You have until 5p to bid to make your holiday season sparkle while helping horses in need!
With enormous thanks to our very generous donor, we received an incredible jewelry donation to help us with our fundraising efforts. These five pieces are beautiful and blingy, and you can now bid on them in an online auction to benefit horses in need. They are sure to make for some extra special holiday gifts!
14K Yellow Gold Diamond Earrings
The earrings are custom-made and each contains 11 channel set round brilliant cut diamonds. Timeless and brilliant, these will add sparkle to any outfit! Remember, horses and diamonds are a girl’s best friend!
14K Yellow Gold Custom-Made Diamond Pendant
The pendant contains four matching channel set round brilliant cut diamonds. Classic and brilliant, the horses will feel your love whenever you wear it.
14K Yellow Gold and Amethyst Ring
This gorgeous ring features a unique oblong 3D triangle cut amethyst stone in a 14K yellow gold mounting. As you slip this glorious gem on your finger, you may hear soft nickers of thanks from our beloved horses.
14K Yellow Gold Lady’s Emerald and Sapphire Ring
This brightly polished ring contains a natural emerald cut emerald center stone accented by two (one per side) fancy yellow sapphires. Everyone will be green with envy of the lucky individual who owns this emerald.
14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Bracelet
Imagine this stunning symbol of love encircling your wrist! There is approximately 29.6 grams of gold and 5.5 carats of diamonds in this bracelet.
Bidding is open now and will close on December 15 at 5pm PST!
It’s that time of year we share with you the work we’ve all been doing throughout the year. We missed last year while we were in the middle of our Big Move, so we have some catching up to do. The stories you’ll read this month are your donations, volunteering, likes, shares, and other support at work. We hope you enjoy!
JENNINGS
Jennings is a 2005 mustang that came to AAE in July 2020 from a distressed mustang sanctuary situation due to a family health crisis. After 20 years of serving mustangs, the sanctuary was unable to adequately meet the needs of the horses. Jennings had a rapidly growing mass on his sheath. It was a suspect squamous cell carcinoma. Jennings has little skin pigment, and the pink skin in and around his eyes was also very agitated, likely from the sun. His weight was on the thin side, as well. When picked up, he was a friendly guy, handled easily, and loaded willingly onto the trailer.
Once at AAE, Jennings was seen by Dr. Stolba. Jennings mass was removed shortly after, and he recovered well. Biopsy results indicated the mass was a metastatic melanoma. Fortunately, the biopsy showed clean margins with no vascular invasion. We were on a guarded prognosis for 90-days, and at re-exam, no additional regrowth was observed, and no additional regrowths have been identified since. Due to Jenning’s lack of pigment, he is prone to recurrence or growths in other areas, and he needs ongoing monitoring. We’re about two and one-half years out, and no reoccurrence.
Jennings is a very sweet and very social guy, really a character with a big personality. He loves to be with humans, and is always looking to interact. In general, he’s easy-going, quiet, soft, and respectful. He’s good with the farrier, enjoys grooming and attention; however, he lacks confidence and needs slow introductions to new things to reassure him.
Jennings is low-level in the herd, and is easily pushed off food; however, he’s very active and playful with several of the other geldings and one old mare. At times, he can be protective of his food and/or a his buddy. He finds confidence in another horse, typically a mare, and bonds tightly. Separation anxiety can be an issue.
We were told Jennings was ridden in the past, but it had been several years. He was evaluated under saddle, and spent a short time in training. His lack of confidence was more pronounced. He was anxious and unsettled, so the focus became building his confidence. Jennings has improved, but needs more consistency with an experienced rider to bring him along slowly and with a quiet, calm approach. He is not suitable for a beginner/novice rider. A restart would be advised. Start fresh, reinforce a strong foundation, work slow and build cofidence, and you’ll create an incredible bond with this sweet guy.
Jennings is current with dental and hoof care, vaccines, and deworming, and he has a microchip. Due to his areas of unpigmented skin, and history with the growth on his sheath, he is more prone to potential skin growths. A fly mask with UV protection covering his eyes and nose is helpful, too, but he dislikes fly masks and escapes them routinely. We use sunscreen for added protection. Close monitoring will help nip things in the bud should anything appear.
If you’d like to make a year end donation in honor of Jennings to support AAE’s ongoing operations into 2023, you can click the donate button to give a gift that counts.
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!
In addition to our typical year end fundraising, you have another way to support AAE and horses-in-need, it’s a jewelry auction. Is there a better time than the holidays to give a special gift?
With enormous thanks to our very generous donor, we received an exquisite five piece jewelry donation to boost our fundraising efforts this year. These are beautiful and blingy pieces, and they are sure to make for some extra special holiday gifts.
We are hosting an online auction to benefit the horses. Bidding is open now and continues until December 15, 2022 at 5:00pm!
#GivingTuesday is just about halfway over and we are halfway to our $7500 goal!
Finn wants to thank everyone who has helped make this day a success so far! Thanks for your donations, social media shares & likes, and overall support!
From the bottom of our hearts, we are grateful for you!
The horses are counting on you today!
If you choose to donate to AAE for #GivingTuesday, you’ll give more horses a second chance for the life they deserve.
Ways to Give
(1) Donate by clicking here or any of the red buttons below.
(2) Text GT4AAE to 53-555.
(3) Venmo your donation to @allaboutequine
(4) Mail a check to:
All About Equine Animal Rescue
2201 Francisco Drive #140-174
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
(5) Drop off your donation at:
AAE Used Tack Store
4261 Sunset Lane, Suite B
Shingle Springs, CA 95682
(6) Give your time and become an AAE volunteer. We are always in need of volunteers and have opportunities at the barn, the AAE Used Tack Store, remote roles (such as our grants or events teams), and more!
(7) Shop at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs where you can purchase tack, clothing, boots, and other items to benefit AAE’s rescue operations. The store also accepts donations of gently used or new tack.
