Rocky the Shetland Pony's story begins over three decades ago on Lopez Island, where he was part of a group of ponies rescued by the Humane Society. After a brief journey through different homes, he found what seemed to be his forever family - an elderly couple who would care for him for the next 30 years. When his companion, a miniature donkey, passed away 4-5 years ago, Rocky remained as their only equine, patiently enduring increasingly difficult circumstances as his aging owners' health declined and with it, their ability to provide Rocky with the care he needs.
At approximately 35 years old, Rocky the Shetland Pony came to Skagit Animals in Need just before Christmas 2024. Despite being severely underweight and covered in matted mud and manure, his spirit remained unbroken! This plucky little Shetland pony hasn't lost his zest for life: with improved conditions, he is greeting his foster mom with adorable whinnies and even showing exemplary behavior during veterinary and farrier visits.
Personality:
This Shetland Pony is proving to be an absolute delight! Rocky is incredibly sweet and easy to handle, showing remarkable patience during medical procedures (though the dental float did require a bit extra sedation - who can blame him?). After years of solitude following his donkey friend's passing, Rocky is thoroughly enjoying meeting new horse friends and settling into life at his foster home.
Medical Update:
Special Needs:
Rocky requires specialized care including:
How You Can Help:
Rocky's medical care, special diet, and ongoing treatment represent a significant commitment. Your donation to Skagit Animals in Need helps provide this sweet senior with the dignified retirement he deserves. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps ensure Rocky's golden years are filled with comfort, proper care, and plenty of loving attention.
Follow Rocky's journey on our social media for regular updates on his progress and adventures!
“What are you?” Peter Lake asked quietly. The horse then turned to look at him, and, he saw, with a chill, that the eyes were infinitely deep, opening like a tunnel to another universe. The horse’s silence suggested that the beauty of his gentle black eyes had something of all that ever was or would ever be. And like every horse, he was incorruptibly innocent. (Winter’s Tale, Mark Helprin)
Here in Skagit County, where Skagit Animals in Need (SAIN) offers new beginnings for rescue horses, Kaya Mead stands as a beacon of hope and expertise. As a trainer for SAIN, she brings expertise, empathy, and a deep-seated passion for horsemanship to our little corner of equine rescue. In a recent interview, Kaya shared insights into her journey, philosophy, and the transformative power of understanding horses.
Roots in Riding
Kaya's equestrian journey began in her childhood in Michigan, where she showed Arabians in local competitions. "I've been very fortunate to have been given horses to ride my whole life," she reflects. "I've never owned my own, but I've been really lucky to meet the right people who want to help me and facilitate my learning." After a hiatus during college, Kaya rekindled her passion when she moved to Washington state. Kaya started volunteering for Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE – a large equine rescue in Redmond that SAIN collaborates with), where she was inspired to become a trainer.
The Horsemanship Epiphany
When asked about the most unexpected thing she's learned from a horse, Kaya's eyes light up. "What hooked me on horsemanship is basically how much they can feel of you and how present they are," she explains. She recounts a pivotal moment in a round pen when she was riding and merely thought about trotting. To her surprise, the horse started to trot. "Since then, I've learned so much more about how sensitive and how soft and how present they can be. That's my favorite thing about them."
Kaya's approach is rooted in the Dorrance school of natural horsemanship, a philosophy that emphasizes gentle, intuitive communication with horses. Tom & Bill Dorrance revolutionized horse training by focusing on the horse's perspective and natural instincts. This method, carried forward by disciples like Ray Hunt and Buck Brannaman, aims to create a harmonious partnership between horse and human.
One such disciple who has had a significant influence on Kaya is Joel Conner. "Joel Connor is who I've learned from," Kaya mentions. Conner, known for his dedication to the Dorrance-Hunt-Brannaman lineage of horsemanship, has been instrumental in spreading these gentle, effective training methods, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.
Breaking Misconceptions
Kaya is passionate about dispelling common misconceptions about horses. "A big one is that people think they misbehave," she states firmly. "Horses don't have that piece, that kind of emotion to misbehave. Anytime you see something as misbehavior in a horse, it's they either don't understand, they feel stuck, they feel trapped, or they don't know how to be comfortable in that situation."
She emphasizes that horses fundamentally seek peace above all else. "They want to get along with you," Kaya explains. "Only humans misbehave."
The Changing Role of Horses
Reflecting on the evolving role of horses in human society, Kaya expresses both concern and hope. "There's not that many working horses anymore, and we have a lot of horses," she observes. "There's just way more horses than we have real use for, honestly." Like so many other animals, it’s in their make up to do something.
Kaya stresses the importance of good horsemanship in teaching horses how to safely exist in our human world. "If you don't teach your horse how to safely exist in our human world that we've created, you are doing a huge disservice to that animal," she asserts.
Challenges and Growth
We asked Kaya about whether what she’s learned as a horse trainer has taught her anything that carries over into her interactions with humans. Kaya's journey hasn't been without its hurdles. She candidly shares about a riding accident that left her with PTSD. "Working through that lack of confidence has really benefited me in a lot of areas," she reflects. This experience has not only made her a better trainer but has also enhanced her empathy for both horses and riders facing challenges.
