Horse & Halo

09/13/2024

📣 ATTENTION HORSE OWNERS! 📣

Horse & Halo is expanding to Meridian, and we're excited to offer EXCLUSIVE FULL CARE BOARDING at our second location, opening October 1st!

Enjoy premium care for your horse with access to:
➡️ 🏠 Indoor & outdoor arena
➡️ 🔒 Secure code-locked tack rooms
➡️ 🛋️ Private common area
➡️ 🐴 Live stall webcams 24/7 monitoring
➡️ 📝 Personalized weekly health updates
➡️ 🌾 Daily turnout spaces
➡️ ✨ AND MORE!

Check back NEXT WEEK for our full announcement with all the exciting details!

09/03/2024

🐴 Urgent Call for Action: Welfare of Working Livestock Used by IOGA Licensed Outfitters 🐴

One year ago, Two Socks a horse that had been used for outfitting and guiding was discovered on Forest Service land in a state of severe distress—emaciated and dehydrated. When concerns were raised, the horse's owner, a licensed outfitter under the Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association (IOGA), dismissed them, saying, "He is in retirement."

This heartbreaking situation highlights a grim reality: Idaho is the only outfitter licensing board in the Pacific Northwest that lacks rules to protect livestock—horses, mules, and donkeys. Currently, the IOGA's licensing standards do not include any requirements addressing the care and treatment of these animals. While many outfitters already provide excellent care for their livestock, establishing these rules is crucial to ensure a consistent standard of care across the state.

The existing licensing regulations focus on the equipment used by outfitters and guides, such as fishing gear, hunting tools, and watercraft, but remain silent on the minimum standards for the care and treatment of the animals who work alongside them.

But the story doesn’t end there—because we refuse to forget the horses and mules left behind a year ago.

At a recent public town hall meeting, Horse & Halo asked for the inclusion of essential language addressing the care of working livestock. The response? “Maybe that should be addressed next year.” But we know the urgency of this issue cannot wait, and neither should you.

That’s why today, Horse & Halo submitted specific amendments requesting immediate consideration. These proposals are important in the upcoming rule changes—this is our moment to make a difference.

If you believe that these animals, who give so much, deserve better, we need your voice. Please consider copying and pasting the message below and sending it to
[email protected].

Together, we can set clear standards for the welfare of working livestock in Idaho.
----------------------------------------------------
Dear Members of the Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association Board,

I am writing to express my strong support for the inclusion of specific standards for the care and welfare of working livestock—horses, mules, and donkeys—in the rules governing outfitters and guides. These animals play a critical role in the industry, and their health and well-being should be explicitly addressed in the regulations.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,

08/22/2024

🚨 Warning: Graphic Content 🚨

As the Animal Health and Welfare Chair for the Idaho Horse Council, I have a profound ethical responsibility to share this critical information with our community.

The purpose of this post is to inform and prevent further harm to horses, as well as to assist those who may have suffered injuries that aren't immediately visible. This is firsthand information: I personally traveled to the county, requested inspections of other horses, and advocated for the suspect to be prohibited from working with horses until the case is resolved through the judicial process. Although the individual has been charged and is no longer employed at this establishment, he continues to solicit horse riding and training services on social media, which remains a serious concern.

The images below depict the heartbreaking and irreversible damage inflicted on three horses (others are confirmed). Their tongues have been mutilated—one hangs limply, while the other two are missing half of their tongues. These horses also suffer from severe saddle sores (these pics are 2-months old) and acute lameness. Tragically, they will never be able to eat, drink, or be bridled in the same way again.

These injuries occurred under the care of an individual responsible for working, riding, and training horses at a feedlot. Given that this individual has worked at multiple feedlots across our state, it is possible that he may have ridden your horse, a friend’s horse, or others you know.

Here’s a brief account of what transpired: A knowledgeable horse owner and equine health professional entrusted a friend of a friend to exercise his horses at a feedlot. Upon visiting the feedlot to check on them, he was horrified to discover that his horses had massive saddle sores and experienced significant weight loss. The individual riding them casually suggested, “I think they need their teeth done.” The owner immediately took them home and scheduled dental appointments. When the equine dentist examined them, she was shocked—two of the horses were missing the majority of their tongues, and the third was significantly injured. These horses entered training whole and came back broken.

While I have chosen not to reveal this individual’s name publicly, I am sharing a photo to raise awareness. If your horses have been under his care, you will recognize him. If you have observed injuries in your horse—such as extreme head shyness, severely torn or missing tongues (go and look), saddle sores, head injuries, or acute lameness—please contact your veterinarian immediately. If you are looking for a trainer, please keep this information in mind as a reference.