Whether you give $1000, $100, or $5, any amount makes a HUGE difference for the horses! No donation is too small. In fact, if every one of our followers made a $1 donation, we could surpass our GivingTuesday goal by thousands.
Donate now or anytime through tonight at 11:59pm PT.
Granger came to AAE in July 2022 after an animal control intervention to a neglect situation. He was malnourished, having to fight for food in a herd of eight other much younger horses.
Once at AAE, he was started on a refeeding program with soaked alfalfa pellets, and he received long overdue dental and vet care, including vaccines and a microchip. He also saw the farrier for a much needed hoof trim. Over the past several months, Granger’s weight and overall health has improved.
Granger is looking for his forever home. This 30 year old sweetheart was used on a ranch for trail rides in his previous life, but is now best suited as non-riding companion horse.
He is easy going, and well mannered (as long as food isn’t involved). He does well in a herd environment (as long as he is fed separately to assure he gets what he needs). His ground manners are generally good, he’s good with the farrier, and he loads and trailers well.
If you are interested in learning more about Granger to see if he’s a good fit, please visit our website.
We are incredibly grateful to have supporters like you so we can continue improving the lives of horses like Granger, one life at a time.
Our goal is to raise $7,500 today and at least $25,000 this holiday season. We need your help to reach that goal. Any gifts would be greatly appreciated as we move into and through 2023 to assure that together we can continue to do what we do.
Ways to Give
Here are a few ways you can support AAE for #GivingTuesday and all year long.
(1) Donate by clicking here or any of the red buttons below.
(2) Text GT4AAE to 53-555.
(3) Venmo your donation to @allaboutequine
(4) Mail a check to:
All About Equine Animal Rescue
2201 Francisco Drive #140-174
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
(5) Drop off your donation at:
AAE Used Tack Store
4261 Sunset Lane, Suite B
Shingle Springs, CA 95682
(6) Give your time and become an AAE volunteer. We are always in need of volunteers and have opportunities at the barn, the AAE Used Tack Store, remote roles (such as our grants or events teams), and more!
(7) Shop at the AAE Used Tack Store in Shingle Springs where you can purchase tack, clothing, boots, and other items to benefit AAE’s rescue operations. The store also accepts donations of gently used or new tack.
Whether you give $1000, $100, or $5, any amount makes a HUGE difference for the horses! No donation is too small. In fact, if every one of our followers made a $1 donation, we could surpass our GivingTuesday goal by thousands.
Donate now or anytime through tonight at 11:59pm PT.
First, we would like to apologize. It’s been so busy that we’re behind with our news! We welcomed two donkeys to AAE last month. These ladies came from a family who offered to care for them temporarily to help a friend who was going through a divorce. The friend got the donks for free on Craigslist. The friend moved out of state, and the donks were left behind. The family didn’t have any equine experience and could not afford to provide for them. Their owner said to find them a new home.
Sadly, Loretta, the beautiful brown gal with the long amber mane, is aged, malnourished, and her hooves are in very bad shape. Needless to say, she’s quite arthritic, too. The gray donk, Lainey, is obese, and she has two large hernias from a spay-job gone bad. They are both ever so sweet, and they hold no grudges to humans.
It sounds like they’d never had any veterinary care or hoof care, either. More to come soon. Prayers for Loretta that we can improve her comfort level.
Gabby Update!
Hurdles continue for our sweet Gabby! Her hoof abscesses have been relentless. Just when we thought we were over the hump, imagine three hoof abscesses at once. She’s a fighter, and we know she’s a winner!
When we picked up Gabby earlier this year, her hooves had been trimmed the day before. They looked like pancakes. She was very flat footed, and her heels were very far forward. Lest forget starvation, chronic sinus infection, painful eye infections, bloodwork, radiographs, dental, surgery, drain tube, Cushing’s disease, medications. She’s ready for a break, and it looks like we’re slowly getting to a good place, again. Send this girl some love.
Elliott Update!
This lil’ character had to go in for urgent surgery a few weeks ago, as his sheath reconfiguration was healing so well, it wanted to close again. Fortunately, this time the surgeon was able to modify the sheath again and go on a treasure hunt. Good news, he found two healthy jewels, and they were not hidden too deep so he got ’em! Now we definitively have a young gelding. Better news, Elliott is healing well, he’s urinating well, and soon he’ll soon be leading a nearly normal life thanks to all of your support. He sends an enormous thank you to all of you!
Our gratitude for our donors, volunteers, and supporters is immense. Your contributions make a difference in the lives of horses each and every day!
Thank you for making possible the work we each day.
Gabby Update!
Though Gabby looks like a completely different horse than the emaciated, sickly mare that came in earlier this year, this beautiful red head has had challenge after challenge. If you aren’t familiar, Gabby came to AAE through law enforcement. She arrived with chronic eye and sinus infections. She had a space (diastema) between two teeth and an opening in her gums that extended into her sinus. When she chewed, food packed into the space and ultimately pushed into the sinus. She went in for surgery to extract a tooth to prevent ongoing food packing and to allow the fistula to close. Once sedated and preparing to extract the first tooth, the fistula was much larger than anticipated, and the tooth on the opposite side of the fistula needed to be removed, as well. As a result, she had an extended hospitalization so her sinus could be flushed regularly to eliminate food collecting again in her sinus while the fistula healed/closed.
Since surgery, Gabby has continued to battle the chronic eye infection which was likely a result of the chronic sinus infection. Ultimately, the long term infection caused a dry eye and recurrent ulcers despite ongoing treatment and various medications. Thankfully, the fistula closed, and the sinus infection has resolved, but the eye irritation/infection continues, though it is slowly improving.
