Redwings Horse Sanctuary
All Posts & News Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Supporter Features Inspector Spotlights Previous Post Jonny Be Bueno Jonny Be Bueno By: Alexis Arbaugh April 16, 2024 Success Stories Tags:CARMA, Dresage, Jumping, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance The first time Marisa Isbell rode Jonny Be Bueno at Redwings Horse Sanctuary in Paso Robles, California, she could feel that he was a special horse. Even from the walk, she could tell that he was attempting to communicate with her and understand her with every leg aid that she applied. He seemed eager to converse with Marisa through the only way they could: body language. He was an incredibly sensitive horse, so he always responded right away, eager to figure out what Marisa asked. Jonny is a gray ten-year-old Thoroughbred gelding. Sired by Rattlesnake Bridge and out of Silver Spook, he had an impressive sales history. Sold first as a yearling at the Ocala Breeders’ Sale (OBS) 2016 August Yearlings sale for $55,000, then again as a two-year-old at the OBS April 2017 Spring Sale of Two-Year-Olds in Training for $80,000. Jonny then ended up in California in the fall of 2017, where he raced at Del Mar and Los Alamitos before retiring. That is when he ended with CARMA and Redwings Horse Sanctuary, beginning a new chapter with Marisa. “He is doing so well,” wrote Marisa. For the first ten or so months that Marisa owned Jonny, they did mostly groundwork. Groundwork serves as the first step in building a trusting relationship with a horse, as it allows both horse and rider to get to know each other before progressing to riding. They did so much groundwork because Jonny was extremely reactive, and Marisa could tell that he needed time to unwind. He needed to get used to his new environment and surroundings, as well as gain some confidence. Marisa started riding Jonny shortly after the ten-month mark of his adoption. “He has completely blossomed into a confident, poised, well-developed horse,” Marisa shared. Jonny, once prone to spookiness and tension, can now remain calm even in the face of heavy winds, playing dogs, and passing cows. Jonny loves the mental stimulation and consideration that comes with practicing dressage. Marisa has even started teaching him how to jump over small jumps, which he is not impressed by in the slightest. Marisa is looking forward to the continued journey of growth and partnership with Jonny. With dedication and perseverance, she aims to further develop their dressage skills. Marisa is also eager to focus on improving Jonny’s jumping technique. As they progress, Marisa hopes to compete in three-day eventing competitions, where they can showcase their combined talents and celebrate their remarkable bond. Together, they embark on an exciting journey filled with shared achievements, unforgettable moments, and the unwavering companionship that only a horse and rider can share. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission
Read More >Time & Location Oct 18, 2024, 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM Paso Robles, 6875 Union Rd, Paso Robles, CA 93446, USA About the event Calling all Equine Photography enthusiasts! Come learn from three experienced equine photographers (Lori Sortino, Deb Hofstetter, and Cathy Wallace) who have worked together since 2019 photographing horses. Together we have produced thousands of horse images, including portraits, action, running, jumping, detail, artistic, technical, competition, and candids. We will teach you how to capture great horse images under various conditions, and how to work with the real world challenges of backgrounds, lighting, and horse behavior! Workshop Limited to 8 participants. Where will the Workshop Take Place? We will be photographing the horses (and burros if you wish!) at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, located at 6875 Union Rd. Paso Robles, CA 93446 The Sanctuary is about 20 minutes from town. What’s included in this workshop? Friday Oct 18, 2024 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.AFTERNOON WORKSHOP ~ The PM workshop gives us the opportunity to shoot with beautiful end of day light and possibly some sunset colors, depending on the weather. We’ll start in the early afternoon with a review of equine photography, then we’ll show you how to take portraits using the shade of a barn and natural lighting along with post processing edits to perfect the final image. After an early dinner we’ll head out to explore the sanctuary and find horses in pastures to photograph while the light gets better (sun lower on the horizon). We’ll wrap up when we run out of light! Cost SILVER Early Bird Registration $250 ~ (ends 30 days prior to workshop) BRONZE Workshop Registration $300 GOLD Workshop Registration $400 ~ (includes Redwings swag, i.e. t-shirt, hat, stickers) This is a FUNDRAISER for Redwings, and your generosity is appreciated. If your budget allows, please select the GOLD registration. There will be no refunds, but you can transfer your registration to another participant if you are unable to attend after you have registered and paid. Thank you. Register Here: https://forms.gle/dMQfyu91ayvgtti36 Redwings’ mission is to eliminate the causes of equine suffering through education and community outreach programs, rescue abused and neglected equines, and provide permanent sanctuary or selected adoptive homes for those equines.
