top of page

Magazine Articles

Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure with Wild Horse Photo Safaris

  • Writer: Jen Rogers
    Jen Rogers
  • Sep 3, 2024
  • 4 min read

An image of Onaqui wild horses galloping in Western Utah
Memories of Onaqui Wild Horses Linger Long After the Photo Safari

Wild Horse Photo Safaris (www.wildhorsephotosafaris.com) is a labor of love and a offers unique, custom tailored, ecologically conscious photographic viewing experience through my business A Place In Time Photography, LLC (www.APlaceInTimePhotos.com).


My private year-round tours start and end in the small rural town of Tooele and can accommodate any photography skill level from novice or professionals. Even non-photographers who simply love horses and wildlife have raved it’s been one of the best experiences of their lives.  Tooele is very easy to access only a short 25 minute drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport.



By choosing to accompany me with Wild Horse Photo Safaris on range you are getting the advantage of a unique and customizable experience from someone whose life is entrenched the wild horses on a daily basis.  I've spent over 2,500 hours documenting the herd, the individual family members, their locations, patterns, hide outs and likes and dislikes.  This enables me to help my guests have the best experience possible during your tour. 


It also helps you to feel confident that our time with the wild horses is done in a way that is most at harmony with their location and comfort levels and with the intention of preserving their natural behaviors and surrounding ecological resources for years to come. 


While in Utah’s west desert, my guests will be provided with comprehensive information about the Onaqui herds, band structure and individual horses.  You'll learn their names, stories and what challenges they have had and may still face both on and off the range.  You'll also learn in real time about wild horse behavior and how to read their body language, mannerisms and interactions.


All of my photo safaris are private and limited to small groups traveling together to help ensure the best experience for you and for the Onaqui horses as well.  Tour lengths vary and range from 4 hours, 6 hours to sunrise/sunset per day and multi-day bookings can also be accommodated. 




Previous guests routinely rave about the undeniable spirit of the Onaqui wild mustangs and share that they can’t stop thinking about them long after returning home. 


·         Devona from Arizona shares “What a wonderful experience of light and joy with this wonderful lady.  She has devoted years with dedication and love … holding them in compassion for the rest of the world to witness.” 


·         Lisa from Arizona says “I can’t really find the words to express how my experience with the horses affected me.  It was amazing, breathtaking and soul stirring.  I absolutely fell in love with the Onaqui. They are so special. I fell in love because I was able to hear their stories, history, family dynamics, etc. from someone, Jen Rogers, who has a passion and love for these horses that can’t help but rub off.  It’s contagious.” 


·         John from Virginia shares “It exceeded our expectations.  We saw more wild horses than we could have imagined.  We were able to get close, but not disrupt them in any way.  We can’t say enough good things about our guide Jen.  She knows everything about the horses.  She knows them all by name, how old they are, which horses are in which small group and the behaviors of each horse.  Jen loves all of the horses and is a passionate advocate for them.  Thank you Jen for the experience of a lifetime and one of our best days ever.”


Conservation efforts, including photographic documentation, education and protection, have always been at the forefront of my mind even as a young girl.  I spent long hours near woods and streams learning to identify tracks and understand wildlife behavior.  This has carried me through the years as I traveled abroad exploring several countries where I loved volunteering time and photography skills at animal sanctuaries or private reserves.


A photograph of an affectionate moment between two Onaqui wild horses in Western Utah by Jennifer Rogers of Wild Horse Photo Safaris, providing year-round ethically based & environmentally friendly wild horse photography tours. equustyle.com
An affectionate moment between two Onaqui wild horses in Western Utah

My prior travels and interest in conservation set the foundation for me to start my own locally based 501c3 non-profit Red Birds Trust (redbirdstrust.org) to help preserve and protect the Onaqui wild horses both on and off the range.  Red Birds Trust has worked with various other wild horse advocates around the US to speak for the betterment of the care of the Onaqui wild horses, held numerous range clean up events, sanctuary spotlight events, and assisted in the placement of 150 Onaqui wild horses to date.  Many of these Onaqui we rescued have been bought from kill pens and were slated to be sent to slaughter after they were rounded up off the range and their placements with private owners fail them.











EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine thanks Jennifer Rogers of Wild Horse Photo Safaris for sharing an excellent article and her gorgeous photographs. As founder of the wild horse advocacy nonprofit Red Birds Trust, Jen Rogers dedication to educate the public about protecting and preserving America’s vanishing wild horses and, in particular the Onaqui wild mustangs, is immensely inspiring.


All images copyright Wild Horse Photo Safaris -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Jennifer Rodgers and Wild Horse Photo Safaris.


 
 

2,000 Pounds of Hope. 3 Broken Hearts. One Place Called Hope Reins.

  • Writer: Christy Burkey
    Christy Burkey
  • Sep 3, 2024
  • 4 min read

Annie a Percheron equine-therapy horse at Hope Reins in Raleigh, NC where hurting children find support, hope, healing.
Annie a Percheron equine-therapy horse at Hope Reins in Raleigh, NC.

When Aaron Guin texted his wife Amanda that he was ‘done,’ she didn’t know what he meant until she heard the police sirens. He’d been at home with another deep bout of depression, so she and her two young kids were staying nearby at her parent’s house until Daddy felt better.


But this time it was different. The beloved husband, doting father, 82nd Airborne Ranger, and neighborhood Mr. Fixit, lost his battle with the demons that haunted him since serving in the Gulf War. Aaron Guin, who could tinker with anything and make it work, sadly couldn’t repair his own life. He killed himself at his home on a Saturday evening. This is how life ended for Aaron Guin. But for Amanda, Garrett and Ashlyn, this is where their journey of hope and healing began.

Aaron’s suicide devastated the close-knit Guin family, especially Garrett, who spent every free moment glued to his father’s side, playing football, gardening and serving as his young handyman apprentice. Amanda tried desperately to reach her son, but his thoughts and feelings remained hidden behind a veil of detachment.


When a friend suggested the equine therapy program at Hope Reins, Amanda was skeptical. “I thought, really? Garrett’s going to open up to a horse?” But after their first session at Hope Reins, the 7-year-old seemed instinctively aware of his new 2,000 pound friend’s gentle strength and moved easily around the huge Percheron, a breed known for its mighty stature.


A photograph of a young boy leading a Percheron therapy horse named Abby at Hope Reins in Raleigh, NC that serves kids in life crisis through its 38-acre ranch, rescued horses, and restoration in Christ.
Garrett with Abby in 2015
It was a natural connection. The massive horse became Garrett’s confidant – one who could shoulder the weight of his darkest pain without ever divulging a word. He would talk and Abby listened.

Session after session, Amanda watched in wonder as Garrett would brush, walk and then ride Abby bareback through the green pastures at Hope Reins – beaming with pride and accomplishment.


His caring session leader, Karen, who remained a comfortable distance away, would watch in amazement, too, as God’s handiwork helped create a bond of love, trust and openness just when it was needed most for a lost little boy deeply missing his best friend. “I can’t even put into words how good it makes a mom feel that a horse can do a job that I can’t,” says Amanda.


A photograph of the Guin Family, Ashlyn, Amanda and Garret who benefited greatly from Hope Reins in Raleigh, NC during a crisis.
The Guin Family, Ashlyn, Amanda and Garrett

It’s been almost eight years since the Guin family first contacted Hope Reins. And a lot has happened since then. Garrett’s sweet equine mentor, Abby, passed away in 2018 from severe colic. He’s now a strapping 5 foot 10 inch high school junior who loves basketball.


His sister, Ashlyn, forged her own path over the years as an accomplished equestrian at the ranch finding great solace in Shiloh, a beautiful white pony. She and Garrett both volunteered in Hope Reins’ Kids Give Back, where they provided leadership to young program participants and learned how to apply these skills in their own lives as well.