Gabby initially tested negative for Cushing’s disease at intake. With the chronic infection, she was tested again. This time, she was positive and started daily medication. She has also experienced multiple hoof abscesses, the worst coming during the Mosquito fire evacuation. Radiographs of her front hooves identified not one, but two old fractures. One at the tip of her left coffin bone, the other at a wing of her right front coffin bone. Corrective shoes were placed to support her. Needless to say, this sweet girl is having a heck of a time overcoming all of her issues.
Please send some healing energies her way.
Of course, Gabby’s extended hospital stay and ongoing issues have been a big hit to our vet budget. If you are able to help Gabby’s costs, we’d greatly appreciate it.
Elliot is doing well, healing and growing! In case you don’t know, Elliott is a ~19 month old captive bred mustang. He came to AAE because he couldn’t urinate normally and needed surgery to reconfigure his sheath. His prior family didn’t know he had congenital issues causing his sheath and penis to develop abnormally. He also has no palpable testicles.
Elliott had a condition called preputial stenosis, which caused his penis to be trapped inside his sheath. When he urinated, urine was also trapped in his sheath so he would dribble urine causing scalding of his sheath, belly, and legs. Sadly, his breeder could have had this easily repaired when he was a foal. Instead, he passed him on to an unsuspecting family that wanted to help him. Another vet suggested he was possibly a hermaphrodite and there was no penis.
Fast forward, AAE was contacted for help, and Elliott had surgery to reconfigure his sheath and free Willy. Turns out, Elliott’s penis is about half the size of a normal horse, and it is partially attached inside his sheath. However, surgery went well, and Elliott is healing now. Because AAE evacuated during the Mosquito Fire (just to be safe), Elliott had an extended stay at the hospital to minimize stress (his and our) and to assure he got needed care and treatment. Ell is back in Pilot Hill and starting to act like a young, playful colt (good and bad, lol). Once his sheath heals, we need to go searching for the jewels, bloodwork indicates there is still some hiding going on…at least one undescended testicle. A follow up surgery will be scheduled once he’s healed and ready to go.
Due to Elliott’s extended hospital stay, we’re just a little bit short on his fundraising for his initial surgery, and he has a follow up surgery in the near future. We’ll update costs as soon as we schedule.
Sadly, our Danny-boy left us last month. We’ve all got empty spots in our hearts from missing this sweet ol’ man. Danny came to AAE in 2017 when his family was experiencing a health crisis. He was 27 and had been with his human mom his entire life. Unfortunately, she was unable to continue providing care for him and had to make a painful decision in his best interest. Fortunately for AAE, we got to spend the next five years enjoying this guy’s big heart. Danny was a favorite to many volunteers and visitors. He wooed them all with his shoulder hug. Danny would greet everyone at every opportunity by putting his head upon their shoulder. It was the warmest, fuzziest feeling. He didn’t have a mean bone in his body, and he could stand at anyone’s shoulder 24-hours. Danny’s hugs were endless, and as was everyone’s love for him.
Danny had more than his share of ups and downs the last couple years. He battled with an unknown intestinal issue. None of the many diagnostics and vet visits we utilized were able to pinpoint the issue, but it was akin to IBS or maybe some type of cancer. He overcame a few bouts of laminitis, and he had several skin infections. Regardless, Danny has been a valiant fighter, and he always rebounded with great spirit. Never did we question his will to live, and thankfully, his time here in Pilot Hill has been very good. Most recently, Danny’s appetite was waning, and he lost considerable weight the past few months. That said, he was happy, full of energy, and full of life. He loved his turnouts in the corner pasture with the “special” herd. He frolicked, he ran, he raced. Though his 32 years were catching up to him, nothing suggested he was ready to go. Maybe he knew. My last check in with him was only hours before he passed. He was his normal full of pep Danny. He smiled, he gave me a little “what for”, and we said good night. I never imagined that would be the last time. He left us in the night; he chose the time and way he would go. All indications suggest he passed quick and easy. For all of that, I am beyond grateful. At 32 and his body weight waning, we all knew the time was coming, but his life was good through the very end. Thank you, Danny, you made this world very special for all you touched and you will be missed greatly. Run free ol’ boy, run free.
Like many of our resident horses, Danny was cremated so we could bring him home to rest with AAE and all of our volunteers. If you’d like to help with Danny’s cremation costs or make a donation in memory of his hugs, we always appreciate the love.
We asked for a caption for this photo, and Red Hot Filly Peppers was the best caption ever! These three lucky girls, Chesney, Clare, and Teea, were adopted as a trio last month. This might well be one of the best adoptions ever! These three captive born mustangs came to AAE from a distressed mustang sanctuary back in summer/fall 2020. They had been living in small paddocks for years, and hadn’t had much handling in years. Their hooves were overgrown, and they had various issues. Shortly after intake, the work began. Handling, haltering, and hoof care, then deworming, dentals, vaccines, and microchips. In time, all were done, and they were learning to trust humans again. It didn’t take long before all three were turned out together. After moving to Pilot Hill, it became very clear the bond among these three was very tight, and we realized we needed to find them a home together. That was no easy task. It’s hard enough to find a home for two bonded horses, let alone three middle-aged mustangs that haven’t been saddle trained! The best we can do is plant the seed, and hope it grows. It did!!! These girls now share five acres on a larger vineyard property. They are a dream come true for their new mom. They will be trained to their potential, and they will help with vegetation management on the vineyard. These three amigas got so lucky!!
The evacuation warning was lifted for our area on Sunday, and we moved all of the horses back to Pilot Hill on Tuesday, what a marathon! Since Wednesday, we’ve been reorganizing feed, supplies and equipment in Pilot Hill to get us back in order. We have a bit more equipment to dismantle and supplies to load in El Dorado Hills and return to Pilot Hill. Thankfully, we’re closing the gap to done.
Thank you to everyone for your support and assistance over the past few weeks, and a big shout-out to all of the volunteers that came to the rescue to transport horses, gather and transport feed, equipment and supplies, those who picked up extra feed, everyone that cared for horses in both locations, and those that helped with all the other details! It was definitely a team effort that made this happen.