Looking Forward
In Kaya's world, every interaction with a horse is an opportunity for mutual understanding and growth. Her approach to training rescue horses is not just about preparing them for adoption; it's about honoring their nature, addressing their needs, and helping them find peace in the human world they now inhabit.
As our interview concludes, it's clear that for Kaya, horsemanship is more than a skill – it's a way of life, a philosophy that extends far beyond the round pen, touching every aspect of her interactions with both horses and humans alike.
Meet Daphne: A Resilient Spirit Seeking Her Forever Home
Daphne isn't just another rescue horse – she's a testament to what love and proper care can accomplish. This beautiful 24-year-old dark bay Arab-Quarter horse cross stands at approximately 15 hands and carries herself with a quiet dignity that belies her difficult past.
When Daphne first arrived at Skagit Animals in Need, her ribs were showing through her dull coat – a heartbreaking body condition score of just 2 out of 9. Like many of our rescues, her hooves were painfully neglected. But don't let that fool you about who she truly is.
What makes Daphne special is her remarkable spirit. Despite everything she's endured, she loaded into our trailer with the confidence of a show horse, revealing her previous training and gentle nature. Every day, we watch her coat grow shinier and her eyes brighter as proper nutrition and care work their magic.
Daphne recently underwent dental surgery (February 2025), including a tooth extraction that will significantly improve her comfort and ability to maintain a healthy weight. It's just one more step in her journey back to the majestic horse she was always meant to be.
She shares a special bond with fellow rescue Shaggy – these two have clearly been partners through thick and thin. Their connection is beautiful to witness, and they find comfort in each other's presence during this transition period.
Daphne isn't just surviving – she's thriving. Each day brings new strength to her stride and new trust in her eyes. She's ready for someone to see past her rescue status to the incredible companion she can be.
Are you the person who will give Daphne her second chance? She's not asking for much – just consistent care, gentle handling, and the dignity every horse deserves. In return, she offers the incomparable gift of a rescued horse's gratitude and partnership.
Meet Shaggy: A Noble Spirit Ready for His Next Chapter
There's something special about the way Shaggy carries himself – a quiet dignity that speaks volumes about who he truly is beneath the story of neglect that brought him to us. This handsome 22-year-old dark bay Quarter horse cross gelding has the distinctive presence of his Quarter horse lineage, with hints of Andalusian grace in his movement and bearing.
When Shaggy first arrived at Skagit Animals in Need, his condition told the all-too-familiar tale of neglect – a body condition score of just 2 out of 9, with overgrown hooves and a dull coat that hid his true beauty. But even then, in those first moments stepping cautiously from the trailer, we saw the well-trained, gentle soul beneath.
Today, the transformation is remarkable. With proper nutrition, veterinary care, and daily kindness, Shaggy is rediscovering what it means to feel good in his own skin. Standing approximately 15 hands tall, he's regaining the muscle and vitality that make him the magnificent horse he was always meant to be.
What truly touches our hearts is Shaggy's deep bond with fellow rescue Daphne. These two have clearly weathered life's storms together, finding comfort and strength in each other's company. It's a friendship that speaks to the emotional depth these intelligent animals possess.
Here's the exciting news – Shaggy has been working with trainer to refresh his riding skills, and he's shown remarkable progress! He remembers his training well, proving that quality horsemanship stays with these animals even through difficult times. He's responsive, willing, and ready to build a partnership with a rider who appreciates his journey.
Shaggy isn't just another rescue horse – he's a testament to resilience, a symbol of what's possible when we choose compassion over indifference. His gentle eyes hold no bitterness for the past, only hope for tomorrow.
Could you be the person Shaggy has been waiting for? He doesn't need perfection – just someone who sees his worth and commits to continuing the healing journey we've begun. In return, you'll gain a partner whose gratitude will manifest in every nicker of recognition when you enter the barn, every gentle nudge as you groom him, every willing step under saddle.
October 2024: Manny (along with his pal Diego) has been adopted!
Isn't this just the picture of happiness?!! It's true! And it shows on everyone's faces. Diego and Manny were once neglected and lonely -- emaciated and infested. But during their time with us, each day, they grew healthier and happier, their trust in humans restored. And now they've found their forever home -- TOGETHER! -- with Connie and Jeff. Seeing them thriving is truly heartwarming. This isn't just an adoption...it's the story of lives reborn.
Manny is a 28-year-old Quarterhorse-type gelding who came to us (along with his pal, Diego) through a law enforcement seizure. Manny was emaciated at 1 of 9 on the body condition scale, infested with lice and hadn't seen a farrier in quite some time.
Despite all that, Manny is a very sweet horse and easy to handle. He is steadily gaining weight and doing well, following his foster mom around like a little puppy. We've dealt with his lice infestation, much to his relief! He has also had a pedicure and will soon have a much-needed dental float.