If you suspect your horse has experienced similar treatment or injuries, please speak up. If you are not comfortable going to the authorities, reach out to a rescue organization, an animal advocate, or The Idaho Horse Council. Together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of our horses.

While these events are deeply disturbing, I urge that this platform not be used for diagnosing, speculating, or offering advice. The judicial system is handling this case, and I am confident that justice will be served.

08/22/2024

Wow, The Scout Guide Boise and Treasure Valley and The Scout Guide we're absolutely thrilled and honored to be featured in your top six non-profits! 🎉 Thank you so much for this incredible recognition—your support means the world to us and the horses we care for. 🐴💖 "

08/20/2024

Lila, Ginger, Jackson, and Mando have officially settled into their foster home! 🏞️ Watching them enjoy the wide-open space to just be horses is such a beautiful sight.

08/16/2024

**Update on Cinnamon:** This resilient little mare from the Twin Falls herd has come a long way. After being confined to a tiny space for over 3 years, she developed contracted heels and a misformed coffin bone. Her prognosis was initially guarded, but thanks to the dedicated care of our farrier and veterinarian—and a little help from Mother Nature and Father Time—she’s made incredible strides! 🌟 Not only is she growing stronger each day, but she now enjoys the freedom of being out and about like a horse should—for the first time in her life. 🐴💪

08/15/2024

🌟 Thank you Bonnie Garatea Amy Edwards , and Lynn, for the fly masks 🦟 and Patty Voss Hall for fly boots and probiotics! Having extra masks, and leg protection has been so helpful for our horses, keeping them comfortable and protected. 💙 "

08/11/2024

"🌟 A huge thank you to Patty Voss Hall for the incredible Masterson Method training session! Our volunteers gained valuable skills to help the horses in our program, and we're so grateful for the time and knowledge shared. 🐴👏 Thank you to everyone who attended and made this experience so special! 🙏"

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10224619432136461&id=1329552629

08/05/2024

Too often, concerns about a horse's body condition and health are dismissed with the phrase, "That's just an old horse." Yet, a picture is worth a thousand words. 📸

We invite you to share photos of your senior horses along with a brief description of your special "recipe" for keeping them happy and healthy. Let’s show the world that, with preventive care and a nutritious diet, senior horses can lead vibrant, comfortable, and joyful lives. 💖

08/01/2024

Two happy, healthy, and deserving horses are heading to a wonderful foster family in Fairfield! 🏡❤️ We are looking for transport from the Nampa area to Fairfield over the next couple of days (preferably during the cooler part of the day). 🚛🐎 If you're heading that way with a trailer and wouldn't mind giving these two a lift, please send us a message! 🙏✨

Thank you for your support! 🌟

07/26/2024

Devastating fires in the Lewiston area have forced many to evacuate, including those with livestock and pets.

🐾 Support the Idaho Animal Rescue Network - A Beacon of Hope in Times of Crisis: The Idaho Animal Rescue Network is making an incredible impact in response to the devastating fires. Their dedication and hard work are truly inspiring.

❤️ You can support the Idaho Animal Rescue Network's efforts by donating directly to them:

- PayPal: PayPal.me/IdahoPetRescue
- Venmo: IdahoPetRescue (4 digit code is 9751)
- Ca$h App: $IdahoAnimalRescue
- Credit or Debit Card/ACH/Apple Pay/Google Pay: Donate.IdahoRescue.org

🔥 Updated Donation Requests 7/26

For the People:

📌 Phone chargers and charging cords (all different types of phones)
📌 Towels (there are showers at the church)
📌 Gas cards
📌 Walmart, Costco, and other gift cards.
📌 Paper goods (paper towels, toilet paper, etc)

They are doing well on water, snacks, etc. at the Lapwai location (Methodist Church).

For the Animals:

📌 Wire crates (all sizes)
📌 Tie outs
📌 P**p bags
📌 Outdoor dog kennels

We are good on pet food and offers of hay for now.

Items can be dropped off with us at 2021 Ripon Ave in Lewiston, Nez Perce Tribal Housing Authority (Lapwai), or the Methodist Church in Lapwai. These donations are available to all of those affected by the fires. Sadly, many of these people have lost all they own and escaped with very little.

If you wish to donate funds to purchase these items, you can do so using the following methods (please specify “wildfires” on your donation).