Our hearts go out to those in our community that lost home and structures, and those that were impacted in other ways. We also have immense gratitude for our firefighters, law enforcement, and their teams that have been working so hard battling this fire and keeping everyone safe! Recent information from Watch Duty indicates the Mosquito Fire is 60% contained, and all evacuation orders and warnings have been lifted, thank goodness. Praying for complete containment and extinguishing the rest of the fire goes quickly and smoothly!
ANOTHER ELL UPDATE!
Due to the fire evacuation warning, Ell remained at Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center for about a week or so after his surgery.
We are happy to announce that Ell is back at AAE, and we are so happy this sweet guy is back home. He has a large surgical site, but he is healing well.
Best of all, when he urinates, urine flows freely and is no longer “trapped” in his sheath. He has at least a few weeks of healing ahead, and once the healing is done, we’ll revisit the search for a testicle or two. Until then, we’re all hoping for quick healing and a speedy recovery. Oh, and we’ve changed his name just a tad, he’s now Elliott! Thank you to everyone that assisted with these efforts for Ell. He is beyond grateful for your donations and support, and so are we!!
Due to his extended stay at LBEMC during the Mosquito Fire, Ell has additional care costs that we were not anticipating. If you’d like to help with those costs, please consider making a donation on his behalf if you can.
We wanted to give everyone an update on our situation with the Mosquito Fire. We would much rather be in a position to support our community right now, but instead, AAE’s Pilot Hill property is in the outer (southwesterly) edge of the evacuation warning area. When Cool went into Evacuation Warning late Thursday, that was our cue to go. Thanks to tremendous support from our volunteers and the community, we were able to quickly mobilize equipment, feed, and supplies to set-up an evacuation location at our old home in El Dorado Hills. We wrapped up about 2a Friday after setting up and transporting 18 horses. On Friday, we moved another 14 horses, along with some additional equipment and supplies. Our three minis are with our volunteer mini mom. We have 18 mustangs, three cows, two pigs, two cats, and our Speedy remaining in Pilot Hill. All are in confined areas and ready to go if there’s any shift in the fire in our direction.
We are a little bit below the blue dot in the photo above, about 13 miles from the edge of the fire and feel relatively safe, we made the decision to start moving horses on Thursday because of the time it would take to relocate 50+ animals in the event of a mandatory evacuation. We’d rather be safe than sorry!
The current challenge is staffing care shifts at two locations. If any of our experienced volunteers are able to help with feed and care of the horses, either at Pilot Hill or El Dorado Hills, we would appreciate the extra help. Please sign up here (VolunteerLocal).
If you do not have substantial experience volunteering with AAE yet or you have been out of the loop for an extended period, please send an email to volunteer@allaboutequine.org prior to signing up. Unfortunately, reality is that trying to train new volunteers, or re-train volunteers, with limited support can be more difficult than helpful.
Our thoughts and hearts go out to all of those impacted by the fire, as well as all of our firefighters, law enforcement, and their families, as they work hard to keep us safe.
A huge THANK YOU to LEES’ FEED for delivering a much needed feed order to us in El Dorado Hills on short notice yesterday. We were running low, and none of our volunteers were available to transfer from PH, but Lees’ came through for us, big time. Our horses are content and adapting well to all of the changes.
ELL UPDATE!!
Ell is doing well after his surgery. He was supposed to come home to AAE on Friday, but due to the fire situation, he is getting an extended stay at Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center until we are better able to support his post-op care in light of our short staffing.
Due to his prolonged stay, Ell will have additional care costs that we were not anticipating. If you’d like to help with those costs, please consider making a donation on his behalf.
Today is Ell’s surgery day. We have lab results, too, which showed testosterone and anti-mullerian hormone levels were consistent with the presence of functional testicular tissue. Sadly, this means he’ll likely need another surgery to remove a “hidden” testicle. Though he doesn’t have a penis (as far as we know now), considering a future adoption, this will help prevent stud-like behavior as he matures.
Please keep him in your thoughts today, and send some prayers his way for a successful procedure and recovery. We will share photos and updates on his progress on a special Ell webpage! (You can also read more about his story there, too.)
If you are able, please consider making a donation to help with Ell’s surgery and post-surgery care costs. We have haven’t quite hit the halfway point of his fundraising goal yet. Please help if you can.
Don’t forgot to leave a note in the special instructions box that your gift is for Ell!
About Ell: Ell is a young, captive bred/born mustang, only about 18 months old. Ell has an entire life ahead. With everyone’s help, we can make sure Ell has the best chance at a pain free life. Initial surgery and care costs (e.g. hospitalization, diagnostics, meds, vaccines, exams, etc.) are in the $2500 to $3000 range, barring any complications. If another surgery is needed, we’ll keep you updated and revisit funding, if necessary.
Surgery is scheduled September 6, 2022, after Ell finishes a round of antibiotics.
Can you help Ell? This sweet lil’ mustang deserves it!
There are so many horses in need right now, if we can all do a little to help the ones we can, together, we will all be able to make a difference for that many more.
This video has a few new clips than the one in our original email so be sure to watch.
Meet Our Newest Herd Member-in-Need!
Ellie recently arrived at AAE after a local family reached out for help. They “rescued” young Ell when they got “the ugly colt” for free from a backyard breeder. They were told he needed “a little” cosmetic surgery. They felt really bad for the skinny little guy and wanted to get him out of there. Sadly, the breeder didn’t take responsibility for the “little” issue and passed it on to the unsuspecting family. They really wanted to help.
After meeting with two different vets right away and trying to help Ell, they realized this was more than a “little” surgery. There was concern Ell might be a hermaphrodite, and it could be more complicated than cosmetic. After several months of trying to meet Ell’s needs, they realized it was more than they could manage. They wanted the best chance for Ell and reached out to AAE for help.
