05/14/2025
Sometimes the kindest thing we can do is also the hardest. Today, we helped Dusty leave her old, tired body and cross the rainbow bridge.
Dusty was 32-34 years old. A mustang, born in the wild, and with a survivor's spirit to the end. She has been loved by her owners over the years, friend to her pasture mates and teacher to countless kids. She has enjoyed the last several months at the new Hands and Hoofs location grazing the property, running in the arena, and relaxing with her friends.
Last week, she went off her food and showed other symptoms that something was up. Despite the tireless work of our volunteers, and multiple vet visits and tests, her body was tired and the best option was to let her go with dignity and surrounded by love. We will remember her, and thank her for all she gave each of us.
This is the responsibility we take on for each resident of Treasured Heart Ranch. We make a commitment that we will be their forever home, caring for them when their backs can't carry a saddle, their teeth go bad, their vision blurs. We make sure that we continually prioritize quality of their days over quantity, and when they are no longer having fun, we hold them as they leave us to the next chapter. If you would like to help us cover vet expenses for Dusty and all of our senior and rescue animals, please consider making a donation.
Run free, Dusty. You'll have some friends to meet you on the other side of the rainbow bridge. Say hi to them for us ๐
