Skydog Ranch A Sanctuary of Hope for Rescued Wild Horses and Burros in Oregon

A band of rescued horses trot through the vast natural landscape at the 9,000-acre Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary.

The fate of wild horses and burros in the United States remains a pressing concern for animal advocates. Thousands of these majestic creatures face the threat of slaughter after being rounded up from public lands or sold at auctions. Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary in Oregon offers a beacon of hope for rescued wild horses, providing a safe haven where they can heal, roam freely, and live with their families once again.

Three rescued burros stand in a flower-filled meadow at Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary.

The Crisis Facing Wild Horses and Burros

Each year, thousands of wild horses and burros are removed from their natural habitats by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These roundups involve chasing the animals with helicopters into crowded pens, causing severe stress and injuries. Some horses break their necks trying to escape or reunite with their families. After capture, many end up in holding facilities with limited resources, and some are sold to slaughterhouses in Mexico or Canada despite widespread public opposition.

A 2022 poll by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) found that 83 percent of Americans oppose the slaughter of U.S. horses for meat. The opposition spans all political parties, including 88% of Democrats and 78% of Republicans, according to testimony regarding the poll results from House.gov.

The ASPCA used these results to advocate for the Save America’s Forgotten Equines (SAFE) Act, a federal bill aimed at permanently banning horse slaughter in the U.S. and ending the export of American horses for slaughter abroad.

"West Douglas" is an image of the ongoing helicopter roundups of America's wild horses and burros by Scott Wilson. Learn more today at https://www.photoadvocacy.org/about

Yet, inhumane roundups of wild horses and burros continue. As of 2024, the BLM reports over 66,000 wild horses and burros in holding facilities, highlighting the urgent need for compassionate solutions.

In Colorado alone, the 2026 roundup program targets 1,111 free-roaming wild horses to be removed. And, in nine western states the Bureau of Land Management will remove 14,378 wild horses and corral them in overcrowded holding pens.

Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary’s Mission

Spanning 9,000 acres in Oregon, Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary is a Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries accredited organization dedicated to rescuing wild horses and burros from kill pens and auctions. The sanctuary’s mission focuses on restoring the health, safety, and freedom of these animals while raising awareness about the challenges they face.

The sanctuary is home to approximately 300 equines, many of whom were separated from their families during BLM roundups. Skydog Ranch works to reunite these equine families, allowing them to live naturally in bands as they would in the wild. This approach supports the animals’ emotional well-being and helps rebuild the social bonds critical to their survival.

Rescued horses graze and drink from a watering hole in the natural landscape at Skydog

Two rescued horses interact, standing nose to nose in a natural environment during winter at Skydog

Life at Skydog Ranch

At Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary, rescued wild horses enjoy vast open spaces where they can roam freely across the property. The sanctuary is divided into seven main herds, each living in a natural environment that mimics their native habitat. While some equines require special care in rehabilitation facilities, most thrive in the sanctuary’s expansive pastures.

The sanctuary’s team provides ongoing medical care, nutrition, and enrichment to support the animals’ recovery and long-term health. By offering a safe and nurturing environment, Skydog Ranch helps these formerly wild horses and burros regain their strength and spirit.

A group of curious rescued horses living in freedom at Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary gaze into the camera.

Raising Awareness Through Compassion and Change

Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary is more than a refuge; it is a platform for education and advocacy. The sanctuary uses PhotoAdvocacy to share powerful images and stories that highlight the plight of wild horses and the need for humane treatment. These visual narratives inspire compassion and motivate people to support change.

By connecting the public with the realities faced by wild horses, Skydog Ranch encourages informed action. Advocates can help by spreading awareness, supporting rescue efforts, and urging policymakers to find sustainable solutions that protect wild equines from slaughter and neglect.

A rescued adult horse and foal gaze into the camera from their open, natural environment at Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary.

How You Can Help

Supporting sanctuaries like Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary is vital for the future of rescued wild horses. Here are ways advocates can make a difference:

• Donate to organizations that provide care and rehabilitation for wild horses and burros.

• Volunteer at local sanctuaries or participate in advocacy campaigns.

• Educate others about the challenges wild horses face and the importance of humane treatment.

• Advocate for policies that protect wild horses from slaughter and improve management practices.

  
  

Ultimately, every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger vision of a world where wild horses and burros can live without fear of extinction or displacement. By fostering a culture of respect and stewardship for these incredible animals, we can create a legacy of compassion and responsibility that honors their place in our ecosystems. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, we can work together to ensure that wild horses not only survive but flourish in the wild, embodying the freedom and majesty that they represent.

