Willow

Willow is our oldest girl at almost 30.  Having been sent her craigslist ad, it was very hard not to step in and rescue her.  When she came to us, she was 250lbs underweight, very weak, anemic, with rain rot everywhere and had major anxiety issues.  When she stepped off the trailer, we had to fight back the tears.

Willows first six months at EAP were spent in a pen alone so she would not have to fight for food. Using the UC Davis method of re-feeding, Willow put weight on quickly and got stronger every day!  The day we were able to finally put Willow in with the rest of the herd was a long awaited, wonderful day!

One of our most amazing moments with Willow was a few days after she arrived at EAP.  Her first week, we were feeding small amounts, 6 times a day so we often spent the whole day with her.  Willows favorite thing at the time was to stand at the gate and watch the herd of minis near by.  On that day, I stood next to her, wondering what she was thinking.  I rested chin on my arms and gazed out in the same direction she was staring.  Slowly, I felt Willow lean closer and closer into me until her head was on my shoulder. I reached up  with both hands and started to rub her face.  After a few moments, her head got heavy and I knew she had fallen asleep.  To feel the trust she was putting in me was one of the most rewarding moments I’ve ever had as a rescuer.  That day I swore, she would never again be in a bad situation and she would always have a home with us.

Willow has been with EAP for a year now and she is doing amazing.  She was born to be part of a herd and, although she still gets a little upset if she can’t see one of her herd mates, she is so much more relaxed. She loves her scratches more than anything and will walk away from her food if she sees a brush in your hand!

Because Willow has suspensory issues, and lets face it..shes done enough in her long life, she is not rideable and is a sanctuary horse.  If you are looking for a wonderful companion horse, she is available to foster to a very special home.