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Dreamchaser PMU Rescue & Rehab.

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Animal Protection & Welfare, Animal-Related, Animal Training, Animals, Equestrian, Sports

Mission: Dreamchaser originally began in 2002 to save mares and foals used in the drug industry from slaughter. We educate the public about the suffering that occurs in order to make the drug Premarin and let them know there are truly natural alternatives. Through the years we have also saved abused and abandoned horses and found them loving, qualified homes whenever possible. We provide sanctuary to a variety of rescued animals including llamas, donkeys, sheep, goats, pigs and peacocks! These animals are used in our educational, USDA licensed petting zoo. Dreamchaser loves children and matches at risk kids with rescued horses in our wonderful Lean on Me program, where they learn about horse care, they groom and then ride a horse. Lean on Me is offered at no cost to the children or associated agencies. We depend on your donations to fund the program.

Community Stories

42 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

horsefree1, Donor

Rating: 5

07/16/2022

This rescue organization is not only helping Premarin mares and foals but has lovingly dedicated themselves to all equines. Whether it’s horses who were neglected or the mustangs they adopted from the largest rescue in equine history or the rescue of 10 wild onaqui mustangs rounded up - they selflessly have dedicated every day 365 24/7 to these magnificent creatures

jewels4777 Donor

Rating: 5

07/01/2022

I first met Susan in Arizona 11 years ago.
I volunteered to work at Dreamchaser when my son left for college. My 12 year old grand daughter would join in on the fun with mostly providing carrots and apples to the animals Susan had.
I fell in love with a 6 month old horse named Eclipse and adopted her after about 6 months. She just turned 11 years old. Susan had driven to Fallon, Nevada to rescue 4 horses from a feedlot. These horses were saved from slaughter. 2 of them were pregnant and born shortly after arriving at Dreamchaser. One of them was Eclipse, who
represented to me a beautiful testament of what a difference one person can make to an animal.
Susan was amazing… she worked harder than anyone I’ve ever seen. Her love and devotion to her heartfelt cause is amazing.
She relocated to Missouri- hauling all animals to greener pastures and trees! Everything is for these animals!

barbaraben60 Volunteer

Rating: 5

12/06/2021

I worked with Susan when she was in Arizona. What a gifted and kind caring human being. Susan has a gift that I have only experienced 3 times in my 60 years working with horses. I have seen Susan take horses that were afraid to even eat due to human contact and turn them around into the most loveable horse. This is the one rescue that I would donate to because Susan is truly gifted. Love you Susan and Good luck with your home for the horses now they can run and play in grass GREAT GOB LOVE AND MISS YOU.

Sincerely,
Barbara Tully

69

Rex-Q Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

After seeing a bad and somewhat deceptive review of Dreamchaser I feel the need to respond. After the Susan and her husband ( Dreamchaser founders & director) were each in serious accidents, out of physical necessity, Dreamchaser now focuses on the continuing commitment of offering the finest care available for the lifetimes of those animals that are part of the sanctuary. It is no longer practical for them to actively rescue more horses and still be able to properly care for the horses and donkeys that are permanent sanctuary residents. As a former foster home from when this facility was still in Arizona, I can personally attest to the high level of dedication that these people have to providing these animals a lifetime of happiness & quality care while still continuing their mission of education about the cruelties that happen as a result of the Premarin industry. Many times over, I have witnessed Susan and mike doing without things that they personally need in order to pay for the care of these horses out of their own pockets when enough donations were not available. Additionally, Susan and Mike will always remain active behind the scenes of rescue. I applaud their recognition of the fact that taking in additional animals at this time would adversely affect the quality of life of the animals that Dreamchaser has already committed to. These animals have a long lifespan, especially when they receive this type of outstanding care. Horses are expensive animals to maintain and maintaining the premises where they live is every bit as important as basic feed and veterinary care. Dreamchaser needs and will continue to need donations for many years to come. This organization is very well run. These animals have the best of care and rest assured that the people who run this place are not living extravagantly off of your donations. This organization is not large or high profile but the work that they do is top notch & very deserving of consideration for donations.
Frizz Allen

Previous Stories
34

Volunteer

Rating: 5

03/20/2012

I am unable to financially commit to a horse at this time in my life but I wanted to be around horses & help them out. I found Dreamchaser & visited their ranch. What I found there was a lovely facility where all of the animals are happy & get the best of care from a small dedicated group of people on a shoestring budget. I am so very proud to be able to say that I was able to help these fine people in a very small way with some of the animals in their care. Susan & Mike are so very dedicated and always prioritize the needs of the horses over their own personal needs. If you have any extra time, please volunteer to help. If you have any extra money, this is a very worthy cause to donate to and your money will always be well spent, directly on the animals, not a bunch of professional fundraisers and overpaid administrators. Dreamchaser is a truly worthy cause!