Amanda took her pain and started volunteering at TAPS (Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors) to help other military widows struggling with the death of a loved one. Her passion for the cause formed a conduit between TAPS and Hope Reins by aligning both nonprofits so other families like hers could be helped through equine therapy. TAPS has been a cherished partner of Hope Reins.


“I could have never made it through Aaron’s suicide without Hope Reins.”


“Pain is the ultimate equalizer,” says Amanda. “No one is immune from experiencing a crisis in their lives like we did. But I thank God for Hope Reins.”


For more information about Hope Reins or to make a donation: www.hopereins.org.





This beautifully animated short video gives an overview of how Hope Reins helps children and horses with wounded hearts find healing.











Author Jennifer Marshall's book about a blind Appaloosa horse named Joey who was rescued by Kim Tschirret and brought to Hope Reins in North Carolina.
Joey: How a blind rescue horse helped others to see

Editors Note: Several years ago I discovered the life-changing work of Hope Reins after reading the book Joey: How a blind rescue horse helped others learn to see .


This heartwarming true story about an Appaloosa named Joey who was rescued by Kim Tschirret and brought to Hope Reins deeply touched my heart. Author Jennifer Marshall Bleakley's book is beautifully written and shares the love, dedication, and deep commitment of everyone who supports Hope Reins vital ministry to provide faith-based mentorship programs for kids in crisis with the aid of rescued horses. Even a blind rescue horse named Joey has awakened hearts, offering hope and healing.


EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine is greatly honored to feature the remarkable work of Hope Reins.




EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine thanks Christy Burkey, Director of Marketing and Communications at Hope Reins in North Carolina, for sharing a beautiful story with her excellent wordsmithing, photographs and video. Our sincere thanks to Founder and CEO Kim Tschirret, the staff, volunteers, and board members for using their time, talents, and energy to provide "true hope and real healing" for kids in crisis. A special thanks to the rescued horses for their resilience and generous spirits.


All images copyright Hope Reins -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Hope Reins.



 
 

Colorado Horse Rescue: 
Making Strides in Equine Welfare


  • Writer: Megan Goheen
    Megan Goheen
  • Jun 1, 2024
  • 4 min read

Updated: Jan 14


A photograph of galloping rescue horses in a pasture at Colorado Horse Rescue in Longmont, Colorado
Happy horses gallop in a pasture at Colorado Horse Rescue in Longmont, Colorado

In the heart of Colorado, nestled amidst the mountains and sprawling landscapes, exists a haven for creatures that embody grace, strength, and companionship: horses. Since 1986, Colorado Horse Rescue (CHR) has been a place of hope, tirelessly working to build a brighter future for horses in need.


CHR's mission is as simple as it is profound: to create safe solutions for every horse, regardless of their past or present circumstances. As a 501(c)(3) impact organization, CHR operates with a clear vision, fueled by passion and dedication.


A photograph of two horses at Colorado Horse Rescue in Longmont, Colorado
Patrick and Mac sharing a moment

Horses from all walks of life find refuge when they enter through CHR’s gate. From private owners seeking responsible rehoming to horses rescued from dire situations, CHR welcomes all those in need. These horses often come with unique challenges, be it medical issues or behavioral complexities. Within the embrace of CHR's dedicated team of equine professionals, each horse is given a chance to heal, grow, and thrive.


On a sprawling 50-acre property, CHR operates at full capacity, providing industry-leading care to 60 horses every day. For CHR, the journey extends to rehabilitation, rehoming, and beyond, as they continue to advocate for the welfare of horses everywhere.



COLORADO HORSE RESCUE -WHO WE ARE




CHR TAKES THE REINS OF THE ANNIE PROJECT, ADVANCING ITS MISSION


Horses at dude and guest ranches create unforgettable memories, yet their retirement often leads to uncertain fates at auctions, risking falling into the slaughter pipeline. To offer a compassionate alternative, The Annie Project was established in 2017 by Drifter’s Hearts of Hope Horse Rescue, C Lazy U Ranch, and The Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch Association. This initiative provides retiring ranch horses a chance at new beginnings through reputable rescues.


