Alumni Update: Mac
Here is an update from Mac’s adopter Jerre from late this summer: Our biggest success has been a deep dive into positive reinforcement and collaborative care. I give Mac the option to refuse any contact, haltering, fly mask, etc., while encouraging participation with…
October Joel Conner Clinic Report: Barb
Annika rode Barb in the October Joel clinic, and has the following to say about their experience together: “Participating in the October Joel Conner clinic with Barb was a lesson in presence, patience, and partnership. Barb is a small horse with a big…
Brandit Forever
We have been struggling with Brandy and Bandit’s quality of life for some time now. Over the past two years, both mares have faced challenges that have required us to closely monitor their comfort and happiness. At the beginning of November, Brandy’s condition…
Alumni Update: Opal (Bella)
Opal’s adopter Lyn recently provided a quick update and photos of Opal (Bella). Right now we are working through a Cushings diagnosis and trying to get dosage right. But we still have fun walking around the property and getting a little grazing time in.
October Joel Conner Clinic Report: Brownie
Lexee N, who has been working and riding Brownie, brought him into the October Joel Conner clinic for his first riding clinic. Here’s her report on how it went: “Oh Mr. Brownie! This guy has come so far in such a short time and impresses me every day. This…
Alumni Update: Pippi
Pippi and her 14-year-old human, Taryn, are doing well and take riding and jumping lessons together. They did their first horse trials in August and competed in their first novice schooling event in October.
Mahina’s First Rides
With her long neck and big doe eyes, we have lovingly nicknamed Mahina ‘Littlefoot,’ and at the end of October, our dearest Littlefoot achieved a great big milestone: her first rides. It has been a real pleasure helping this mare develop — first in her trust of…
Halter Starting Venturo
The covered round pen has been witness to a tremendous amount of halter startings. This process varies in ease, but as a default always poses some degree of challenge. The Tivas and the Arties and the Esmes — uncertain and nervous and braced. It takes time, hours upon…
Theo Claus: A SAFE Christmas Story
It was Venturo and Alvaro who started the rumor. “Did you know Theo is Santa Claus?” To skeptical minds, the boys doubled down. “It’s true, me ‘n Vinnie saw him with a red hat on.” The story only gained embellishment from there, Alvaro taking point when it came to…
Supporting Frida
After the incredibly tough decision to let Paloma go, our hearts and efforts immediately turned toward Frida. We were faced with the difficult task of separating her from the filly she had so lovingly cared for and raised. Those of you who have been with SAFE through…
A Devastating Loss
It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of our dear 6.5‑month-old filly, Paloma. After seven weeks of veterinary care, bodywork, and being surrounded by love and every healing intention, her body told us it was time to let her go. This has been an immeasurable…
Alumni Update: Karma
This is what Karma had to say when one of the Alumni Team volunteers visited. I am Karma and if I may say so myself, I am a real sweetheart. It is so easy to be sweet though, in my final home here in Graham. My meal service arrives 5 times a day consisting of yummy…
Bridget Back at SAFE
Changes in her family circumstances necessitated Bridget’s return to SAFE, where we would be able to best support her in the search for a new home. Quickly, Bridget cemented herself as a volunteer favorite. With her sweet disposition and welcoming nickers, it isn’t…
Artie is Adopted!
We have a very exciting announcement to make: Artie Shaw has been adopted! We’ve all loved Artie for so long, holding our breath as he transformed into the sweet, willing gelding he is today. To say “hours of work” went into him is a serious understatement—his journey…
