A wild horse, with its mane flowing in the wind and hooves pounding the ground, represents freedom in its purest form. Most of us only get to glimpse this majesty in movies or photographs, but for those lucky few who run horse sanctuaries, such heartwarming moments are almost a daily sight.
Imagine the beautiful story of Phoenix, a wild mustang, and his beloved mate, Ghost. Their tale is no ordinary one. Clare Staples, the founder of Skydog Sanctuary, happened upon an image of Phoenix trying to escape a catch pen, his eyes locked with Ghost’s. Phoenix’s courageous leap that day was not to run away, but rather to stand guard over his family. Such strong family bonds are common amongst wild mustangs, showing the depth of their emotions.
In an effort to save Phoenix from captivity, Staples worked tirelessly. The mission of Skydog Sanctuary, after all, is not just to rescue these noble creatures, but also to reintroduce them to the wild – their true home. As Clare delved deeper into the story of Phoenix and Ghost, she learned of their unfortunate separation. While Phoenix often made appearances, Ghost seemed to have vanished.
With a heart full of determination, Clare adopted Phoenix, giving him a new home in Oregon’s Skydog Ranch. Although Phoenix seemed content, the absence of Ghost left a void in his heart. For almost two years, Clare kept searching for Ghost, hoping to give their story a happy ending.
Then, in an unexpected twist of fate, Clare spotted Ghost available for adoption online. Without a second thought, she placed her bid, hoping to reunite these soulmates. The universe seemed to be on their side, for Clare emerged victorious in her quest. When Phoenix and Ghost finally laid eyes on each other after their long separation, their joy was palpable. Side by side once again, they thrived, healing each other with the strength of their bond.
Clare’s dedication to these wild horses extends beyond just Phoenix and Ghost. At Skydog Ranch, all the wild horses and burros are treated with unparalleled kindness. “For those who wish solitude, we respect their wishes. But for those who have felt the harshness of the world, we offer love and compassion,” Clare shares with warmth.
Witnessing such reunions reminds us of the depth of connections in the animal kingdom. The story of Phoenix and Ghost is a testament to love’s enduring power. Let’s all take a moment to appreciate these beautiful creatures and remember the importance of kindness and compassion in our world. If you’re inspired by their tale, consider supporting animal sanctuaries in their mission or remember to “adopt don’t shop” when thinking of bringing a pet into your home.
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#horses #wildmustangs #animalrescue #sanctuary