Credit or Debit Card/ACH/Apple Pay/Google Pay: Donate.IdahoRescue.org

PayPal: PayPal.me/IdahoPetRescue

Venmo: IdahoPetRescue (4 digit code is 9751)

Ca$h App: $IdahoAnimalRescue

🏦 Freedom Northwest Credit Union under “Idaho Animal Rescue Network”

Funds will be used to purchase items above as well as other supplies related to this fire.

TAX RECEIPTS AVAILABLE

07/25/2024

I traveled on a whirlwind adventure to Fairfield, Bellevue, and Hailey. I had the pleasure of visiting with two wonderful families opening their hearts and homes to fostering. ❤️🏡

The highlight of my trip? Visiting Sky Ranch, where Willow and her adorable new foal, Scout, are being fostered. 🐴✨ Scout is absolutely CUTE CUTE! 🥰🐴

A huge thank you to Sky Ranch Idaho for fostering Willow and Scout! 🙏❤️ You guys are the best!

07/25/2024

🐴 This sweet little horse came to Horse & Halo as a weanling. Look at her now... 🌟 The friendship these two created is amazing! They go together like peanut butter and jelly, cheese and crackers, peas in a pod... you get my drift. 🌟 Happy Gotcha Day, Raven! 🎉 Emma is an amazing human and will take wonderful care of you. ❤️🦄

07/25/2024

Our horses beat the heat with a little creature comfort! 🐴💦 They love their refreshing misters. 🌞❤️

07/22/2024

🎉 Cheers to this dashing fella! Remember Ketchum? He was the sidekick to Chip (now Doc). 🐴✨ Ketchum had a bit of a rough start adjusting with Doc and needed some extra training. He returned to Horse & Halo for a reset, and now, we're thrilled to announce that Ketchum—now known as Ranger—has hit the jackpot with Molly! 🍀🌟 Way to go, Ranger! You've found the perfect match in Molly. We absolutely 💖 these two together! 🥳👏

07/12/2024

Check out horsehalo’s video.

07/04/2024

07/04/2024

07/01/2024

🎨🐴 **That's a Wrap on Our Paint and Pony Weekend!**

Wow, what an incredible few days it's been! Thanks to our amazing Horse & Halo team, we successfully moved 20 paint horses and 7 POA’s, with just 5 more to go. 💪

A HUGE thank you to everyone who made this lofty goal possible:
- 🚚 Heather, Heather, Laney, Sharon, Emma
- 🐴 Our trainer and his family
- 🧹 The care crew at the facility
- 🍷 And, of course, the amazing folks that left wine in the fridge!

Special shoutout to Idaho Materials & Gravel for generously providing land for housing. Your support is invaluable! 🙏

Thank you to Les Schwab for expediting fixing our flat. Your quick help kept us on track! 🚗

We also want to extend our gratitude to Hapi Trails, Inc. for your fantastic collaboration. Together, we're making a difference!

All of these beautiful paint horses and ponies will be up for adoption after they have going through our intake process. Please complete our adoption inquiry to get the ball rolling if you are interested in adopting. 🏡

📸 Swipe through to see some highlights from the weekend!

06/25/2024

Update: thank y'all for supporting us. We are still looking for two larger stock trailers.

We need horse trailers with drivers this Wednesday (yes tomorrow) to help transport a large group of compromised horses. The transport is within the Treasure Valley, will begin at Noon, and will take approximately 20 minutes from point A to point B (unless you’re willing to do a second trip).

If you can lend a hand by volunteering your time, it will make a large impact on a horse's life. We are going to need our community more than ever on this one. Please comment or send us a DM if you're able to help.

06/23/2024

Mares on the move-

Check out horsehalo’s video.

06/23/2024

Join us for a relaxing and enriching evening dedicated to bathing, brushing, braiding, and bonding with a special rescue horse. This unique event is part of our health and wellness program, providing a serene escape from the fast pace of daily life while offering much-needed love and care to our rescue horses.

**What's New This Year:**
We are excited to announce that Showbarn Secrets Draw It Out Horse Health Care Solutions is sponsoring our July Monday Makeovers, providing their amazing line of equine grooming products.

**Event Highlights:**
- **Grooming Sessions:** Enjoy hands-on grooming activities, including bathing, brushing, and braiding, using top-quality products from Draw It Out Horse Health Care Solutions Showbarn Secrets.
- **Wellness Focus:** Discover the importance of grooming in maintaining the health and well-being of our horses.
- **Personal Connection:** Build a special bond with a rescue horse as you spend quality time together.

