Summer 26 Freedom Fund

This Fourth of July feels different.

I recently returned from spending 10 incredible days at a Mustang Sanctuary in Colorado as the runner for ROTH - Reach Out to Horses, A Mustang Spectacular and Problem-Solving Clinic. Every day, from sunrise to sunset, I was immersed in what I love most—working alongside horses and people who share the same passion and purpose.  The Language of the Horse.

While I was away, the realities continued to grow. We already knew this year's dry winter meant less water for hay farmers, and before I left, hay prices had already jumped from $13.95 to $16.50 a bale. By the time I returned, they had increased again at the feed stores.

Just one year ago, our longtime hay supplier, Dave, delivered beautiful Colorado grass hay for $11.50 a bale before retiring. Today, thanks to a dedicated local crew who haul hay in from Colorado, we're grateful to still have access to quality hay—but we're now paying about $5 more per bale than we were a year ago.

When you're feeding a sanctuary herd of 50 Plus, those increases add up quickly. We need around 500 bales of hay each month, including alfalfa for our senior horses, plus feed. That means our monthly feed costs have increased by approximately $2,500.

Driving home through Colorado, I found myself looking at the green hay fields with a new appreciation. I thought about the farmers, the truck drivers, the miles traveled, and the countless hands it takes to get every bale into our barns. None of it is something we take for granted.

Since returning home, fires have continued to threaten communities in both Colorado and New Mexico. Friends I had just met at the clinic have been preparing to evacuate, helping move horses to safety. My heart is with them, and it's another reminder of how fragile this season can be.

Instead of preparing our annual Fourth of July parade float, our amazing team of local volunteers is focusing our energy on raising the funds needed to keep our horses fed.

Caring for this herd isn't the path everyone would choose, but it is the life we've committed to. These horses are our family, our purpose, and our responsibility. Some days feel heavy, especially after a year filled with both heartbreaking loss and the joy of new life, but the mission remains the same.

If you've supported us before, shared our story, donated, volunteered, or simply believed in what we do, THANK YOU. Your kindness keeps this sanctuary going.

This Summer Online Auction - Fundraiser for Hay, has the biggest goal of the year so far. Our hope is to raise enough to cover at least one month's worth of hay—and, if possible, purchase additional hay before prices rise further and supplies become even more limited.

Every bid, every donation, and every share makes a difference.

Thank you for helping us care for these incredible horses. We truly couldn't do it without our village.

Happy Rascal Ranch is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation formed specifically and primarily for the purpose of providing a sanctuary and forever home for horses once wild in Placitas, New Mexico and rescued equines. There’s a specific emphasis on natural herd dynamics.  In addition, to offering an opportunity for experiential learning and transforming through connecting with the herd in nature, this grassroots mother-and-daughter-founded sanctuary is held together by community and an unwavering passion for animals. They have saved and offered sanctuary to many equines including horses that were once wild, seniors, some with special needs, and donkeys. Many of their rescues suffered from neglect, but now they have a forever home at Happy Rascal Ranch. We appreciate your support!