A photograph of horse that was discovered at a livestock auction and became the inspiration for The Annie Project to take care of horses after their retirement.
Gentle horse Annie inspired The Annie Project

The Annie Project was inspired by Annie, a gentle horse from C Lazy U Ranch, discovered in a livestock auction by Drifter’s Hearts of Hope. Annie’s rescue sparked a transformative movement, prompting C Lazy U Ranch to reflect on their responsibility towards their horses’ well-being, even after retirement. Initially nurtured by Drifter’s Hearts of Hope, the project has now been entrusted to Colorado Horse Rescue (CHR) to expand its mission.


C Lazy U Ranch remains a supporter of The Annie Project. In fact, they have partnered with Locke + Co Distilling to craft a limited-edition Aspen Aged Rye whiskey. Each bottle sold at the ranch supports Colorado Horse Rescue, honoring Annie’s legacy and funding the care of retired ranch horses like Annie. 


The Annie Project is a heartwarming testament to compassion and collaboration, ensuring a brighter future for horses by granting these animals the dignified retirement they so richly deserve.




Come experience the magic of Colorado Horse Rescue yourself on Saturday, September 21, 2024! As the sun sets over the Colorado horizon, CHR invites you to join them for Mane Event, a celebration of fellowship, fun, and impact.


Set against the backdrop of their picturesque property in Longmont, Mane Event promises an evening of joy and purpose, where guests can experience the CHR mission firsthand. It's an opportunity to become part of a vision-driven community, united in their dedication to making a difference in the lives of horses, today and for generations to come.








There are many ways to join CHR in their mission. Volunteers are essential to the organization, contributing their time and skills to support various aspects of their operation. From barn chores to administrative tasks, every pair of hands makes a difference.


For those unable to volunteer, donating offers another avenue of support. Whether through financial contributions, legacy planning, or heartfelt gifts, every donation fuels CHR's efforts to serve more horses and make a lasting impact.


A photograph of two equine volunteers at Colorado Horse Rescue in Longmont, Colorado
Volunteers making a difference at Colorado Horse Rescue

Businesses, too, can play a vital role in supporting CHR's mission through sponsorship. By aligning with CHR, businesses not only demonstrate their commitment to corporate social responsibility but also gain valuable exposure within the community. It's a partnership that benefits both parties while advancing the cause of equine welfare.




A photograph of HorseAlert which is a free emergency response tool from Colorado Horse Rescue
HorseAlert is a FREE emergency response tool

In keeping with their commitment to serving not only the horses within their gates but also the broader equine community, CHR introduces HorseAlert.


As wildfires increasingly threaten Colorado and beyond, CHR founded HorseAlert after witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of natural disasters on the equine community. Often, horse owners lack trailers, and many facilities have more horses than they can transport during evacuations.

 

HorseAlert, a FREE emergency response tool, connects those needing to evacuate horses with willing volunteers. Just like popular rideshare applications, HorseAlert matches individuals in need with those ready to assist. Join CHR in its mission to safeguard the lives of horses, their caregivers, and fellow evacuees during times of crisis.


Visit HorseAlert.org for more information, to register your horses, and to volunteer as a driver.




Colorado Horse Rescue remains a steadfast ally for horses in need, driven by compassion and commitment. With innovative solutions and the unwavering support of the community, it continues to create safe solutions for horses in need. Join CHR’s mission, as together, strides are made towards a world where all horses know safety, healing, and love.











EquuStyle Art & Travel magazine thanks Megan Goheen, Marketing Associate, Colorado Horse Rescue for writing an excellent article and sharing photographs and videos. Our sincere thanks to the staff, volunteers, and board members for using their time, talents, and energy to "build a better world for horses, one life at at time" .


All images Copyright Colorado Horse Rescue -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Colorado Horse Rescue.


 
 
bottom of page