Can You Help Us Save More Horses This Winter?

When Sugarplum first arrived in our care, she was a mare in desperate need of help. A local horseman had rescued her from a group of feral horses bound for slaughter and reached out to us for support. The feral horses of Wheeler County hold a special place in our hearts. Years ago, we helped another group from the same area, known as the Howard 22, escape a similar fate

From the beginning, it was clear she had endured a rough life. Covered head to toe in ticks, she had spent years surviving in a feral herd. Despite her hardships and with patience and care, she quickly made progress in taming. Her trainer worked tirelessly to help her adjust, and soon, Sugarplum was standing quietly for tick removal, allowing veterinary exams, and even picking up her feet—a testament to her resilience.

During her initial care, we confirmed that Sugarplum was around 20 years old and in foal. Her past may be a mystery, but her future is full of promise.

After successfully graduating from taming, Sugarplum recently moved to her maternity foster home where she has settled in beautifully. She’s estimated to foal around May. In the meantime, Sugarplum is soaking up human affection. She adores being groomed, nickers when her foster mom enters the barn, and has formed a close bond with Cakes, a 27-year-old gelding who keeps her company. After a life of pure survival, she is finally experiencing the comfort and kindness she deserves.

Thanks to your support, Sugarplum can leave her difficult past behind and embrace a future filled with love and security. Instead of fighting to survive, her foal will grow up knowing safety, nourishment, and human kindness.

Together, we can show Sugarplum—and the world—that compassion makes all the difference.