You see, Ell was born with a congenital abnormality – Ell has a sheath, but it appears he doesn’t have a penis (though, there’s a chance it’s stuck inside him or it’s not where it belongs). For now, we assume Ell is a colt, but missing his part. We’re waiting for updated blood results to check testosterone levels. Could there be hidden testicles, too?
Ell is able to pass urine, but big surprise, without a penis, Ell can’t urinate normally. Urine dribbles from his sheath almost continuously. Sadly, the urine scalds Ell’s skin around his sheath, down his belly, and down his legs. Poor little thing, it’s so painful. Though we do what we can to minimize the scalding, it’s painful being treated, too.
Ell needs surgery to remove some of his sheath to allow urine to flow freely. Depending on blood results, a second surgery may be in store. For now, we’ll focus on fixing the sheath.
All things considered, Ell is the sweetest little thing. That said, Ell has some strong opinions about things and wasn’t very good with hoof handling. Considering sheath cleanings and scalding, it’s understandable. He’s learning to give his hooves, and we’re working on the basics, too, like trimming his hooves, vaccines, and a change in diet to help him put on a little weight. Ell’s already come a long way in a short time at AAE. Let’s give him a chance!
If you’re able to help Ell have a better life, please make a donation toward his surgery and care costs on his behalf.
Ellie recently arrived at AAE after a local family reached out for help. They “rescued” young Ell when they got “the ugly colt” for free from a backyard breeder. They were told he needed “a little” cosmetic surgery. They felt really bad for the skinny little guy and wanted to get him out of there. Sadly, the breeder didn’t take responsibility for the “little” issue and passed it on to the unsuspecting family. They really wanted to help.
After meeting with two different vets right away and trying to help Ell, they realized this was more than a “little” surgery. There was concern Ell might be a hermaphrodite, and it could be more complicated than cosmetic. After several months of trying to meet Ell’s needs, they realized it was more than they could manage. They wanted the best chance for Ell and reached out to AAE for help.
You see, Ell was born with a congenital abnormality – Ell has a sheath, but it appears he doesn’t have a penis (though, there’s a chance it’s stuck inside him or it’s not where it belongs). For now, we assume Ell is a colt, but missing his part. We’re waiting for updated blood results to check testosterone levels. Could there be hidden testicles, too?
Ell is able to pass urine, but big surprise, without a penis, Ell can’t urinate normally. Urine dribbles from his sheath almost continuously. Sadly, the urine scalds Ell’s skin around his sheath, down his belly, and down his legs. Poor little thing, it’s so painful. Though we do what we can to minimize the scalding, it’s painful being treated, too.
Ell needs surgery to remove some of his sheath to allow urine to flow freely. Depending on blood results, a second surgery may be in store. For now, we’ll focus on fixing the sheath.
All things considered, Ell is the sweetest little thing. That said, Ell has some strong opinions about things and wasn’t very good with hoof handling. Considering sheath cleanings and scalding, it’s understandable. He’s learning to give his hooves, and we’re working on the basics, too, like trimming his hooves, vaccines, and a change in diet to help him put on a little weight. Ell’s already come a long way in a short time at AAE. Let’s give him a chance!
If you’re able to help Ell have a better life, please make a donation toward his surgery and care costs on his behalf.
We held our 9th annual Boots & Bling this past Saturday evening and it was a smashing success. Thank you to all of our sponsors, event guests, donors, volunteers, auction bidders, and supporters near and far!
Together we raised over $76,000 for horses-in-need! Thanks to you, horses will get a second chance at a life filled with love, health, and happiness!
Horses like Granger, one of our newest intakes.
Granger arrived at AAE just about two weeks. He was started on a refeeding program, and he’s finishing quarantine soon. He’ll have a dental and vaccines once cleared.
Granger was in a small herd, and his needs were not being met. He came to AAE after law enforcement intervention. We’ll be getting to know more about this guy over coming weeks before he’s available for adoption.
Your support helped remove this handsome guy from a bad situation.
Second Chance Auction
Good news – if you missed the Boots & Bling silent auction, our Second Chance Auction will give you another opportunity to bid on items to help horses-in-need! This silent online auction is open now. It will close Sunday at 6pm.
Register, browse the available items, and start bidding by clicking the button below.
Register, browse the available items, and start bidding by clicking the button below.
The Journey to Pilot Hill
See our journey to build AAE’s new home in Pilot Hill and learn how you can help us with our next project and help transform the lives of horses-in-need even more.
The Herd Sponsorship is only available through midnight tonight and there are only 2 tables left! Since we didn’t get this last call out yesterday, we’ve extended one more day!
Let’s sell out this event so we can help more horses!
The Herd Sponsorship is perfect for small businesses, families, and friends! It includes a Boots & Bling table for 12 and recognition on our website, social media channels, and newsletters – all for just $500.
Use Promo Code HERDAAE22
Grab 11 of your friends, family, co-workers, riding buddies, or fellow animal lovers to come enjoy a fun-filled evening together at a Herd table.
Boots & Bling is AAE’s most important fundraising event of the year as it supports our ongoing operations and allows us to continue helping horses, one horse at a time.
Boots & Bling raises funds to help horses like Cody.
Cody is a 1999 Arabian gelding that came to AAE in January 2020 after long-time family health issues with his owner and the passing of his caretaker.
When Cody arrived at AAE, he was very underweight and in much need of dental care, something so easy to fix, yet many seem unaware of basic needs of older horses.
While at AAE, he received much needed dental care, and all of his other basic needs were updated including hoof care, vaccines, and deworming. Cody also got a new microchip. Cody gained quite a bit of weight. Once he started feeling great (and looking great), he worked with our trainer to refresh his ground manners and riding skills. In a matter of months, he regained good health, and he found his forever home.
Join us at our 9th annual Boots & Bling as a Herd Sponsor!
