The Importance of Circles — Joel Conner

The Importance of Circles — Joel Conner

Joel Conner is back at SAFE this weekend for another three day clinic. Joel Conner is a remarkable horseman and teacher whose dedication to classic vaquero horsemanship is unparalleled. Following the traditions of Ray Hunt, Tom and Bill Dorrance, and Buck Brannaman,...
Alumni Update: Bliss and Evie

Alumni Update: Bliss and Evie

Bliss and Evie continue doing well, although they are no longer turned out together because Evie tried to kick Bliss. Bliss now has a one-year-old pony as a pasture mate who gets along well with her. Evie is great with kids and enjoys trail riding.
Brownie’s Glow Up

Brownie’s Glow Up

What a difference 6 months makes! Brownie came to SAFE in decent enough shape — not particularly underweight (unlike his herdmate Clarissa, who was incredibly thin), but when you look at the horse who arrived and the horse who is here today, you would not be wrong to...

Beck Wren, Executive Assistant

As assistant to SAFE Executive Director Bonnie Hammond, Beck Wren wrangles calendars, processes your generous donations, crafts updates for members of the SAFEkeepers Club, and strives to keep his inveterate love of puns in check. Beck started at SAFE as a chore shift...

Bob May, Barn Staff

Bob May started volunteering at SAFE in 2021. In 2024, he joined Barn Staff, supporting volunteer chore teams, caring for the horses, and helping maintain the facilities. Growing up in suburban Detroit, his favorite place was “the Farm” in southwest Michigan belonging...
Sparky and Rojo, Heart at Work

Sparky and Rojo, Heart at Work

Sparky and Rojo, our two miniature donkey ambassadors, recently returned to SAFE to be able to greet guests at our 2025 Heart of the Horse. These two sweethearts have been dipping their (tiny, adorable) hooves in the water of attending more events, and what better...
Alumni Update: Coco, Minnie and Teddi

Alumni Update: Coco, Minnie and Teddi

Coco, Minnie and Teddi continue to do very well together. While at SAFE, Teddi served as a wonderful aunt, watching over and teaching first Minnie and then Coco herd dynamics. Teddi has extended her motherly instincts to the bovine species. Marti told us Teddi was...
Venturo is Five Months Old!

Venturo is Five Months Old!

Venturo turned five months old last week, and he sure is turning into one handsome little colt! He is a sweet and curious little fellow, one who very much appreciates scratches and a good romp on grass with mom, to whom he is baring a striking resemblance these days....
Trinket Under Saddle

Trinket Under Saddle

With only a handful of rides, Trinket is coming along great. We are keeping things short and sweet (just like Trinket herself) but this smart little mare is a fast learner! She is quickly getting the hang of coming up and down through the gaits on a feel, and recently...