36

Lee_12 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/17/2013

Dreamchaser of course is an an animal rescue facility but what many do not realize is that many, many hours are also dedicated to Community Service. Children from homeless shelters and foster homes are brought to the ranch to help them forget their troubles for a while and this facility does just that. I have had the privilege to volunteer during some of these visits and have seen the difference in the kids when they arrive and when they leave. Some arrive silent and shut down, mistrustful and afraid. With patience and loving kindness, these children are brought out of their shell and learn what it is to be kids- to play, to care and to be both brave and kind. The animals arrive much the same way and are gentled through love, good food, spotless living conditions and patience. They then regain their dignity and become invaluable partners in helping the community's children. A society is measured by how it treats it's most helpless, by how they treat their children and animals. Dreamchaser exemplifies the best society has to offer and is a testament to love.

Previous Stories
22

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/29/2012

I first became aware of Dreamchaser thru an article in our local paper, featuring the "Lean On Me" Program. Dreamchaser rescues and rehabilitates horses that have been abandoned, abused, used in the drug industry or just plain neglected. The animals arrive wild, scared and hurt, many cannot even be touched. With patience, good food, a clean place to live and lots of love, these horses becaome loving, healthy creatures and end up giving back to their community. Dreamchaser brings children from various county programs out to he ranch to learn from the horses. It is a beautiful thing to watch a previously abused horse teach a child to trust again. They are so patient & kind, some will just stand and be quiet if a child is frightened or sad. They let the child make the first move and I have even seen children fingerpaint on these beautiful creatures! The children learn to that it is possible to grow again, that there is someone that loves you and that you are respected and loved simply by virtue of your being. Bravo to Susan Thompson and the Dreamchaser family! From petting zoo events and pony rides at various community functions to the regular day at the childrens library, this organization certainly gives more than they get. Not only are the horses rescued but also other farm animals, pigs, goats, chickens, ducks, peacocks, all rescues from horrible situations amd all are equally loved and cherished at the ranch. Please give what you can to this wonderful organization, every little bit helps. Or stop by the ranch and see for yourselves, the public is always welcome and you will make so many new friends, both 2 and 4 legged!

16

Melissa139 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/14/2013

This is the best organization out there. Susan works harder than anyone I know to take care of those who can't help themselves, whether it be a horse, a goat, or a chicken. Animals aren't the only ones rescued here, children from library groups to foster care absolutely love coming to the ranch to see and learn about the different animals and even get to learn how to ride a horse!

18

Carla8 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/14/2013

Dreamchaser & Susan are the best thing that has ever happened to these abandon & mistreated animals. Not only does Susan rescue horses, she also saves burros, pigs, dogs, ducks, chickens, and just about anything with 4 legs. Dreamchaser has a summer camp for kids to learn about horses, does petting zoos & birthday parties. I have seen the results of these rescued animals as they go from being skinny with all kinds of health issues as well as being scared of people to healthy trusting animals.

Previous Stories
13

Donor

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

These people are amazing, very hardworking & loving to these poor mistreated animals. They rescue not only horses, but donkeys, burros, dogs, pigs, ducks, geese, chickens & much more. They provide medical care for all the animals & nurse them back to a healthy life. They also work with children running a camp in the summer & having a "Lean of Me" program.

18

ringachord Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

I wish everybody could visit Dreamchaser Ranch and see the love and care and hard work they give to these beautiful, innocent animals. I wish I could get out more often. Susan (the animal whisperer) and all her volunteers work tirelessly to make sure these animals get their proper feeding and vet care. The stables and grounds are always spotless. The animals are happy for the first times in their lives. It brings tears to my eyes every time I visit. They do so much and expect nothing but to see these animals survive and get good homes.

14

Brandy long Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

I wish there were more Susan Thompsons in this world. She is the most caring, hard working, loving person I know. She would do anything for her animals, her passion for their well-being is absolutely phenomenal. She is so appreciative of her volunteers and knows them all by name. She tirelessly takes such good care of every animal on the ranch, from the ducks to the horses. She thanks me for volunteering and I in turn thank HER.

