For Pet's Sake

When I was a little girl, I lived for Sundays. Every week, I cashed in my chore money for the chance to take a whirl on my favorite horse, Zipper, at the children’s Pony Rides. Today, the site is home to Chase Palm Park ’s Merry-Go-Round. How ironic. This aptly-named Pinto cantered with confidence around the small dusty ring as I clutched the reins in my tiny hands. With the wind whipping through my mane of hair, I imagined myself to be a great horsewoman.

Over the years, I’ve come to know many magnificent horses like Zipper, but none have touched my heart as much as an equine named Epona. Her tale starts off rather sad, but I assure you, it has a happy ending. Last year Epona was sold to a man answering a free to good home ad in a Central California newspaper. He promised to retire the 20-year-old mare to a local ranch, where she would spend her days grazing in verdant pastures.

But in reality, he had something far more sinister in store for the honey-colored horse – the slaughterhouse. You see, in California and a number of other states, it’s legal to sell horses destined for human consumption. But what is not legal is what transpired over the next several weeks. Epona and several other unfortunate horses were nearly starved to death. Why spend the money on hay when they’re being sent to slaughter anyway?, this man reasoned.

Without a moment to spare, a Good Samaritan tipped off Animal Control to the horses’ plight. These steeds in need were immediately rescued and sent to local ranches where they began healing from the abuse they suffered.

Now, this is where the story gets really good. Epona’s rescuer recognized in her a kind and compassionate nature. He contacted the folks at HEARTS Adaptive Riding Academy and this gentle giant soon found herself with a new mission in life – helping handicapped adults and children improve their motor skills as well as increase their self-esteem through the organization’s horseback riding program.

Today, 50 pounds heavier, Epona is one of HEARTS’ beloved four-legged therapists. Program Director Connie Weinsoff says, “Epona is very caring and calm. She’s going to be a great lesson horse for years to come.”

Perhaps we can all learn a lesson in love and forgiveness from Epona. This old soul did not let the cruel act of one person stop her from bestowing compassion upon those with special needs. I can almost hear Zipper whinny in approval.

HEARTS welcomes new volunteers, board members, and donations. For more information, call (805) 964-1519 or visit www.heartsadaptiveriding.org.