September 2024: Now this sweet and gentle boy is ready to find a home who will give him the love and care he deserves.
October 2024: Diego (along with his pal Manny) has been adopted!
Isn't this just the picture of happiness?!! It's true! And it shows on everyone's faces. Diego and Manny were once neglected and lonely -- emaciated and infested. But during their time with us, each day, they grew healthier and happier, their trust in humans restored. And now they've found their forever home -- TOGETHER! -- with Connie and Jeff. Seeing them thriving is truly heartwarming. This isn't just an adoption...it's the story of lives reborn.
Diego, a 24-year-old gelding, came to us through animal control, along with his pal Manny. Diego was a 3 of 9 on the body condition scale, was badly in need of a farrier appointment, and was infested with lice. Fortunately, he's now putting on weight, has had a proper pedicure and we've dealt with that infestation.
Diego is part Arab, and looks like he could have some draft in him. His feet are large for his size, and he has quite a bit of feathering. He is well-mannered and easy to handle. We think he has had a fair amount of training in the past.
Next up for this sweet boy--a dental float.
October 2024: Diego (along with his pal Manny) has been adopted and is currently with us while his new owners prepare his new digs.
UPDATE 12/12/2024: Maisy's journey has finally led her to her perfect furever home! This sweet girl was first discovered wandering the roads of Skagit County all by lonesome. Although we searched for her original family, no one came forward to claim this precious wanderer.
While Maisy found her first adoptive home, it became clear that something was missing in her life - other woolly friends! Being the social butterfly she is, she thrives on both human attention AND sheep companionship. She came back to us in search of the best of both worlds.
Initially thought to be a Babydoll sheep, Bo-Peep just kept growing! Though her exact breed remains a mystery, one thing's for certain - her personality is as big as her heart. She's never met a human or sheep she didn't want to befriend!
We're overjoyed to announce that Maisy has found her true forever home with Laura and Owen (on the left in the people picture, along with Ellen of New Moon Farm Sanctuary who was a huge support fostering this cutie), where she has not just one or two, but NINE new sheep friends to socialize with! Her days of feeling lonely are officially over as she settles into her new flock, getting all the human love and sheep companionship she could ever want.
Here's to Maisy and her wonderful new family! May her days be filled with green pastures, friendly bleats, and lots of love! 🐑💕
UPDATE 11/4/2024: Bo-Peep (aka Maisy) is back here with us at SAIN. It turns out she was pretty lonely at her new home without any other sheep friends. She's super social and loves human companionship, but also needs some ovine companionship.
It was originally thought she was a Babydoll sheep. But she's grown so much -- it's clear she's not a Babydoll. We don't know her breed, but we do know she's as sweet and cute as can be.
UPDATE: Bo-Peep has been adopted as of 5/10/2024.
Meet Bo-Peep, the little lost Babydoll sheep. She was found wandering out in the county and we believe she is a Babydoll breed. She is between 40-50 pounds and is sweet as can be. She loves people, especially children, and is friendly toward other animals including dogs.
We need to have her assessed by a veterinarian to see if there's anything we need to address before making her adoptable. We'll keep everyone posted!
Ozzy: From Forgotten Champion to Beloved Companion
Some stories just grab your heart and don't let go. Ozzy's is one of those.
When this 22-year-old Standardbred bay gelding first came through our doors from Snohomish County Animal Control, he was barely standing. With a body condition score of just 1.5 – a clinical way of saying he was fighting for his life – Ozzy's spirit seemed as depleted as his body. He couldn't even muster the strength for a proper whinny.
But here's the thing about champions – they never forget how to fight.
Day by day, meal by careful meal, Ozzy began his comeback story. His foster home reports he's taken to his re-feeding program with the same determination that once powered him around the racetrack. Yes, you read that right – this gentle soul who arrived at death's door was once a celebrated racehorse named Red Star Dusty, thundering around Fraser Downs in British Columbia and crossing finish lines in victory.
Today, Ozzy stands before us transformed. He is at a healthy weight, his eyes sparkle with renewed interest in the world around him, and his once-silent voice has returned as a strong, beautiful whinny that seems to announce: "I'm still here. I still matter."
His remarkable progress speaks to the resilience that lives in these magnificent animals, even after humans have failed them. There's something profoundly moving about standing beside an animal who has known both the roar of the crowd and the silence of neglect, yet still chooses to trust. Ozzy approaches each day not as a former champion or a rescue case, but simply as a horse ready to connect, to belong, to matter to someone again.
Could you be that someone? In racing, they measure value in finish lines crossed and purses won. Here at Skagit Animals in Need, we measure it differently – in second chances embraced, in trust rebuilt, in lives transformed. By any measure, Ozzy remains what he always was: a winner through and through.
Reach out today to learn more about bringing this remarkable survivor home – and prepare to be changed by a horse who refused to be forgotten.
Finding His Light: Smudge's Journey to a Forever Home
Meet Smudge: A 13-year-old Appaloosa gelding with a spirit brighter than his spotted coat and a heart bigger than the challenges he faces.