15

CactusClaire Donor

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

Dreamchaser Horse Rescue is an outstanding nonprofit group. The individuals who volunteer give more than time or money. They give their best at all times to the animals, each other, and those who want to join the ranks of their volunteer family. While I contribute to several nonprofits... This is my all-time #1 favorite.

11

Natalie41 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

This is an amazing non profit organization that dedicates everything to helping all animals and finding their forever homes.

13

Lindsay17 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

I found out about this organization through a Groupon I saw &felt compelled to give more than just money. I learned a lot about PMU & everything that goes into taking care of horses. Volunteering at Dreamchaser had a life changing effect on me & I look forward to volunteering at the ranch again soon!

9

Sandy54 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

Dreamchaser Horse Rescue and Rehabilitation organization exemplifies “outstanding" rescue work dedicated to rescuing horses and animals. The dedication, love, care and medical attention given goes above and beyond any level of service. Committed volunteers that work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate all breeds of horses, ponies, donkeys and animals that have been forgotten, abused or can no longer be cared for by their owners is exemplary. A true dedication for placement into new loving and permanent homes is evident. Dreamchaser is a professional, exceptionally well-run and an effective rescue to the cause.

I encourage people to donate their time and funds, to help with the endless effort to care for those animals that have been physically or psychologically traumatized. To educate the public about the importance of this noble cause.

Dreamchaser Horse Rescue and Rehabilitation is Heaven on Earth for these once abandoned souls.

8

GlenAZ Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

There are so many good things to say about this organization I hardly know where to begin.

I started volunteering at Dreamchaser in the summer of 2010. I was immediately impressed at the amount of love and attention Susan and all the other volunteers had for each and every one of animals there. There were a lot of horses there at the time, not to mention the lamas, chickens, pot bellied pigs, birds, dogs, and even a Sonoran Tortuous! Just a handful of those animals would keep most rescues busy!

The days were long, and the work hard but I did not mind at all. It was literally a labor of love in the truest sense of the word. During my time there I personally witnessed animals that arrived in desperate physical condition and broken in spirit only to see them in the weeks and months ahead become healthy, confident, and happy. When finances were tight, I also witnessed owners giving up many personal conveniences we all take for granted just to keep food & medicine available for the animals.

Dreamchaser also takes an active role in exposing our youth to the care, feeding, and humane treatment of animals. For many children from urban areas, this is their first time experience with animals other than domestic dogs and cats.

I can only give the highest marks to Dreamchaser for their outstanding commitment to the animals in their care and for taking an active role in the educating the public on the proper and humane treatment of those animals lucky enough to find a home in their organization.

6

Terri Keegan P. Donor

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

We first got involved with Dreamchaser when I saw a picture of a small horse that was rescued by Dreamchaser. We went up to visit to check out the place and saw the wonderful work that Susan and her volunteers do. She sat with that little guy day and night nursing him and loving him. We got to meet all the other horses, goats, llamas, etc that they rescued and fell in love with the place. I wish they were closer, I would be up there more to help. Susan has such a love in her heart for animals of all kinds. She even has turtles. The work is hard and I don't know how she does it, feeding over 40 horses and all the other animals. I believe the horses get fed three times a day. I watched two horses that she rescued, Journey and Promise, go from being so neglected to looking beautiful and healthy. They also offer summer camp for children and a program for foster children to teach them how to care for the animals so she also reaches out to the children. Such a fun and wonderful place to visit. I encourage others to get involved, you won't be sorry.

6

merhornh Donor

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

I feel that Dreamchaser gives 100% plus to neglected and abused animals. I wish I was rich so that I could donate alot more than I do.
Some of the stories are heartbreaking but it feels good to know that Susan is their to help these animals.
Susan has earned her wings in heaven. Animals that have never known a kind hand will heal under her love and dedication.
Thank you for renewing my faith in people.
Jan

5

Susanne5 Donor

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

My Daughter volunteered and so I drove her out there and sometimes picked her up. It is amazing, what people can do with love for these abused and neglected animals. I only wish the road would be better to the Ranch.

6

Jean31 Donor

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

Visited this ranch of help and healing for the first time last Oct. (fall fest) It is a great place to take the whole family. Saw first hand the wonderful work they are doing for these beautiful animals. Hope they have another fall fest. so we can go, and invite more people out.