Read More >About the event Calling all Equine Photography enthusiasts! Come learn from three experienced equine photographers (Lori Sortino, Deb Hofstetter, and Cathy Wallace) who have worked together since 2019 photographing horses. Together we have produced thousands of horse images, including portraits, action, running, jumping, detail, artistic, technical, competition, and candids. We will teach you how to capture great horse images under various conditions, and how to work with the real world challenges of backgrounds, lighting, and horse behavior! Workshop Limited to 8 participants. Where will the Workshop Take Place? We will be photographing the horses (and burros if you wish!) at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, located at 6875 Union Rd. Paso Robles, CA 93446 The Sanctuary is about 20 minutes from town. What’s included in this workshop? Saturday May 18, 2024 6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. MORNING WORKSHOP ~ Starting at day break gives us the opportunity to shoot with beautiful early morning light. We’ll shoot until the light gets challenging (between 9-9:30 a.m.), have a light breakfast, then we’ll show you how to take portraits using the shade of a barn and natural lighting along with post processing edits to perfect the final image. We’ll wrap up in time to send you off for lunch with friends in town or to head somewhere to do some image review and editing! Cost SILVER Early Bird Registration $250 ~ (ends 30 days prior to workshop) BRONZE Workshop Registration $300 GOLD Workshop Registration $400 ~ (includes Redwings swag, i.e. t-shirt, hat, stickers) This is a FUNDRAISER for Redwings, and your generosity is appreciated. If your budget allows, please select the GOLD registration. There will be no refunds, but you can transfer your registration to another participant if you are unable to attend after you have registered and paid. Thank you. Register Here: https://forms.gle/dMQfyu91ayvgtti36 Redwings’ mission is to eliminate the causes of equine suffering through education and community outreach programs, rescue abused and neglected equines, and provide permanent sanctuary or selected adoptive homes for those equines.
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All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Hank’s Homecoming Hank’s Homecoming By: Alexis Arbaugh January 30, 2024 Other, Success Stories Tags:Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Success story, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance After a year of healing from the heartbreak of putting her 29-year-old off-the-track Thoroughbred down, Michele was ready to get back out there and find her forever horse. Michele, having known Sara Ruggerone, the Equine Care Manager at Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Rescue, for years, felt that it would be the perfect place to begin her search. Their connection went back to the time when they both boarded their horses at the same facility where they first met. Having known each other for so long they knew a lot about each other’s riding styles, skills, and limitations with horses. Michele turned in an adoption application and got approval right away. Eager to meet her potential forever horse, she visited Redwings Horse Sanctuary and Rescue to meet Hustling Hank, the horse that Sara believed would be a fitting match for Michele. Hustling Hank was a large, unmarked dark bay gelding. “It was love at first sight,” wrote Michele. Michele was so attracted to Hank that she would have taken him home that very day. However, Sara advised her to adhere to Redwings’ adoption process, to ensure a smooth transition for both Michele and Hank. Michele agreed to follow the adoption process. She began spending several days a week riding and bonding with Hank at Redwings. As the comfort and compatibility between Michele and Hank grew evident to both Michele and the Redwings employees, the decision was made for Michele to bring Hank home. Despite being much younger than any of Michele’s previous horses, Hank’s mellow personality contradicted his age. He turned out to be the perfect goofy and quirky “youngster” that Michele needed, especially after the loss of her older OTTB. Hank’s kind eyes and Labrador Retriever-like climb into your lap atitude embodied everything Michele could have hoped for in her new horse. Hank couldn’t be happier in his new home! He has made friends with his neighbor Willis and loves the 5 goats that live on the other side of the fence. With Michele by his side, Hank is set to enjoy a life filled with happiness and free from stress. In terms of riding, Michele and Hank clicked right from the beginning, making everything seem easy and straightforward. Their focus currently lies on basic flatwork, with an emphasis on staying relaxed and balanced. While Michele has plans to introduce collection in the future, she’s in no rush. As unfazed and chill as Hank, he proves to be the perfect companion for rides anywhere. Michele has shifted her focus away from structured training programs and show days, choosing to prioritize her evolving partnership with Hank. While she aims to maintain their skills for potential clinic attendance, her primary goal is to explore trails and the beach with her newfound best friend. Michele’s journey with Hank centers around the joy of shared experiences and the simple pleasures of forging a deep connection and love. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission
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All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Bound by Love: Cortez and Melissa Bound by Love: Cortez and Melissa By: Alexis Arbaugh January 16, 2024 Success Stories Tags:aftercare, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Aliance Melissa had been working at Redwings Horse Sanctuary when Sea of Cortez arrived. The stunning dark bay caught her eye immediately. The sweet and soft expression in his eyes made Melissa fall in love with him. Cortez seemed to only know how to love and be kind because that’s what made him stand out among the slew of other horses at Redwings. His thick and strong build made him seem more intimidating than he was. Melissa had been dedicated to her work at Redwings Horse Sanctuary for many years, caring for and tending to the various horses that found their way to the sanctuary. However, when Sea of Cortez arrived, it was a moment she would never forget. The moment she laid eyes on Sea of Cortez, Melissa was captivated. There was something special about him that set him apart from the other horses at the sanctuary. It was as if he had an aura of sweetness and gentleness that radiated from him. While his strong and thick build might have seemed intimidating at first glance, it was only a testament to his resilience and strength. Despite his appearance, Sea of Cortez was a gentle giant. He had a way of making people feel at ease in his presence as if he knew that his purpose in life was to provide comfort and solace to those around him. As Melissa continued her dedicated work at the sanctuary, her bond with Sea of Cortez deepened each day. Inevitably, Melissa found herself longing to make Sea of Cortez a permanent part of her life. After careful consideration, Melissa came to the decision that she couldn’t imagine her life without Cortez by her side. She officially adopted him and welcomed him into her home. Due to the efforts of Melissa and the other dedicated Redwings employees at the sanctuary, Sea of Cortez had some retraining during his stay. This preparation meant that he was well-prepared to transition to his new home with Melissa. Having an athletic build made it easy for Cotez to do the things that Melissa asked of him with ease. It was apparent that he was naturally suited for a wide range of activities, making it easy for him to excel in the tasks Melissa asked of him. It was as if he were designed for anything but a career as a racehorse. Cortez’s intelligence was another remarkable quality. His smart brain meant that he understood what was being asked of him and the reason behind it. So he never fussed or put up a fight over work. Sea of Cortez could seamlessly transition from jumping to herding dummy cows, or even enjoying leisurely trail rides. He adapted effortlessly to each new activity. Melissa would love to make Cortez into an Eventer one day. With his training going as good as it is now, they should be going to shows any day now. She is very excited and feels blessed to have a horse like Cortez in her life. “I don’t know how I was so fortunate to wind up with him,” she wrote when reminiscing on her journey with Cortez. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission
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All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Joe’s Journey Joe’s Journey By: Alexis Arbaugh December 21, 2023 Success Stories Tags:aftercare, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Aliance Seven years ago, April adopted Mountain Yoadler, affectionately known as Hank. While she wanted to immediately adopt another horse, she wisely realized that she should wait a few years before taking on the responsibility of two horses. Years later April attended the annual block party fundraiser hosted by Redwings Horse Sanctuary, the organization from which she adopted Hank. She thoroughly enjoyed the riding demonstrations, engaging with fellow adopters, and chatting with the dedicated Redwings trainers and staff. After inquiring about the horse, she discovered his name was Port Saint Joe, Joe in the barn. Excited about making him part of her family, April completed an adoption application after leaving the event. She spent the rest of the week at Redwings, riding Joe to get to know him better and receive guidance from their trainers. Just one week after her application was approved, April brought Joe home. One horse demonstration, in particular, captured April’s attention. She couldn’t tear her eyes away from a handsome, tall black gelding with a small white star above his eyes. At that moment, all her reservations about getting a second horse were discarded, as she felt the pull that this horse had on her. Seven years ago, April adopted Mountain Yoadler, affectionately known as Hank. While she wanted to immediately adopt another horse, she wisely realized that she should wait a few years before taking on the responsibility of two horses. Years later April attended the annual block party fundraiser hosted by Redwings Horse Sanctuary, the organization from which she adopted Hank. She thoroughly enjoyed the riding demonstrations, engaging with fellow adopters, and chatting with the dedicated Redwings trainers and staff. After inquiring about the horse, she discovered his name was Port Saint Joe, Joe in the barn. Excited about making him part of her family, April completed an adoption application after leaving the event. She spent the rest of the week at Redwings, riding Joe to get to know him better and receive guidance from their trainers. Just one week after her application was approved, April brought Joe home. One horse demonstration, in particular, captured April’s attention. She couldn’t tear her eyes away from a handsome, tall black gelding with a small white star above his eyes. At that moment, all her reservations about getting a second horse were discarded, as she felt the pull that this horse had on her. In just one year of owning Joe, their progress had been nothing short of amazing. They successfully participated in two horse shows and placed well. At home, Joe has no trouble navigating small jumping courses. Their favorite activity to do together is go on long, relaxing trail rides. With Joe’s versatility and enthusiasm for everything, April intends to keep him as her cherished all-around horse! Joe with his brother Hank, read Hank’ story here: https://www.thoroughbredaftercare.org/mountain-yodler-2/ Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission
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All Posts Press Releases Success Stories Aftercare Editorials Previous PostNext Post Mountain Yodler and His Girl Mountain Yodler and His Girl By: Alexis Arbaugh December 17, 2023 Success Stories Tags:Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Thoroughbred Aftercare, Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance After being involved in a bad accident on horseback, April recognized that if she was going to own another horse it would have to be dependable and safe. She was determined to rebuild her confidence and sought a horse she could wholeheartedly rely on, envisioning a future together with her new riding partner. April was never a big fan of Thoroughbreds because she grew up riding Quarter Horses and Warm Bloods until she found Mountain Yodler. While searching on the Redwings Horse Sanctuary website, she was drawn to his kind eyes, he was a gorgeous, big, bay gelding that looked like he would be the perfect fit for April. She set out on a mission to Lockwood, California to find herself a horse. She set out on a mission to Lockwood, California to find herself a horse. She knew from the moment she saw and rode Mountain Yodler at the sanctuary that he needed to come home with her. His barn name is Hank now and he is “the love of my life,” wrote April. In the 7 years that April has had Hank, he has taught her so much. They fully trust one another and know that they will always stand by each other’s side. In their partnership, Hank’s honesty and dependability shine through, especially when it comes to jumping. He doesn’t hold grudges or become agitated if April makes a mistake. Hank fearlessly approaches even the most unconventional-looking jumps and gracefully adapts to both long and short distances. Hank is the perfect horse for her because he is just the right amount of a challenge while still offering forgiveness. Upon adopting Hank, April received advice from her doctor, cautioning her to be very careful when it came to her riding due to her prior injury. Despite these limitations, she was happy knowing that she could flat safely and possibly do some pole work or cross-rail work. She felt very comfortable with Hank and knew that he would always take care of her. Hank has not only met but exceeded every goal April had set for him. Astonishingly, he’s even taken on jumps as high as 2’9. Unfortunately, Hank has been diagnosed with Anhidrosis, a condition that impairs the proper functioning of his sweat glands or, in some cases, renders them nonfunctional. It is a problem because it doesn’t allow a horse to sweat properly, therefore making it hard for the horse to cool down after a workout. Horses with Anhidrosis should refrain from engaging in strenuous activities. Post-workout care becomes crucial to ensure his body temperature returns to a safe range. Given this diagnosis, it is strongly recommended that Hank’s activities be limited to jumps 2’9 and under and that he avoids participating in horse shows to safeguard his health. Share This Article Do you have a success story that you would like to share? Submit your experience with an accredited organization here: Success Story Submission
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Come and celebrate Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s 31st anniversary! Tours of the property, food, beer and wine will be available. There will also be live music from Monte Mills and The Lucky Horseshoe Band, shaved ice from Paradise Shaved Ice, a live auction, photo booth, and lots of fun games for the family. This annual event is the key fundraiser for Redwings and the donations support medical care and feed for the horses for the year. Come for the love of the horses and contribute to supporting our mission to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome abused, abandoned and neglected horses. Event Info Link: https://www.redwingshorsesanctuary.org/event-details/annual-block-party-fundraiser TICKETS: General Admission: $50.00 *Children under 6 are free BBQ lunch is included with glass of wine, beer or soft drink. Live performance by Monte Mills and The Lucky Horseshoe Band. Live Auction – including fun getaways Door Prizes 805 photo booth Family Fun and Games VIP Reserved Tables: Tour of the facility BBQ lunch Wine for the table Charcuterie board for the table Live performance by Monte Mills and The Lucky Horseshoe Band. Live Auction – including fun getaways Door Prizes 805 Photo Booth Family Fun and Games Link to Tickets: https://www.my805tix.com/e/red-wings-2022
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Mountain Yodler raced 23 times in the claiming ranks in California, only reaching the winner’s circle once and earning three other placings.
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