When Smudge arrived at Skagit Animals in Need through a law enforcement seizure, we saw beyond his physical condition to the remarkable horse underneath. Today, we're looking for someone special who can see the same—someone who understands that sometimes the most rewarding relationships require us to trust what we feel rather than what we see.
The Journey So Far
Smudge battled uveitis (inflammation in the tissue between the cornea and retina) caused by the bacterial disease leptosporosis which has resulted in permanent vision impairment. Despite our best efforts and multiple specialist consultations, the infection caused tearing and partial detachment of his left retinal tissue that couldn't be fully repaired. His right eye also sustained some damage, though less severe. Following treatment for the leptosporosis, he also developed cataracts in both eyes, further reducing his ability to see clearly.
What does this mean for Smudge? He has significant vision loss in his left eye and some impairment in his right, and the world is now foggy. He occasionally startles when approached from his left side—not out of fear or temperament issues, but simply because he cannot see well from that direction. He also is nervous in new environments.
Because we do not have access to an equine ophthalmologist at this time, we think the best thing we can do for Smudge is to try to find the right forever home for him.
A Special Horse Seeking a Special Person
Here's what makes Smudge extraordinary: despite these challenges, he is sound and healthy, and could still be rideable with the right person. He remains friendly, though he expresses frustration at times. Once he knows his environment, he is able to move with surprising confidence for a horse with vision impairment and shows remarkable adaptability. With patience and consistent handling, he builds the trust that compensates for what his eyes cannot tell him.
We're seeking an adopter who ideally has experience with vision-impaired horses, or at the very least, someone committed to learning and adapting their approach. Smudge needs someone who:
Looking Through Smudge's Eyes
Living with a vision-impaired horse offers unique rewards. The trust Smudge places in his handlers isn't given lightly—it's earned through consistency, patience, and understanding. The bonds deepen as he relies on you to be his eyes in uncertain situations.
Many vision-impaired horses like Smudge develop heightened awareness through their other senses. They often become extremely sensitive to voice commands and physical cues, creating a riding experience that's deeply connected and intuitive.
Are You Smudge's Person?
Sometimes the right match isn't about finding the perfect horse—it's about finding the perfect relationship. Smudge doesn't need someone to "fix" him; he needs someone who embraces him exactly as he is, challenges and all.
If you've worked with vision-impaired horses before, or if something about Smudge's story resonates with you on a deeper level, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can determine if you might be the person Smudge has been waiting for—the one who will guide him into the next chapter of his remarkable journey.
If you want to learn more about meeting Smudge and our adoption process, click here to send us an email.
Note: Smudge will require ongoing veterinary care for his eye condition. Our team is happy to discuss his medical needs in detail with potential adopters.
Hazel's Journey of Trust and Transformation
If horses could write memoirs, Hazel's would break your heart and then stitch it back together again.
This beautiful Morgan cross mare came to us as just a whisper of the horse she was meant to be. At approximately 25 years old, Hazel arrived after being seized by law enforcement, her body telling the stark truth about her past with a body condition score of just 1 out of 9 – the equivalent of surviving, not living.
Think about this for a moment: Hazel had spent her entire life on one property, hadn't known proper veterinary care, hadn't had proper hoof care, and never even experienced being transported in a trailer. The world as most horses know it was completely foreign to her. And yet, beneath her fear was a quiet courage that has left us in awe.
Each small victory with Hazel has felt monumental. The first time she allowed herself to be caught without panicking. The February day when, with some gentle sedation, she experienced her first proper hoof trimming in our care. The morning when she stood still for grooming, perhaps feeling true care for the first time in her life.
Today, this bay roan beauty can be caught, haltered, and led – skills that might seem basic for most horses but represent mountains climbed for Hazel. And perhaps most telling of her progress: she can now be safely transported in a trailer, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for her future.
Hazel has taught us so much about patience, about meeting another being exactly where they are, and about the healing power of consistent kindness. She's shown us that trauma doesn't have to be the end of the story – it can be just the beginning of the most beautiful chapter.
We're now looking for Hazel's forever home as a companion horse. She doesn't need to be ridden or shown – she just needs a person who recognizes that her worth isn't tied to what she can do, but to who she is. Someone who will celebrate each small step forward, who understands that trust once broken takes time to rebuild, and who sees the quiet dignity in this mare who has overcome so much.
Is that person you? Could your pasture be the safe haven where Hazel spends her golden years, finally knowing what it means to be truly valued? If so, reach out to us. Be part of the next chapter in a story that's already touched so many hearts.
Sometimes the horses who need the most healing end up healing us in return. Hazel is ready to show someone exactly what that means.
>>>Link to Adoption Application
Today is a magical day for our beautiful Shakira! This lovely Arabian mare with turns 21 years old AND has officially been adopted into her forever home with lucky Pryscilla & Morgen! After coming to SAIN in June 2023, Shakira has blossomed from a shy mare into a social girl who loves her people. Her transformation has been incredible -- from learning basic handling to mastering trailer loading. With royal bloodlines connected to the legendary Thee Desperado, this former broodmare is starting an exciting new chapter as a cherished companion.