The Herd Sponsorship is perfect for small businesses, families, and friends! It includes a table at the event for 12, recognition on our website, social media channels, and newsletters.
This sponsor package is $500 and is available only through midnight! Act fast and sign up before it’s too late!
who wish to support the event and AAE in a bigger way.
Boots & Bling will be held on Saturday, August 6 at the
El Dorado County Fairgrounds, in Placerville.
Doors open at 4pm.
This evening features a catered BBQ dinner by Blackjack Grill,
and DJ music and entertainment by Sundance Kid,
live and silent auctions, stories from our barn, and more.
Boots & Bling is AAE’s most important fundraising event of the year as it supports our ongoing operations and allows us to continue helping horses, one horse at a time.
Don’t need an entire table? Buy individual tickets!
If you want to sit together, please buy your tickets in one transaction.
Boots & Bling is AAE’s most important fundraising event of the year as it supports our ongoing operations and allows us to continue helping horses, one horse at a time.
If you want to sit together, please buy your tickets in one transaction.
because ticket sales for our 9th annual Boots & Bling
will be available at noon today, Tuesday, May 31!
The event will be held on Saturday, August 6 at the
El Dorado County Fairgrounds, in Placerville.
Doors open at 4pm.
This evening features a catered BBQ dinner by Blackjack Grill,
and DJ music and entertainment by Sundance Kid,
live and silent auctions, stories from our barn, and more.
Boots & Bling is AAE’s most important fundraising event of the year. This event supports our ongoing operations and allows us to continue helping horses, one horse at a time.
We hope you’ll join us!!
Act quick! This event has sold out the past five years, and our early bird ticket price is good through June 15, 2022
You are giving big today, and we are so grateful. This is the spirit that changes lives! We are so close to our goal, with about $2000 to go, and if you give more, we’ll add another load of hay to the list!
Barney is another fan favorite. He came to AAE back in January 2019 with a bundle of issues. Barney was underweight by 250 to 300 pounds, he had respiratory issues, he had an intestinal issue, and he had some basic care needs that hadn’t been met.
He rebounded quickly. At one point, he was eating 54 pounds of pellets a day. Now, he’s a pretty easy keeper and takes in 15 to 20 pounds of pellets a day. Barney likes his girls, too. At any given moment, if you see ol’ Sierra in the pasture, Barney is usually right by her side. Poor mare, there are days you can see her thinking….”can I please just have a day to myself???”
For those that don’t know, Barney is a 23 (-ish) year old Belgian Draft Horse! He’s 17.0 hh and weighs in at nearly 1,500 pounds. His kind eye and gentle giant ways have made him a volunteer favorite. When he arrived at 20-ish, we knew he was well into his golden years, and we were lucky to have a sanctuary spot for him. Now at 23-ish, he’s upping the average life span for drafts.
Barney has a current need we are exploring. As many of you know, AAE volunteers are the eyes, ears, and voices for the horses in the program (and beyond). One day not so long ago, a very observative volunteer noticed Barney had streams of water coming out of his nostrils while he was drinking from a trough. With the help of a scope, our docs discovered his epiglottis is displaced. Unfortunately, due to a few challenges with equipment that day, we couldn’t get to the cause. We’ll know more after another scope. There are at least a couple possibilities, one is a bit easier to fix than the other. If it’s on the good side, a reasonably easy surgical procedure can help him. If not, he’s not a good candidate for the other surgery due to his age, size, and breed. So, keep your fingers crossed for a good outcome for this big guy. Your help today helps us provide care needed to give horses like Barney the best we can.
Big Day for Big Barney, right? Well, he thinks every day is a big day. For now, he and Sierra will head off for an evening stroll, leaving us with a great rear view! Love those big butts!!
Barney says thank you for helping him when his life looked so grim. You picked him up and brought him back to a good place, and he wouldn’t have found is girl, Sierra if you hadn’t. He’s cheering you on to Give Big and help him, help others. We’re so close to our goal! Help us cross that line! Donate, share the link, share his story, and share your love of horses.
It’s not to late, you too can raise the bar by pledging matching funds now! Inspire giving and double your donation to make your impact twice as BIG! To learn more about starting your own matching funds campaign for AAE, send us an email.
Our gratitude for your support is immense! Thank you! Your support is changing lives, one horse at a time!! Super great news, we’ve met our match, and as we write, we are more than halfway to our goal with $19,385, and we’re narrowing the gap to $25,000.
Jennings is another special horse that’s here today because of you! He’s still looking for his very special person, too. Are you his forever?
JENNINGS
Jennings is a handsome guy that came to AAE from the same distressed mustang sanctuary situation in the latter part of 2020. Like Chesney, Clare, and Teea, the sanctuary had cared for him (and many more), for about 20 years before falling on hard times. The horses were living in desert conditions. Because a big storm took out portions of perimeter fencing on the property years before, most were in their own small stalls (24′ x 24′ at most), each with a small shelter (roof only). No turn out, no attention. Because Jennings had been ridden in the past (prior to landing at the sanctuary) and was readily halterable unlike some, he got privileges. Though he was in a stall when we first met, the next time, we learned he was in a rotation of horses that roamed the property and had access to a stack of hay. Not only was on the thin side and past due for basic care, he had a sizable and uncomfortable looking growth on the side of his sheath that urgently needed veterinary attention.
Jennings is a 2005 BLM mustang. He’s goofy, he’s curious, he’s playful, and he’s a character! He’s really a big personality. Though he’d like you to think he is, he’s not the most confident guy. He also loves the girls, and he will protect his girl fiercely (whomever she is at the time). Though he’s pretty good when taken from the herd, he doesn’t much appreciate his girl being taken from the herd (for grooming, hoof care, vet exam, etc.). He really enjoys attention, but has moments of insecurity that need a handler who is a bit more experienced to understand.
