09/13/2026
Clyde's Rescue
People are always shocked that someone could simply abandon a horse. But it happens. Say hello to Clyde.
Clyde is about two years old. He appears to be gelded, but he isn’t branded. This was our first clue that he probably wasn't one of ours. The second clue? We were able to halter him and touch him all over without any trouble. Anyone who knows our free‑roaming equine friends knows that’s not happening with one of them.
A week ago, Clyde was spotted on the far north side of the ranch, walking in circles and looking confused. Volunteers Tami and Sean went out to check on him. He was slightly favoring his rear right leg but was putting full weight on it and his body condition was good. He also seemed unsure how to navigate the fencing. They gently routed him toward a nearby pond and hoped he’d be okay.
A week later, a lone horse was seen walking in circles on a property near the middle of the ranch, about half a mile from Lake Hattie.
It was Clyde again. Only now he was severely dehydrated, noticeably thinner, struggling with his vision, and having trouble supporting himself on his hind legs. His mouth could barely open. He tried to p*e, but nothing came out.
We launched an emergency intervention. Water and electrolytes first. Then hay and fortified grain. Volunteers quickly set up a corral to keep him safe until we could move him.
The property owners were great, giving us permission to drive across their parcel to help Clyde. So, the next day, our friend Dave brought his trailer and trusted horse George. Horses are herd animals, and another horse tends to calm them. Another friend with lots of experience handling horses helped load Clyde. After a short ride, he was safely in his own pen at the rescue barn with plenty of food and water.
There is some good news. After just a couple of days, Clyde is already improving. He’s sleeping a lot, eating well, and his p*e and p**p are back to normal. Next up, we will have our veterinarian evaluate him and help us address the rest of his health issues.
Clyde's story isn’t unusual, but it is heartbreaking. There is no guarantee that he will make it, but thanks to our volunteers, friends, and supporters, he now has a chance.
Tami Mac