Yvonne Wall—California
Rescued Crippled Horse
I operate a small sanctuary for horses called Forever Free Horse Rescue, and this is the story of Rio. One day I was reading the local Penny Saver, a small paper listing animals for sale, when my eyes were drawn to an ad which read "Horse for Free—has leg problems." I knew I had to investigate this situation and save this horse—it was obvious his owners just didn't want him anymore. I drove to the location and when I saw Rio, I was shocked. He was emaciated and suffering from severe deformities—his legs were completely twisted and bent. His owner had the nerve to tell me he would be a good riding horse for kids—please! This poor horse could hardly walk! I carefully loaded Rio into my trailer, and he's been with me ever since. He is kind and very loving, and loves to run and buck. He doesn't seem to be in pain, but I know that eventually his legs will give out. I feel in my heart Rio is very grateful to live out his life being loved and well taken care of. He is truly a special boy!