From the time we first met Jennings until we picked him and the others up two weeks later, the growth had doubled in size. And from the time we got him to AAE and the vet saw him until the biopsy results results came, it had doubled again. We confirmed it was a squamous cell carcinoma, and it definitely needed to be removed. Not only was it likely painful, but it was a fly attractant extraordinaire. Fortunately, surgical removal was successful, and we were elated to know that Jennings was left with clean margins around the prior growth.
Playful, charismatic, hilarious, that’s Jennings. He’s usually easy peasy to halter, lead, farrier, trailer, etc. Saddle or bridle him, no worries. Usually. Add a rider, and he gets a little less confident, a little less “usually”. That said, we really believe with the right person, this guy can shine, and the way he defends his girls so fiercely, we think he’ll care for his person just the same, if he’s given the time, patience, and effort he so deserves. Does that sound like a match for you?
He’s so playful in the herd, and sometimes he’s really a pest. He chases, he nips, he instigates, and he raises the bar. He and Ryder have a bromance going, and he even gets our senior, bitchy-broad (oops, did I say that) Bonnie to be playful in his games. My goodness, she rears tall in her antics with this silly guy, and it’s hard to believe that she’s in her 20s, but she sure gets it goin’ and gives it back! The right home would have another horse with a similarly big personality, so their playful antics can go on…. and on … and on! You won’t be bored with this guy, that’s for sure!
Jennings is still waiting for that home of his own. If you have experience with mustangs, are looking to make a special bond, and you have another playful horse, you might be the one he’s looking for!
Jennings so appreciates the opportunity you gave him for a better life! He says it’s a BIG day, and he knows you have a lot of nonprofits to choose from. He wants to pay it forward by asking you to help us meet our goal and help other horses like him. Donate, share the link, share a story, and share your love of horses.
Thanks to so many of you, we’ve met our match, and we are inching toward our goal of raising $25,000 by midnight tonight! We are only a little over $5,000 away, and we have just over 12 hours to go!
Your support today will help with the rising costs of hay, feed, fuel, and other operational needs. We are confident you are going to get us through the finish line however you can: donate, share, share, and share more, spread the word about AAE, and put in a good word for the work we do.
Please consider making a donation to AAE in honor of Jennings!
It’s not to late, you too can raise the bar by pledging matching funds now! Inspire giving and double your donation to make your impact twice as BIG! To learn more about starting your own matching funds campaign for AAE, send us an email.
As we’re settling into our new home in Pilot Hill, it seems the perfect time to reflect on some of the special horses you have helped over the years.
We are all so very thankful, incredibly grateful, and unbelievably blessed to have your support in making better the lives of so many horses!!
This beautiful trio is still looking for a home. Chesney, Clare, and Teea are so very bonded, the ideal situation is for them to move to a home where they can be together. They are mid-teens and each very unique!
CHESNEY, CLARE, and TEEA
Three red-headed mares, oh my! Chesney, Clare, and Teea came to AAE from a distressed mustang sanctuary situation in the latter part of 2020. The sanctuary had cared for these girls, and many more, for about 20 years before falling on hard times. They were living in desert conditions, each in their own small stall (24′ x 24′ at most), each with a small shelter (roof only). No turn out, no attention. They were in need of basic care, it had been deferred much too long. It was a sad sight, needless to say. Though not a lot of handling, they each wanted to trust, and they trusted enough to follow us quietly onto the trailer, as if they new it was the path that offered the hope of something better, a new beginning.
CHESNEY
Chesney was so incredibly shy and uncertain. She stood firm, but trembled. The fear in her eyes, and the quiver in her body spoke volumes, but she was willing. She allowed a slow reach below her neck and behind her ears to place a halter, then a lead. Slowly, she followed. She tried so hard to understand what was asked and then oblige.
Chesney is a 2006 BLM mustang. She got the works (e.g. dental, hoof care, vaccines, deworming, and a microchip) shortly after arriving at AAE. She’s slowly blossomed since arrival. She’s gaining confidence, and she becoming a greet you in the pasture kinda girl. Chesney still needs to grow some confidence, but she’s come a long way, and with a steady, confident person of her own by her side, she has a ton of potential. She halters, leads, and loads, though not fearlessly. She still needs some patience and reassurance.
Her hooves and body condition have improved immensely, and she’s absolutely gorgeous strutting her stuff with Teea.
CLARE
Clare was a bit more confident. She new humans were her ticket to food. That said, she had her limits, namely, anything around her hind end. Beware! We got one warning, and didn’t test her limits. That said, if we respected her hind end, she was easy peasy. Poor mare had been suffering some gnarly allergies. She had large raised scarred areas on all of her legs, like scar over scar over scar. She had a rogue hoof. It was much longer than the rest, and it sure seemed uncomfortable as it rotated outward when she walked.
Clare is also a 2006 mustang. She also got the works shortly after arrival at AAE (e.g. hoof care, dental care, vaccines, deworming, and a microchip). Her legs were treated with an antibiotic ointment long-term, and they have improved tremendously.
Clare (left) is a sassy one. She’s a mare for sure. Opinionated, strong-willed, and sweet as pie when she wants to be. She’s learning to live in a cooperative way, maybe not with all the other horses, but she’s understanding cooperation among the two-leggers is the way to go. Humor aside, she’s got a really sweet side, and she enjoys being in the company of humans, in the pasture or in a smaller space.
TEEA
Teea was such a red hot mess, a diamond in the rough. She was a pathetic sight with pancakes for front hoofs, and she, too, was so very scared. She trembled, but stood planted while introducing the halter and lead. It took a few times to assure her we meant no harm. Giving her time to understand and patience to earn her trust was enough. As the saying goes, with mustangs, slower is faster. She walked as if she had scuba flippers on her front hooves. If only we had nippers in the trailer, it would have made the long road easier. She loaded fine then, though she’s not so confident loading now.
