Manny’s story
Manny is a Percheron gelding that came to us through a draft horse rescue. He had been abandoned and came close to being purchased for the meat market. Although his massive size can be intimidating at first, his kindness has helped many overcome their fears. He has a true love of humans and a magical gift of unconditional acceptance to those in need.
Arabelle’s story
Arabelle, a Percheron mare, was rescued from an extreme neglect situation in which she lost her foal due to malnutrition. She came to us grieving and very angry. We slowly earned her trust and respect through kindness and patience. She has shown us her gift of understanding people who may have built emotional walls from pain and trauma. Her beautiful eyes used to judge human beings as a source of pain, but now show empathy and kindness.
Noche’s story
Noche is a registered paint mare that that was bred for her Overo color until she had health problems and discomfort concerning a swollen eye. We took her for treatment at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the University of Georgia and a cancerous tumor was found, along with a respiratory infection called pythiosis. The eye was removed successfully, the pythiosis was treated with an experimental vaccine therapy, and Noche has achieved a full recovery. She has been a great partner working with people that have physical disabilities, and has provided many rides for our clients who use a wheelchair. Her best friend is Shawnee, who was donated along with her to our program.
Shawnee’s story
Shawnee is a registered paint mare that came to us with Noche after a long career as a brood mare. She was neglected as a foal and has a scar from her halter growing into her little face when she was young. She loves her job here and takes it very seriously. She is attentive and careful with our special needs clients and has a youthful, curious spirit. She must have been a wonderful mother to all her foals because she adores children.
Cookie’s story
Cookie, a mammoth donkey, came to us with her daughter Peaches from a local horse rescue. She was very fearful and shy when she arrived, but now feels comfortable enough to bray loudly when her breakfast is late! She loves hugs and attention, especially from children. We are working with her and Peaches to include them in our riding program and possibly therapeutic driving in the future.
Peaches’ story
Peaches, a mammoth donkey, came to us from a Georgia horse rescue with her mom, Cookie. She is very affectionate and a little mischievous… she loves to steal hats and ponytail holders from her human friends’ heads! She enjoys hugs when she is offered one. We are working with her and Cookie to begin a therapeutic driving program and be comfortable with riders.
Shrek’s story
Shrek came to us from the Georgia Equine Rescue League with three other mini horses. They had been rescued from a neglect situation and the kind rescuer became ill and could no longer care for them. He is a good-natured soul; very patient and tolerant. He enjoys giving rides to small children and enjoys their company.
Pinky’s story
Pinky came to us from the Georgia Equine Rescue League with three other mini horses. They had been rescued from a neglect situation and the lady who adopted them became ill and could not longer care for them. She is the alpha mare of our mini-herd and Mason’s mother. She loves kisses and hugs and human companionship. One of her favorite things to do is kick up her heels, gallop around the pasture, and get her herd fired up just for the fun of it!
Putt Putt’s story
Putt Putt came to us from the Georgia Equine Rescue League with three other mini horses. They had been rescued from a neglect situation and after a few years the person who rescued them became ill and could no longer care for them. He was not as trusting as the other minis when he first arrived, but with daily love and attention he became comfortable and his spunky personality began to show. He now insists on being the center of attention!
Mason’s story
Mason came to us from the Georgia Equine Rescue League with three other mini horses. When they were rescued from a neglect situation Pinky was pregnant with Mason. He had an under-developed eye, possibly from malnutrition, and had it removed at two weeks old. They were surrendered to G.E.R.L after their owner became ill and could not longer care for them. When he came to us he was definitely the spoiled baby! After patiently teaching him proper manners, he has become a wonderful partner in therapeutic sessions.
Tiny Bubbles’ story
Tiny Bubbles came to us with Noche and Shawnee. He is the smallest of our mini-horses, but before he arrived he definitely had a Napoleon complex as he was the boss of those two big girls! He was also very overweight and in danger of foundering, so he went on a healthy diet and exercise program. He is now fit and trim and enjoys his job of making people smile, especially young children. He is our official unicorn at our fundraising birthday parties.
Freya’s story
Freya is our newest and youngest member of our mini horse herd. She was rescued as a yearling by a friend of the farm and is learning good manners and trust. She is best buds with Tiny Bubbles. She loves to play chase with her dog friends until she’s exhausted enough to lay flat on the ground to sunbathe.