Lovely Shakira is an Arab mare, one of two Arabs who came together to SAIN on June 16, 2023. She and Khalil were both born on their prior owner's property and have lived their entire lives there. We are told she is about 19 and was a broodmare. Neither had seen a vet or farrier on a very long time. As far as we know, she was never started under saddle.
This Arab mare is putting on weight and looking good. Best of all, she's becoming more relaxed and friendly and enjoys attention. We've had a trainer working with both Khalil and Shakira, gettting them reacquainted with picking up their feet in preparation for their first farrier appointment in some time and -- success! -- the appointment went great.
January 2024 Update: Shakira has become quite snuggly since coming into our care, and is currently in training for basic handling and trailer loading.
Once this Arab mare has learned a few more life skills, she will be available for adoption as a companion/pasture pet.
March 2024 Update: Well, she'd done it! Shakira has learned to load and ride in the trailer, so she's ready to find her forever home as a companion horse/pasture pet.
We recently received new information about Shakira’s history, including her registration information. She
is registered as Bahijah, and was foaled on 4/6/04. Her last foal, Buckminster Bey, was born in 2018,
and is currently owned by Sanoma Blakeley, who is the youngest female to with the Tevis Cup (at age
18, in 2019), which is a one-day 100 mile endurance ride through the Sierras. Shakira’s dam was also
Khalil’s granddam, making him her nephew. Shakira’s sire’s sire was Thee Desperado, an influential
Straight Egyptian Arabian sire whose portrait was made into a Breyer model.
September 2024: Shakira is currently in a foster-to-adopt placement!
Khalil: Royal Blood, Ready Heart
Some horses are born with everything except opportunity. That's Khalil's story.
Look at this handsome Arabian gelding and you might just see another rescue horse. But look closer, and you'll discover a horse with royal bloodlines who's been waiting his entire life for someone to notice his worth.
At 18 years old, Khalil carries the legacy of legendary Arabian sires in his veins – with both the famed Bask and Desperado V in his pedigree. Registered as Cygnd Seald Delivered, he was born into a world that should have recognized his potential but instead left him languishing in a filthy stall, untrained and overlooked.
When Khalil arrived at Skagit Animals in Need in June 2023 alongside his aunt Shakira, he was underweight and uncertain about human contact. He had spent 17 years on the same property, largely ignored, with occasional half-hearted attempts at rehoming that went nowhere. Those 22 days of basic training back in 2014 were the closest he ever came to the purposeful horse life his bloodlines suggested he might have.
But here's what we find absolutely beautiful about Khalil – despite everything, his spirit remained unbroken.
In our care, this elegant gelding has discovered what consistent kindness feels like. Day by day, he's learned that humans can be trusted, that the world beyond his stall isn't so frightening after all. The transformation has been remarkable to witness. The once-wary horse now seeks interaction, his expressive eyes revealing a growing curiosity about the world around him.
Khalil has conquered major milestones that might seem small to some but represent mountains climbed for him – standing calmly for the farrier, loading into a trailer without panic, welcoming human touch without suspicion.
He's ready now – ready for the life he always deserved but never had. As a companion horse, Khalil offers the rare combination of exquisite breeding and a heart that truly appreciates kindness. He doesn't need to be a performance horse to be valuable – his worth lies in his journey, his resilience, and his newfound trust.
Is your pasture the place where Khalil finally gets to live as the cherished horse he was born to be? Can you be the person who helps write the second chapter of a life that's only just beginning to unfold?
Reach out to us if you're ready to welcome this royal-blooded gentleman into your heart. Sometimes the greatest privilege isn't finding a perfect horse – it's being part of a beautiful comeback story.
Complete an Adoption Application here.
You can read Freya's story below. This one was devastating to us, but not entirely unexpected. After 3 years of neglect, Freya's hooves had grown into elf shoes. Radiographs showed us that this neglect had completely remodeled her coffin bones. She was in quite a bit of pain and there was no chance we could rehab her feet. Despite the pain she was in, she had such a delightful personality. It's a tragedy that she lost the opportunity for a full life because of the neglect she suffered. We hope you're running pain-free now, Freya.
Freya arrived on June 11, 2023 became an instant fan favorite! She is a tri-colored pinto mare who had very long, overgrown hooves (elf shoes) as a result of receiving no vet or farrier care for at least the three years she was with her previous owner. Her mane and tail were severely matted. We also know that white bread was a key factor in her diet. She just had her first vet appointment and we think she's likely in her late teens to maybe 20. Her cloudy eye is due to an old untreated injury.
Our farrier made significant progress on her feet in her first visit, but we'll be getting x-rays to do a deeper evaluation and help guide on-going foot rehab work. We're also running bloodwork to check for anything else we need to address. We expect she'll put weight on properly with a healthy diet of hay.
