome him about two years later.
We recently searched the Standdardbred registry and learned he was born March 9, 1997 in Marlborough, CT. His name was HeartofHearts. Very suiting for such a loving guy! We were told he was a pacer on the harness track until he was 11 or 12, before he was retired to another rescue where he was loved by volunteers. He was subsequently adopted to the Folsom PD where he served as a police mount until 2017.
We recently searched the Standdardbred registry and learned he was born March 9, 1997 in Marlborough, CT. His name was HeartofHearts. Very suiting for such a loving guy! We were told he was a pacer on the harness track until he was 11 or 12, before he was retired to another rescue where he was loved by volunteers. He was subsequently adopted to the Folsom PD where he served as a police mount until 2017.
He was on the thin side and arthritic on arrival, so our first priority for this big love was getting him back on track with his joint injections to make him more comfortable. At retirement, he was getting bilateral hock and joint injections, but those had not been continued for an unknown period. He was also started back on daily Equioxx tabs to help, too. Then we updated his vaccines and hoof and dental care updated, he was dewormed, and he had a microchip “installed”.
Hardy is a beloved volunteer favorite, and the feeling is mutual. When he’s not getting the love of our volunteers, these days, we find this big hearted guy wandering the barn and keeping a watch over our operations and all of the horses.
He’s also known as our “taster”. As if we were a winery, he takes a little nip of everything he sees (except his own food)! And then, he acts like “What??? Me?? I didn’t do it”!
Hardy is truly one of the heart horses of AAE. He is a deeply soulful old guy that gives something to everyone without even knowing it.
He keeps a watchful eye over all of his equine friends, small and large, and we are grateful to be able to keep a watchful eye over him.
Hardy wishes everyone a happy and hearty holiday season. Happy holidays to you, Hardy, from all your AAE family!
Thank you for your support helping horses each and every day!
Your donations, volunteering, adopting, and social media shares & likes allow us to make this work possible!
Give the gift that keeps on giving by sponsoring a horse on behalf of a horse-loving friend or family member!
As a sponsor, your annual or monthly contribution helps support the costs of care for a specific horse.
You can sponsor at any level or any amount you choose. You will receive an electronic “gift letter” with a photo of an AAE horse, acknowledging your gift on behalf of your recipient.
The Patriotic US Flag/Mustang image on front and Mustang is My Favorite Breed (or Rescue is My Favorite Breed) in white on back. Available in Black, Ash Gray, Navy, and Brown.
Orders may be picked up at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs or
Stop by the AAE Used Tack Store to find the perfect gift for the horse lover in your life! Don’t know what they need? We have gift cards, too!
Here are more ways you can help!
Doing any winter cleaning? Donate your gently used tack to AAE’s Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs. We very much appreciate tack donations delivered to the store in sale ready condition (e.g. clean, conditioned, oiled). Please email tack@allaboutequine.org for information about donating or to schedule a delivery.
Proceeds from used tack sales help pay for feed, veterinary expenses, and other operational needs.