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HALTER blog

Stories of Inspiration

Photo of Child with Stubby the Horse Image

HE WAS BABYSITTER, TEACHER, COACH, AND COMPANION FOR 27 YEARS.

Stubby

We've all had that one special horse, who changed the lives of not just our family, but many others. That was Stubby. Bred to be a world champion cutting horse, Stubby possessed not just cow sense, but people sense. He was babysitter, teacher, coach, and companion, for 27 years. Stubby helped countless visitors overcome their fear of horses. He was the "first ride" for more little kids than I can recall. His sweet nature made him a perfect pasture-mate for just about everyone. Arthritis finally slowed him down, and one cold, rainy night, he slipped and was unable to get up. Without rescue equipment and some extra, skilled muscle, I was powerless to help him. I spent the 2 worst hours of my life waiting for the vet. That night, HALTER was born.

This is Stubby's legacy.

Julie Atwood

Photo of Child with Stubby the Horse Image

HE LED OUR FAMILY DOWN PATHS WE NEVER DREAMED OF...

Keoke

Twenty years ago the horse whisperer himself called this guy a "Tasmanian devil." While he may have been spunky he was the most loyal friend a teen could ask for. He was the babysitter of the herd and taught me the definition of hard work, perseverance, and patience. He led our family down paths we never dreamed of, sparked a passion in my parents for the equine community and who knows how many horses have been rescued because of that. We've been introduced to some pretty incredible people in the process. 

Thank you for the journey Keoke.

John and Deb Fox

Photo of Child with Stubby the Horse Image

TINY WAS KIND AND GENTLE WITH ALL THE OTHER ANIMALS AND WON THE HEARTS OF ALL WHO CAME TO VISIT.

Tiny

It is with great sadness we said goodbye to Tiny our beautiful Moo Cow of 18 ½ years. Like all good herd animals knowing it was her time, she wandered off and sadly fell into a ravine. With over a dozen firefighters and animal rescue people helping us throughout the night, we were able to get her to a safe place, but she was just too weak, so we did the hardest thing that all good parents do, and put her out of her suffering. Tiny was loved by sooo many people and it seemed fitting to have so many people around her, fighting for her life. We are very grateful for those that came to help.

Tiny, we miss you!

Suzanne & John Fouts

Photo of Child with Stubby the Horse Image

Ericka was truly a beautiful soul.

Ericka

Ericka was the defacto poster child for Rancho Compasión. She was kind and gentle with everyone, whether pig, dog, or human. 

In June 2018, Ericka fell into a ravine and was unable to get herself out. A heroic effort was made by a team including local vets, volunteer firefighters, Marin Humane, Marin County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, and its Animal Rescue Technicians, all working together.

Despite Ericka's distress, she remained calm and put her trust in the team that came to her aid. Her Vet determined that she could not recover from her injuries, but a remarkable group of caring people were able to give her comfort and a peaceful end. Ericka provided her rescue team with many valuable lessons, a legacy will help them to help more animals in the future.

Miyoko and Michael Schinner