Now that Freya is in a safe place being well-cared for an loved on, her personality is really emerging! She's very playful and social and looks for every opportunity to connect with people and horses around her. She's a bit of a snack stealer, too -- don't be eating a chip in her vicinity or she's likely to snag it from you. She was a big hit at our Tack Sale and loved having all the stimulation of the people saying hello.
More to come on Freya as she makes her way through her rehab!
UPDATE 7/10/2023: Freya's Bloodwork was good, but she tested positive for Cushings. She was pretty lame after the big trim we mentioned above, so we put some Soft-Ride boots (similar to Cloud boots) on her, which helped. Our farrier checked her again on July 7 and we took the boots off. She is moving better, though still a little sore when turning. She is eating well, gaining weight, and her personality is coming out now that she feels better; she loves attention and was a real star as one of the featured animals at our Tack Sale. She has an appointment coming up to get her teeth done and radiographs of her feet.
Thumper was adopted on November 19, 2023, along with his pal Blackjack!
They are living with two goats Leo (a SAIN alumnus) and Frank.
Can you imagine what this guy has seen in his long life? Thumper is a spunky senior Arab who came to us as one of a bonded pair. His pal is Blackjack. Thumper and Blackjack found themselves in a situation where circumstances conspired to make it increasingly difficult for their caretaker to provide what they needed.
Thumper is a little on the thin side (3/9 on the body condition scale). He also needs a dental and we are working on getting that scheduled. He was little more difficult for the farrier, but he's getting better with it. He has some rain rot, a pretty good bone spavin on his right hind inside hock and only one baby melanoma under his tail. Like Blackjack, he has been vaccinated and dewormed. Bloodwork and
fecal both came back good.
UPDATE 6/12/2023: Thumper had a much-needed dental that took care of a variety of issues that must have been painful for him. We expect he will be much more comfortable eating and will gain weight more easily now with a soft diet given his well-worn teeth.
UPDATE 8/7/2023: Thumper is at a good weight now that his teeth were fixed. This older gentleman is now ready to find a forever home. He's right about 30 years old but has that Arab spark and beauty and will make a good companion horse despite his age.
Blackjack was adopted on November 19, 2023, along with his pal Thumper!
They are living with two goats Leo (a SAIN alumnus) and Frank.
Do you feel a draft? 😉 Blackjack is a handsome, lovely senior Shire who came to us as one of a bonded pair. His pal is Thumper the Arab. Blackjack and Thumper found themselves in a situation where circumstances conspired to make it increasingly difficult for their caretaker to provide what they needed.
Blackjack's weight is good and he's generally in good condition, likely about 20 years old. He was in need of some good farrier care and he's been really good for his pedicure appointments. He has some sharp points on his teeth and we're working on getting a dental scheduled for him. Like Blackjack, he has been vaccinated and dewormed. Bloodwork and fecal both came back good.
UPDATE 6/12/2023: Turns out Blackjack has heart condition that he's probably had for quite some time, so our vet felt it would be risky to sedate him for a dental. Otherwise, this majestic mister is doing well in foster care...so well that we'll be limiting his access to grass because he has become, to quote the vet, "rather fluffy." 🙂
UPDATE 8/7/2023: This handsome fella is available for adoption as a companion horse. He's truly a gentle giant! Because he went without hoof care for a long time, we're still working on his toe cracks and that's something that his forever home farrier will need to continue to work with.
UPDATE 7/21/2023: Thelma and Louise went to their forever home today! These sweet gal goats have been with us just a short time (you can read their story below), but we sure are fond of them! Louise was in very bad shape when they came to us and had to have a complete mastectomy, but she recovered and they both are happy, healthy and home now. Big thanks to Ellen at New Moon Farm Sanctuary who fostered these lovely ladies for us -- they were in great hands for their recovery. Her goat expertise was key in ensuring Thelma and Louise made it all the way to adoptable.
Thelma and Louise are a sweet bonded pair of Oberhasli goats that were living in a filthy garage, full of broken glass until a kind and caring citizen rescued them. It turned out these goats needed more care than the kind person who took them in could provide -- they clearly hadn't been properly cared for. Louise has a very infected udder which may need to be removed or will cause chronic pain and infection. The infection has also caused her to lose some hair in patches, but it's already begun to heal since we've started treatment. They are receiving excellent foster care from our friends at New Moon Farm for now, but once they are healthy we will need a permanent home for them!
UPDATE: 5/09/2023 Louise wound up having her mastectomy yesterday and she seems to be doing well. It was a pretty extensive surgery, taking 2 hours, and she needed a pint of blood from a donor goat. She was up and walking around today. Once these two lovelies are all well, we'll be looking for a home for them.
UPDATE: 6/12/2023: Thelma is doing really well. Louise is making good progress in her recovery from surgery. These lovely ladies should be all healthy and ready for adoption in a few weeks.