6

bruceandkathy Client Served

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

My family adopted two horses from Dreamchaser in 2010. These horses were very special, as they came from a herd of 27 horses that was destined to be slaughtered. These two very young horses were terrified of humans when they first came to Dreamchaser. Through very diligent and patient training, Susan Thompson was able to gentle the horses to the point where they are loving and respectful to their human family. We have maintained a strong bond with Dreamchaser ever since we adopted our two horses. There is no other rescue organization in Arizona that takes in all animals discarded by human beings and gives them a loving environment to enjoy their precious lives.

12

Brendan Reilly Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

I have been with the ranch for quite a while now. I love working there because of all the love and good spirits that surround the place. I am inspired each day I go by Susan the ranch owner. She alone can and has worked the entire ranch, from early morning, to lunch, to late at night! I have put myself into over drive mode and mucked every horse stall and corral as well as take care of all other animals and let me tell you, doing that 3 times a day would kill a person! The amount of love and effort Susan alone puts into the ranch is amazing! Those who come to volunteer can see the family like friendly aura about the place and how much everyone there loves the animals they work with! As for the animals? How many are there? ITS A ZOO! They got pigs, chickens, ducks, horse's, dogs, cats, and goats for your normal animals. Not so normal are the Llama's, the Peacocks and Peahens, the turtles, bunnies, and rescued exotic birds. Did I mention most every animal is a rescue of some sort? Susan takes in the beaten and the damned only to raise them back up, provide the most amount of love, and then...if possible, send that animal to another loving home that can take care of it for a long time to come. I have seen horses, ducks, and much more come into the ranch beaten and broken, and then over time recover oh so well! It truly is a rehabilitation rescue of pure love! When you know your boss is working beside you, can witness where any money goes (straight to the animals), can and has done all the work you do by herself, never complains, and does it almost each day of her life, well if that's not enough to convince you to work than I don't wanna know you! My name is Brendan and I think Susan deserves all the help in the world to keep her rescue open. Its a life changing place that offers a second chance for animals that would be dead without her. They are not mean, it was humans that were mean to them, and its humans there that make up for those wrongs done to those animals. It is we that love them back into living happy lives surrounded by a place to call home. Let the rescue be known throughout AZ and the world!

7

Pam_45 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

Susan Thompson and her rescue is the most amazing place one could visit. Susan allows students from veterinary technology classes to come out and use all her animals so that these students can gain experience with all large animals. Susan gives these rescued animal her heart and soul. She never gets a day of, nor does she ever really want one. Susan allows children of every age to come out and experience life with the adoring animals. Special needs children are welcome too! Susan takes her petting zoo out to special events so that people can experience life with animals. Susan tries to find homes for all her rescues, but is also very aware that some of these animals may never be able to be adopted and she gives these animal forever homes. Susan is amazing and she is a voice for animals and the world of animals is lucky to have someone like her in their corner.

6

Sasparilla S. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

This organization not only rescues animals, it provides so much more by assisting all ages to reconnect through animal encounters, training, educating, and comforting. Many do not appreciate the incredible financial expenditures of an operation like this, nor do they realize the "back-breaking" hours of work required to keep a safe, clean and nourishing large animal rescue in operation. Susan Thompson works tirelessly and the animals pass on all the love and caring they have been shown.

3

Nadia H. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

My family and I volunteer here every chance we get. Not only do we get to help out this amazing charity, but we get to teach the kids (3 nephews and a godson) about why it is important to take care of animals and use our time to help others. What's great is they have options for young kids to help like cleaning the goat pen or brushing the mini horses! I even had my birthday party here so the kids got to play with the animals and go on a horseback ride and I knew the money we spent went to helping those same animals as opposed to spending it on video games at a pizza place. I asked my family instead of presents to donate instead. My only complaint is that there is only one Dreamchaser's and the world would benefit from having more places like this! My family and I are already planning another volunteer day here.

5

Dama D. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

We volunteered last summer while we lived in AZ. My now 11 year old daughter, Lauren, absolutely loved Dreamchaser because she loves horses so much. Myself and my husband also volunteered. Going there was like therapy. Knowing we were helping animals who were so mistreated was a blessing. Susan works so hard to keep this operation alive, God bless her. I wished we didn't have to move so we could still help. My heart breaks cause we want to volunteer still. They do calendar sales and other fund-raisers. We miss y'all! I miss those crazy goats and the chicken that likes to be held.

