Wishing You a Matteo-Approved Holiday!
The following is from All About Equine Animal Rescue:
All About Equine Animal Rescue, Inc
Matteo
Adoptable Horses
New USRider Offer
Volunteer Corner, Volunteer Needs
AAE Used Tack Store + Holiday Hours
Other Ways to Help
AAE Friends, Supporters, & Service Providers
It’s that time at the end of the year when we reflect upon the horses (and other animals) you have helped over the past 12 months. We are filled with so much gratitude for your support, because this is what makes rescuing and caring for horses-in-need possible. Every horse represents the combined efforts of our community – volunteers, donors, and supporters who believe in the power of second chances.
As is tradition in December, each day this month, we share stories from the past year that are the direct result of you and your dedication to horses-in-need. Thank you for being such an incredible horse warrior and fighting for horses who need another chance. We hope you enjoy! Happy Holidays to all!
MATTEO
Matteo is a handsome ~11-year old who came to AAE in Fall 2023. We were told he was a Colonial Spanish Barb horse that came from a larger herd after the passing of his owner. He was a stallion, he was not halterable/touchable, and he had very large summer sore on his face. (Summer sores are associated with the life cycles of stomach worms and transmitted by flies). Because he was so fearful and reactive to humans, no one at his prior home had been able to handle him to treat the summer sore. He had been living in about a 24′ x 24′ paddock for a year, and had no turn-out or opportunity to run.
We got to work, and after consultation with vet, we were able to improvise a bit and treat him with antibiotics, steroids, and various fly deterrents. Cooling weather and end of the fly season helped, too. It took time, but it healed. Unfortunately, it seems he’s prone to summer sores. This past summer, he ended up with two small sores that eventually resolved. Matteo is quite a challenge; he’s not really interested humans touching him, though, he’s making slow progress. Fortunately, he’s curious and he’s food motivated, and we’ll keep working to break down his walls, little by little.
Matteo was gelded earlier this year, and once healed, he was introduced individually to some of the geldings. He was recently moved to the mustang pasture (about 20 acres). For the first time in a long time, he can run with and interact with a group of other horses (geldings), and he’s enjoying it immensely. Once the weather changes in spring, he’ll come in again for a little more learning, and I’m sure we’ll learn more from him. For now, he’s a pretty happy pasture horse.
This holiday season, the horses we rescue have only one wish: a bright future. With your support, we can give them more than just shelter — we can give them hope. Join us in making their dreams come true by helping us provide the funding needed to care for and rehome these majestic creatures. Your generosity this December will help more horses find their second chance in 2025.
Your donations provide a safe, loving home for rescued horses. Your contribution will ensure that horses like Matteo find the peace and care they deserve, now and in the future. Any amount is very much appreciated, and it makes a big difference for the horses.