UPDATE 7/8/2023: Louise is all healed up! Both of these great ladies are healthy and ready for adoption! We'd really prefer these two go to a new home together since they are bonded. Louise is the social butterfly (probably due to her having been handled so much for her surgery and post-op care). Thelma is a bit more reserved. But hey, that's why they make chocolate and vanilla.
November 2024: After everything he's been through, Hopper has finally found his forever home - right where he's been all along! 
This is the kind of happiness your support makes possible, so thank you!
This sweet Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse came to us as part of the Graham 27 seizure, one of many neglected horses and a little on the older side. But his foster mom Janiece forged a special connection with this special soul. Day by day, this handsome boy with the natural gaited stride worked his magic... and what started as a temporary shelter became so much more.
Now, Hopper's foster journey has become a "foster fail" of the very best kind. His foster mom couldn't bear to let this special 20-year-old gentleman go, and honestly, who could blame her? Despite his rough past and need for daily Cushings medication, Hopper's loving spirit and friendly nature shine through...not to mention his love of a good trail ride.
Sometimes the perfect match is right in front of you. Congratulations to Hopper and his new forever mom -- here's to many years of happy trails ahead! 
Handsome Hopper came to us from Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE). This Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse gelding was part of the Graham 27 horse Pierce County Animal Control seizure in November of 2022. We have great admiration for SAFE and have been partnering with with them in horse rescue when we have capacity.
Hopper is approximately 20 years old and 14.2 hands. He sure doesn't seem to have let his run of bad-owner-luck get him down. He's quite adorable, sweet, and friendly. Social and inquisitive, he's always interested in making new friends.
His natural second gear is set to gait rather than trot. This easy-going guy has been diagnosed with Cushings, so he needs daily medication combined with a low sugar/starch diet.
September 2024: Hopper is now in a foster to adopt placement!
April 5, 2024: Oh, dear Sparrow. In the last few months, his pain levels with his arthritis were increasing at a rapid pace. Every day was getting more difficult for him and his formerly sunny personality was a victim of his chronic pain. We tried a variety of options to see if we could keep him comfortable, but nothing seemed to make a difference for him. Mercifully, he had a peaceful transition over the rainbow bridge after being spoiled with carrots and love by his wonderful foster home. Fly free, sweet Sparrow. 
Tall, dark, and handsome Sparrow and his pal Hopper recently made the trek to us from Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE). Both geldings were part of the Graham 27 horse Pierce County Animal Control seizure in November of last year. We have great admiration for SAFE and have been partnering with with in horse rescue when we have capacity.
This sweet, well-mannered, and friendly Thoroughbred gelding is a 22 year old former racehorse. He sure doesn't seem to have let his less than ideal prior life cloud his sunny outlook.
June 12, 2023: He has done really well in his foster home, which is especially heartening given the arthritis in his knees/hocks and stifles. We're treating his arthritis with anti-inflammatories and pain meds.
January 2024: Sparrow seems to be dealing with an increase in pain levels, so we're having him evaluated.
After two years of patient rehabilitation and unwavering dedication from his rescue team, Thor, a beautiful Swiss Shepherd with a heartbreaking past, finally found his forever home. His story is a testament to the power of persistence, compassion, and the belief that every dog deserves a chance at happiness – no matter how long the journey may be.
Thor's life began in the shadows of cruelty. He was one of over 100 dogs rescued from a devastating puppy mill situation in Skagit County, where he and another Swiss Shepherd, Frigg, endured some of the worst conditions imaginable. Confined to a windowless outbuilding without proper ventilation, adequate food, or any form of socialization, Thor's early life was marked by severe neglect and isolation.
When Thor first came into rescue care, he was essentially feral – a dog who had never known human kindness. SAIN rescue stepped in following the initial work of the Humane Society of Skagit Valley, providing Thor with everything he needed: a safe foster home, proper nutrition, veterinary care, and most importantly, infinite patience and love.
What makes Thor's story particularly powerful is not just his progress, but the dedication of those who stood by him when others might have given up. His journey reminds us that healing from trauma isn't about quick fixes – it's about slow, steady progress built on a foundation of trust, security, and unconditional love.
Thor's rehabilitation required extraordinary patience. From learning basic trust to mastering simple commands, each small step forward was a victory. While some may have seen a dog too damaged by his past, his rescue team saw a resilient spirit worthy of however long it might take to help him heal.
Today, Thor's story enters its brightest chapter yet. The once-frightened mill dog who couldn't bear human touch is now exploring his new home with growing confidence. While his journey of healing continues, he's now doing it in a place he can truly call his own, with people committed to supporting his continued growth.
Thor's story serves as a powerful reminder: when we refuse to give up on animals who have experienced severe trauma, amazing transformations are possible. It just takes time, dedication, and the understanding that every dog deserves a chance at happiness – no matter how long that journey might be.
Frigg is one of two Swiss Shepherds (along with Thor) who come to our rescue from the recent puppy mill seizure of more than 100 dogs here in Skagit County. Thor and Frigg are males. They are thought to be between 1 and 2 years old. These beautiful dogs were in the worst of that terrible situation of cruelty and neglect, kept essentially in solitary confinement: an outbuilding with no windows, air conditioning or ventilation without proper food and certainly without even meager socialization or love. The woman responsible has been charged with felony animal cruelty in the first degree.
