Merlin

Striking, Strong, Stately

Our Merlin is in his late twenties, almost 30 years old. A Thoroughbred cross, standing just about 17 hands [68 inches from ground to withers (top of shoulder)], Merlin has found safety and serenity at Phoenix Rising since 2005. Here, he is loved.

Merlin has a way about him that has always drawn everyone in, both two-legged and four-legged. His quiet mannerism, depth of soul, and wisdom, hold a very special place on the farm. He is fiercely loyal. For several years, he served as a leader to a small herd who also found themselves seeking peace and love at Phoenix Rising. The protection he offered his herd was beyond what anyone could have imagined. [Read more…]

Pepsi

Darling, Delightful, Devilish

Seized by local authorities due to neglect, Pepsi, who is now approximately 25 years old, arrived at our farm suffering from severely uncared for hooves and untreated Cushing disease. We worked tirelessly for a solid year, trying to restore his health. For months, he never emerged from his stall; he was too sore to stand and move around. When he did finally leave the comfort of the barn, it was to walk carefully and slowly to a soft spot where he could lie down. At times, we questioned whether we were making the best decision for Pepsi; we questioned whether or not we should continue. Pepsi showed us he wanted to go on, though. [Read more…]

Sierra

Sweet and Sassy

As 2016 began, a flashy, sabino paint mare, sporting ribbons from western style equestrian competitions, found herself in danger. At the young age of 15, years of performing had taken a toll. With a very advanced stage of arthritis that left her crippled, she was deemed of no real value and carried the label of disposable. She was sold as a broodmare where care was given to her only if absolutely necessary to keep the babies she was producing sound enough to bring in money. A caring person who could no longer be a witness to the neglect this horse was enduring finally intervened. This person cleared the way for us to open our gate to this big beauty, now known as SIERRA. [Read more…]

Tracey & Whitey

The Instigator & the Mystical Unicorn

It is not unusual to see a black and white streak race by at the farm. That black and white streak is Tracey [the instigator]. One of his favorite pastimes seems to be running figure eights around his paddock, kicking up his heels, sailing over an imaginary obstacle, and nipping his good buddy – Whitey [the mystical unicorn] – on the way by. Tracey is also fond of the phrase ‘Grass is always greener…’ He will take advantage of any chance he sees to break out of his paddock to find what he might be missing on the other side of the fence.

All of this occurs while Whitey, the mystical unicorn, stands by- observing, considering, wondering…With Whitey’s flowing white forelock, mane and tail, he looks like a mystical creature spreading love. Whitey promptly greets all who step foot on the farm; he announces the arrival of visitors and cons those visitors out of a treat or two. He is also Tracey’s silent partner in crime. [Read more…]