Spaces are limited, and RSVP is required to ensure a personalized experience for all participants. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with these magnificent animals and contribute to their care. We look forward to sharing this special evening with you!

https://x.gldn.io/AfQneRakEKb

06/21/2024

Happy International Selfie Day! 📸🐴 Obie and Elvis were striking a pose today and feeling photogenic. We want to see your best selfie with your favorite equine friend!

06/18/2024

We applaud the individual who advocated for this mare. While managing business affairs, she noticed a few troubling signs. Despite not being a horse person, she is an animal lover and went above and beyond to help. Thank you.

It was heartbreaking to see the conditions the mare was enduring. She had not received proper hoof care for quite some time and was malnourished due to her inability to chew food properly. The prognosis wasn’t good, but we were unwilling to leave her there to wither away. Even if it was for a short period of time, she deserved better. She was relocated to HH.

She was given a warm mash, provided comfy bedding, and administered anti-inflammatory medication to alleviate the pain in her aching bones. A kind volunteer brushed away her matted hair so she could swat flies—she loved the extra attention.

Sadly, the next day, radiographs of her front feet identified the root cause of her discomfort. Even with extensive treatment, she would continue to suffer discomfort while walking. Faced with this prognosis, the decision was made to give this sweet mare the greatest act of kindness—relief from pain and suffering.

While difficult, euthanasia is sometimes the most humane resolution for an animal's well-being. It's a tough yet necessary decision made with the singular focus of upholding the animal's best interests. For this mare, freedom from pain was the best course of action.

Thank you to those who took the time to offer her small acts of kindness. Because of you, we increased her quality of life, even if just for a short time.

06/13/2024

Thank you The Homes for Horses Coalition for the scholarship to attend the Home for Horses Coalition Conference in Washington, DC in September. Led by the Animal Welfare Institute and American Wild Horse Conservation, this conference brings together equine welfare professionals to learn new skills and strategies to find homes for horses, keep horses in homes, engage and educate communities, and improve their organizations. It also includes a lobby day. The Homes for Horses Coalition is a national network of equine rescues and sanctuaries with over 500 members representing equine welfare in 48 states and multiple countries.

I cannot tell you how much this learning opportunity means not only to me but, more importantly, to the at-risk equines in our state. Education is key to creating change.

06/13/2024

# # # 🐴 Update on Abi's Road to Recovery! ✨ **graphic photos**

When Abi arrived, she was suffering from a severe foot injury that had caused her months of pain with every step. Abi’s prognosis was guarded but we continued to take small steps to improve her quality of life. Her journey thus far has been nothing short of miraculous.

Take a look at Abi's before and after photos to see her incredible transformation! Watching Abi walk comfortably is a powerful reminder of a horse's strength and resilience. 📸 Together, we've given her a second chance at a happy, healthy life. 💖🐎

06/08/2024

🌟 We are absolutely thrilled to announce that our beautiful senior horse, Tango, has found her forever home with our wonderful volunteer, Crystal! 🐴💕 It's so heartwarming to see these two come together and start a new chapter full of love and companionship. Congratulations to Tango and Crystal on this incredible journey! 🏡✨

06/05/2024

**🎉 Celebrating a Special Milestone at Horse & Halo! 🎉**

1.5 years ago, Horse & Halo embarked on an incredible mission to rescue 14 mishandled mares. After countless hours of effort, we finally brought these horses to safety. Since then, they've gone through various stages of training, with many finding loving homes and others receiving much-needed relief from years of pain.

One mare, Lady Jane, faced immense challenges. Her fear-based behaviors—biting, kicking, and snarking—made it difficult for any human to approach her. Lady Jane resisted all attempts at containment and bonding, evading every effort with remarkable determination.

Little did Lady Jane know that she met her match, Chris Fout was equally determined. Over the past year—YES, a full 12 months—Chris has worked tirelessly in an open pasture with other horses to earn Lady Jane's trust. Her patience, kindness, and unwavering dedication have finally paid off. Today, Lady Jane made a significant breakthrough—she allowed herself to be haltered for the first time.

We are incredibly proud of both Lady Jane and Chris. Their journey together, built on patience and trust, is truly inspiring. Thank you, Chris, for showing Lady Jane that humans can be her friends.

Here's to many more milestones ahead! 🐴❤️

06/02/2024

A huge shoutout to Sky Ranch Idaho for their generous donation of these amazing raffle baskets! Our event was a huge success, and these baskets added so much value. Thank you for your support and for helping us make a difference!