Teea is a 2007 mustang. She too got the works shortly after arrival at AAE (e.g. hoof care, dental care, vaccines, deworming, and a microchip). Her hooves took a few trims to get them right, but she’s maintaining very well with maintenance trims now.
Teea’s confidence comes from her girls, mostly Chesney. If she loses sight of her, she loses her mind, kinda. It takes a big effort to bring her back to thinking about whats in front of her at hand. She’s getting better with time, but it’s clear, Chesney and Clare are her world. To separate them at this point would be an injustice to the bond they have. Teea is definitely most heavily bonded. With all of the space they have now, where there is one, there are three. They are looking for a home, together. Can you imagine looking out your window and seeing three beautiful redheads??? It would be the perfect ending to their time with AAE.
Chesney, Clare, and Teea are still waiting for that home of their own. If you have experience with mustangs, love the bonds you make with them, and would like to be a fabulous solution for these three big, beautiful personalities, it would be a dream come true for all of us!
No matter what, Chesney, Clare, and Teea appreciate the opportunity you gave them for a better life!
Big Day of Giving is the perfect day to honor them and other horses like them!
Gentle reminder, a generous donor has offered to match dollar for dollar, every dollar donated, up to $5,000 for Big Day of Giving from now through midnight tomorrow, May 5! We are just over the halfway point at $2531 since the match was announced. We have just over 24 hours to meet our match!
Our goal for Big DOG is to raise $25,000 to help with the rising costs of hay, feed, fuel, and other operational needs. We are quite a ways from our goal, but we’re confident you are going to help us get there however you can: donate, share, share, or share more, spread the word about AAE, and put in a good word for the work we do.
Please consider making a donation to AAE in honor of the three redheads tomorrow for BDOG, and DOUBLE your impact.
It’s not to late, you too can raise the bar by pledging matching funds now! Inspire giving and double your donation to make your impact twice as BIG! To learn more about starting your own matching funds campaign for AAE, send us an email.
As we’re settling into our new home in Pilot Hill, it seems the perfect time to reflect on some of the special horses you have helped over the years.
Another oldie but goodie is elderman, Danny! This ol’ guy is well known for his sweet demeanor and his hugs.
DANNY
Danny’s story isn’t one of neglect, abandonment, abuse, or poor care. Sadly, it’s one of human health and aging. Danny was loved beyond words. So much, his former owner considered euthanizing him rather than risk him having difficulties transitioning to a new home, ending up in a bad home, or worse, the fear of auctions and the slaughter pipeline. It was an emotional day for all when we picked Danny up and brought him home to AAE.
Danny’s owner’s health was failing, and she was unable to provide ongoing care for him any longer. He knew no other owner, as he was born to her mare. Mama rejected him for four days, and on the fifth day, Mama finally accepted him. Danny spent those four days with his surrogate mom while she held mom and made sure he was able to nurse, initially go get the colostrum he needed. It was a very rocky start, but Danny and his other mom grew a bond like no other. She trained him; she rode him; they competed together. They spent 27 years together until they had to say good bye. Fortunately, the timing was right, and Danny had special people in his life that paved the way for him to get to AAE. He arrived in 2017, and at 27, we knew Danny would spend the rest of his years with us.
You can see the pattern here! Danny loves everyone he meets, and he is very generous with his hugs. Similarly, everyone that meets Danny falls instantly in love the moment he rests his chin on their shoulder. The emotions are palpable! Everyone simply melts when he rests his head on their shoulder.
Danny is another sanctuary resident that helps teach new volunteers how to work around horses. He very much enjoys interacting with humans, and spa days getting groomed. Danny is the most kind, mellow, and affectionate horse we have known, and we are so grateful he is here.
Danny appreciates the kindness you’ve shown him and his herd mates! Big Day of Giving is the perfect day to honor Danny and other horses like him!
You too can raise the bar by pledging matching funds now! Inspire giving and double your donation to make your impact twice as BIG! To learn more about starting your own matching funds campaign for AAE, send us an email.
Big Day of Giving is this Thursday!
You can double the impact of your donation by helping us meet our initial goal to match $5000. [Help us reach our goal of $25,000 by making an early gift anytime from now until May 4 at midnight or donate on the BIG DAY itself.
Your gifts this Big Day of Giving will help the horses in so many ways including providing feed, veterinary care, and hoof and dental care. Hay prices have skyrocketed with the early weather this year. Your donations help assure we have ample funding for the care of our horses.
If you’d prefer to donate by mailing a check or via PayPal or Square, those are options, too. Send us an email, and we’ll send you the address or a link.
Big Day of Giving (BDOG) is a 24-hour online giving challenge to help AAE and other non-profits in the Sacramento area to raise funds and awareness. But you can support us on BDOG wherever you live!
Boots & Bling is AAE’s most important fundraising event of the year for our horses and horses-in-need. There are many ways to support this event!. Sponsor the event? Sponsor a table? Donate to our auctions? Can you help? Together, in many ways, we can make a difference for horses like Danny!
If you are interested in volunteering, sponsoring, or donating, please send us an email describing your interest to bootsnbling@allaboutequine.org.
Interested in volunteering at event? We are looking for volunteers to help with the Boots & Bling teams in the following areas: event planning and decor, sponsorships and auctions, ticket sales, and volunteer coordinating. We will be scheduling a planning meeting soon!
If you are interested in volunteering, sponsoring, or donating, please send us an email describing your interest to bootsnbling@allaboutequine.org.
14K Yellow Gold Diamond Earrings
14K Yellow Gold and Amethyst Ring
14K Yellow Gold Lady’s Emerald and Sapphire Ring
14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Bracelet
Bidding is open now and will close on December 15 at 5pm PST!
A huge THANK YOU to 
a 
Cody is a 1999 Arabian gelding that came to AAE in January 2020 after long-time family health issues with his owner and the passing of his caretaker.