3

Launi General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

Dreamchaser is an amazing place that provides loving homes for animals (mostly PMU Mares but many others as well), that would otherwise be sent for slaughter.

The animals learn to trust people thanks to Susan's hard work and amazing care, and in turn (when ready) the horses are adopted by their forever families. Those who are unable to be adoped are provided a loving forever homes at the ranch.

I can't begin to explain how much joy I get from hanging out with these deserving animals.

3

Sharon46 Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/13/2013

Last year I wrote a review and feel even more convinced after volunteering another year that Dreamchaser is full of angels who love and care deeply about these animals. Susan Thompson being the prime example for all the volunteers. I reaffirm my review from last year-------
Review from 2012: Dreamchaser Rescue Ranch changed my life. I retired after years of hard work and looked forward to some R & R. I wanted to balance that with a little volunteer time. Dreamchaser was my choice for one day a week, but when I walked through that gate and was greeted by Susan and Laura . . . . then I saw all the animals in various stages of healing and I knew I'd found my home away from home. As I learned where I could be helpful and also learned the animal's names and backgrounds, I realized how fortunate I was that some divine guidance led me to Dreamchaser. Love abounds on this ranch and appreciation is frequently expressed for the contributions of the volunteers. Instead of thanking me, I want to thank Dreamchaser for giving me purpose each day I'm able to be there to lend a helping hand and allowing me to hug and love on these animals as they recover from whatever inhumane experience has come their way. THANK YOU, Dreamchaser.

Previous Stories
5

Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/29/2012

Dreamchaser Rescue Ranch changed my life. I retired after years of hard work and looked forward to some R & R. I wanted to balance that with a little volunteer time. Dreamchaser was my choice for one day a week, but when I walked through that gate and was greeted by Susan and Laura . . . . then saw all the animals in various stages of healing, I knew I'd found my home away from home. As I learned where I could be helpful and also learned the animal's names and backgrounds, I realized how fortunate I was that some divine guidance led me to Dreamchaser. Love abounds on this ranch and appreciation is frequently expressed for the contributions of the volunteers. Instead of thanking me, I want to thank Dreamchaser for giving me purpose each day I'm able to be there to lend a helping hand and allowing me to hug and talk to these animals as they recover from whatever inhumane experience has come their way. THANK YOU, Dreamchaser.

3

Bobbie M. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/01/2012

These folks put their heart and soul into what they are doing. My Sis and I went out every day that we could back in 2006-07, my car died can couldn't get there any more.Susan and all the volunteers have MORE LOVE IN THEIR LITTLE FINGER then some do in their whole body. I pray that she can get the help that will help all the animals, she is trying to save and find for ever homes for. Right at this time she is fighting to save a LITTLE-MINI-HORSE, who was horrible abused, all the folks on face-book are following her story, and we are all PRAYING THAT THE GOOD LORD will save this little girl.... SO again, I ask if you folks can help please do so . bobbiemorin@aol.com GOD BLESS YOU.

4

nalla General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/29/2012

This organization provides outstanding services to unwanted, neglected and abused animals. They go above and beyond their duties to ensure great care for all of them. It is a costly mission that most of us today cannot afford. Finding this organization has been dear to my heart and i have donated and followed them on facebook ever since. They are people making a difference and have inspired me to want to do the same. Please keep working and fighting for this cause as the Lords work is never done.

3

Dandiesmom Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/29/2012

I have been a volunteer @ Dreamchaser for over 4 years. I've seen miracles happen there and have seen great sadness when we lose a horse that we've tried so hard to save. I've seen Susan Thompson (the founder of Dreamchaser) go without food & other necessities for herself in order to feed & care for these horses. Susan & all of the volunteers have an abundance of compassion and we love each & every one of the horses.

4

Rosemary C. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

Dreamchaser steps in to assist those beautiful but neglected horses. They provide full care from love to medical attention. It is a wonderful gift to these suffering animals to receive a second chance at life.

4

Terri Jean Donor

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

We have been seeking a place to make donations where we know it will be well used. Susan keeps everyone updated on the animals and makes sure that everyone is thanked. I don't know how she does it with all the work she does from dawn to dusk. God bless her and all the volunteers for what they do.

