Tails From the Barn Blog
A few weeks ago I had a really fun experience at the farm, and I’m dying to share. I helped our Director of Programs, Katherine, with a tour she was giving to seven women who had gotten away from their work lives to spend time together in the Hudson Valley. The women, renting an Airbnb as their homebase, had already been to a farmers’ market and were planning dinner at a local pub. They were so happy to be with one another and to be on the farm with the most stunning scenery around them. And they were so eager to learn about the rescue and to interact with our herd members, who, in true form, did not disappoint.
Katherine began the tour with important facts about 13 Hands–our history, our mission, our physical size and herd size–and fielded questions about where the rescues come from. I was glad to have the chance to be reminded of all of this information and to fill in some gaps in my own knowledge. For example, I knew that when someone adopts a rescue from 13 Hands, that adoption comes with a lifetime “give back” clause in case the adoption is not a good fit. What I didn’t know is that if an adoptive owner passes away–because the death of an animal’s human can be so traumatic for the animal–13 Hands will welcome the rescue back to the farm, along with the rescue’s companions. Wow.
Katherine started the tour in the barn where she introduced the group to Classic, Emily, and Cleo, who ate up the attention and the comments about how big and beautiful she is. We then made our way outside to various paddocks. So many of our herd members saw this as an opportunity for ear scratches, nose rubs, and infectious good will, which our visitors delivered enthusiastically. Sherlock, Rascal, and Leo couldn’t stick their noses through the fence far enough. Darla and Regalo were sweet and gentle as ever. Reno totally lived up to his reputation as one of the farm’s lovebugs, and he followed the group down the fenceline, making sure he introduced himself to each visitor. Dunkin did the same in his pen, touting the fine attributes of befriending a mini donkey. I could go on and on: Ethan and Vinnie; Indigo; the zebras; Eclipse and Dash; Misty; Memo and Lorenzo. Each and every herd member our visitors met soaked up the affection they had to offer. If I had to guess, I’d say for some of the women, the highlight of the tour came at the end when Big Mac’s dashing presence and goofball maneuvers made it nearly impossible to leave. He was regal as ever, and also ridiculously playful. (Try taking a group selfie with a giant black horse who asks for more face rubs by nibbling on your shoulders.)
It was so rewarding to be part of this experience. The rescues soaked up the affection the women showered on them, and in turn, they seemed to give their visitors what they came for–an experience they’re not likely to forget.
If you haven’t already, please call to make an appointment for a tour. Here’s what you can expect:
You’ll speak to someone who is as happy as you are to make this connection.
You’ll be asked for a donation. The amount will depend on the size of your group, as well as the duration and scope of your tour.
You’ll be asked to sign a liability waiver (mandatory) and a release for photos on social media (optional).
For the best experience possible, wear comfortable clothing and bring your own water and snacks. Most importantly, bring your curiosity (the more questions, the better) and your eagerness to interact with very special equines.
On behalf of the staff AND the rescues, we’ll be so excited to have you with us.
See you soon,
Karen
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