Frigg and Thor have been receiving diligent care and rehabbing slowly, carefully re-entering a better world. But they are scared and it's slow going. So SAIN is stepping in on the heels of the work done by the Humane Society of Skagit Valley. We are providing safe, patient, loving foster homes and all the food and veterinary care these dogs need while they learn to trust humans first, and then move on to the other things dogs need to be good companions, like training. Since they have been getting proper nutrition, they have started to put on weight and were both recently neutered.
Watch the video below...It makes us tear up every dang time. When he first came to rescue, he was essentially feral and wouldn't come near humans at all. To see this much progress, where he will take a treat from the hand of his foster mom while she is in his space...wow. That's remarkable progress. We have a lot of hope for Frigg!
We will support Frigg and Thor for as long as it takes. We anticipate that these dogs will be in rehabilitation for quite some time.
UPDATE: 3/11/2023 -- Frigg is making great strides and his true, happy self is emerging!
Read this update from his foster home.
Learning to Play
Over the last few weeks, Frigg has both taught us a lot about himself and has made great strides of his own in learning how to be a social participant. He has shown us how incredibly social of a dog he is, as well as how graceful and intuitive he is with both our big and little dogs. We started letting our big dog Terra into the kennel with him a few weeks ago because they were about to go crazy if they couldn’t play already! This has gone wonderfully. He wants very badly to know how to interact, not just with her but with us as well. He is still putting the pieces together of how to do that but he observes each moment thoughtfully and is constantly evolving.
Accepting More Human Interaction
Through play time with Terra we realized that he will happily interact with us in a way he hadn’t before. Though he has been eating most of his meals from our hands for several months now, it has seemed functional and robotic like he is just willing to do what he has to do to get fed. He lets us tickle his chin and rub his nose a bit when he eats but only to the end goal of eating his food. We now have realized, though, that the way to his heart is through play. What a happy boy!! When we play with him and Terra he lets us touch him more, he catches snowballs out of the air when we throw them, and he has even started tugging at the rope toy when we offer it to him. His whole demeanor changes. It has been a joy to watch him come out of his shell this way.
Coming Inside
Recently we were able to put up a covered chute from his kennel to the house, which doubles as a play area. It is covered with a net because we were told he has a history of climbing fences, though we haven’t seen him try to do that here. This covered area greatly expands the outdoor space he has access to and allows him to go in and out of the downstairs of our house via a window and custom ramp. The day we first got this up, he got to run for more than four strides in a straight line for the first time in his life. The look on his face made us all cry. He was so happy and eventually, when offered, he came inside after a few nervous tries, had his dinner, and spent the night intermittently crashed out after the biggest play day of his life and peeking in on us cuddled up with his best friend Terra in the downstairs bedroom (we left the door open so he could check things out). He has slept inside the last 6 nights, has already potty pad trained himself, and we believe he is well on his way towards being fully house trained (2 nights accident free now!).
He has also been hanging out with our two little dogs (one of whom is from the same place that he came from). He absolutely loves them and is so gentle and respectful with them. We have been so happy to see that who he expressed himself to be over the last few months is, in fact, his true nature…the gentlest, sweetest, playful big boy, just trying to find his place in this world.
You can check out Frigg's Instagram account here: https://instagram.com/lil_frigg?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
UPDATE 4/21/2023: You probably saw this coming! Frigg's foster parents have made him their permanent pup! We couldn't be happier. 🙂
11/17/2022: Lilly is a chestnut Quarter horse type mare with a body condition score of 3 of 9, which means she is thin but not emaciated. She is one of our Golden Girls -- likely 28-32 years old, based on her dentition, though our vet did say she could have prematurely worn teeth. So far, she seems to be a calm, friendly, sweet mare with a very boop-able nose!
We have been collaborating lately with Save a Forgotten Equine (SAFE) and she came to us through SAFE, where she wound up with her gelding friend Declan when their family's circumstances made it difficult for them to care for the horses. She has been a broodmare in the past, and has not been ridden since she reportedly bucked someone off 13 years ago. SAFE had her evaluated by their vet. Bloodwork was fairly normal, she was dewormed and dusted for lice (precautionary). She will be seen by a farrier shortly. She will have her vaccines and dental float at the end of the month, giving her the opportunity to put on some weight.
We are just getting to know more about Miss Lilly while she's in foster care. We will post more details soon.
January 6, 2023: Lilly is now at a healthy weight and is up-to-date on her vaccinations and dental...and that means she's ready to find her new home. Given her age, Lilly's not going to be a rider, but she's such a sweet girl, she'll make a fantabulous companion horse. And that nose!! You'll be wanting to give that sweet schnozz a pet every time you walk past her. It makes us smile every single time.
May 25, 2023: Lilly was adopted and went on the ferry to live at her new home on Guemes Island!