3

Rebecca32 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

Susan and her helpers always give their all for the animals on the farm. Susan will go without rather that scrimp on the care, time and love for her critters. The calmer and more people friendly animals are used to bring awareness to animal abuse at libraries, schools, any event Susan can get them to.

Previous Stories
4

Volunteer

Rating: 5

03/20/2012

Heard about Dreamchaser from a friend and decided to look into volunteering. Once I met Susan, I knew that her heart was all about the animals. The place is clean, well as clean as a place full of animals can be : -)...animals are well fed and well loved. Volunteered at a birthday party not long ago and the kids and adults loved it. Dreamchasers is a great place for people and animals to recharge and heal.

3

Christye A. Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

What an amazing place to go and serve, its so humbling to be around all the animals and I learned so so much over the summer as well as my son who is 15. Susan is an amazing person and loces children, all animals and people. She is a bit rough around the edges, But she really was great for my son who is ADHD and really needed to get out of the house for the summer and experience what volunteering is all about. We would go there every day if we could. There is a young man Named James that also volunteers at the ranch and he was a big part of our summmer and really showed us the ropes and kept my son on his toes. I am so glad that I have decided to use Bioidentical hormone therapy. Susan you are a true gift from the lord. Keep up the amazing work.

5

Barb B. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

We have attended fund raisers at the rescue. They are doing a wonderful job for a very important group of horses needing help as well as helping to educate the public about the horrors of the PMU industry. What a dedicated group of volunteers! God Bless them!

4

Nicole A. Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2012

This place overall is great to be around not only for the animals but for you and your family as well. I've worked with Susan and been apart of the volunteer family for a little over a year and a half and have nothing but good things to say and many, many memorable experiences.

5

Terrbarb Donor

Rating: 5

03/21/2012

As a donor and animal lover I found Susan a few years ago when I first got my PMU colt from Canada and needed information from her. Susan has helped me out when needed. I can always count on her for taking in unwanted animals. She is a total animal Angel in our book. thank you Susan for all the hard work you do in rescuing these poor babies.

9

Bruce C. General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

06/01/2011

Wakina was born into a herd of 27 wild horses that wandered freely on the Texas range, living off of the land. Only two of the horses, the stallion and mare that started the herd, knew the kindness and love of the human heart. To the others, humans were a threatening predator. The herd’s owner had watched it grow, but lost interest in the welfare of the magnificent horses. With no remorse, he made the decision to sell the herd for slaughter. Word quickly spread among rescue groups in three states of his decision. Pooling their resources and the donations of countless others, these groups were able to save the herd from slaughter and find homes for all of the horses. Four young horses, three fillies and a colt, were placed with Dreamchaser Horse Rescue and Rehabilitation. Wakina was one of the fillies. The stallion of the herd also stayed at Dreamchaser. When Dreamchaser’s founder Susan Thompson and her daughter Jamie first entered the pen holding the five rescued horses, the stallion was the only horse that immediately accepted the human presence. He freely approached them and placed his head lovingly on Jamie’s chest. The other four horses ran away in total fear whenever humans entered their turnout. The challenge for Susan and her staff of Dreamchaser volunteers was to provide security, bonding, and human leadership to the four young horses. Their goal was to guide each horse toward full acceptance and trust of the human environment and then to place them with caring people who would continue to nourish the horses through endless love. But they knew that gentling totally unpredictable wild horses was dangerous. From the beginning, Wakina was more accepting of human presence and touch. After eighteen months of gentling and learning that humans would not hurt her, Wakina’s fear of humans was replaced by trust, and her instinct for the herd’s security was replaced by acceptance of human association. After several more months of training, Wakina was ready to find her forever home. On Father’s Day in 2010, our family visited Dreamchaser with the hope of adopting a horse. Susan greeted us when we arrived and took us on a tour of the ranch. One by one, she showed us many of the sixty rescued horses in her care. But Susan’s heart told her that our family would be a perfect match for one special horse that we had not yet seen. Susan turned to her partner and asked him to bring in Wakina. When he did, everyone knew that it would be a perfect match. Wakina approached our family and lovingly placed her head on my wife’s chest, just as the herd’s stallion had done 2½ years earlier when the frightened and lost horses had first arrived at Dreamchaser. Tears flowed freely as we realized that after all that Wakina had been through, she reached out and chose us to be her forever family. We adopted Wakina that day.

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