Skydog Ranch and Sanctuary

Learn a little about Clare Staples, Founder and President of Skydog Sanctuary, who is featured in this video by The Dodo published on YouTube on Nov. 3, 2024. "These horse rescues will make you believe in miracles. When a family of wild horses got captured and separated, one woman dedicated her life to tracking each one down so they could be free together again."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaOca4lzdaw

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All images Copyright Scott Wilson and © PhotoAdvocacy-all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Scott Wilson and © PhotoAdvocacy

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Mastering the Art of Light in Fine Equine Photography with Tony Stromberg

A rare interview with one of the world's top fine art equine photographers.

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"Unicorn" is a dramatic image of a Lusitano stallion taken in southern France.

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?

I grew up all over the west. My dad was a geologist for an oil company, and we moved constantly. 18 homes by the time I was 18. Very nomadic lifestyle, which is probably why I relate so well to the American wild horses… nomadic by nature. Because of all the moving, I became a loner at a pretty

early age. I am sure this has affected my work in many ways. I work best alone. In fact, when I was doing advertising photography, I would go back into the studio after everyone went home at night, and that’s usually when I did my best work. I get distracted when other people are watching and expecting me to perform, to the point where I can’t really focus.

"3 Brothers" captures Merens breed horses running in a pasture in the Pyrenees region of southern France.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

That’s a hard one. There are not specific artists or photographers that I get inspiration from. Rather, I think it is an accumulation of everything I have seen, read, or heard throughout my life that has informed my artistic sensibilities. I also get a lot of inspiration from nature, and being

immersed in nature. I think all good art imitates nature in some way. We live in a very technical world and spend an inordinate amount of time in front of a computer screen or a phone. I think all the technology dampens creativity, and sometimes the best way to connect with our creative self is to unplug from all the technology and sit in silence so we can actually hear ourselves.

"3 Stallions" is an exquisite image of three young stallions in Spain.

How has your style changed over time?

It’s always a process. When I started doing advertising work, I was all over the map. I did fashion, food, technology, architecture, still life, catalog work, special effects, landscapes, because I didn’t really know who I was and had not defined my creative voice yet. I experimented a lot. I am completely self-trained in photography, and never went to school. I tried by doing, and by making a lot of mistakes, and learning what NOT to do. Over time, my personal style developed, but it took 20 years to find that. I spent years emulating the popular photographers, only to realize this was not me, and it was not coming from within. What I ultimately came to learn was that I had a deep appreciation for lighting.

"Luminous" is an image that perfectly illustrates the goal of photographing "the light falling onto the horse"

When I teach workshops, I tell people that they are not photographing a horse, they are photographing the light falling onto the horse. It takes a fundamental shift in understanding to really grasp that concept, but it is all about lighting. Photographers start with a black canvas, and we add light. We literally “paint” with light. After 20 years of studio photography, I learned how to “see” light. I am always looking for the light, so to speak. After I shifted my focus to horses, I realized I could take 20 years of experience in lighting and apply it to something I truly loved.

When is your favorite time of day to photograph horses?

Late afternoon, for sure. Magic hour. The last hour of sunlight is the best. In fact, in that late afternoon light, it is hard to take a “bad” photograph.

What motivates you to continue photographing horses?

I just love horses. I was burned out after 20 years of advertising work. I had lost myself after trying to be so many things and trying to please so many people. It’s a long story for another time, but when I started spending time with horses, they showed me a way back to my authentic self, and that was a huge gift to me. My work, I believe, continues to be an “homage: to the horse". I showed my true self to the horses, and in return, they shared with me their true essence, and that is what I try to convey through my work.

How do you define success as a fine art equine photographer?

When I was doing commercial work, it was constant marketing and it always felt like pushing a boulder uphill. When I started working with horses and started building a body of work with my equine photography, doors would open in front of me without much effort. The sense of struggle was gone. The 4 books I have published all came with little effort. When I started teaching workshops, I created them and people signed up, and it’s been going strong even efter 20 years of doing them. I think “success” is being able to do what you love and also make a living at it, without having to commercialize it or change it to fit someone else’s desire. I have a dream job. I travel the world photographing some of the world’s most beautiful horses, in some very beautiful places, and I get paid for it !!!

What have critics and collectors said about your work?

That’s an odd question. People that collect my work do so because it speaks to them on some level, and they love the work. I don’t think I have any critics, and if I do, I don’t really care what they think. At one point in my life, I would do whatever I could to please them, but not anymore. I know who I am, and I know my work has value. If someone does not like it, they do not have to look at it!

Why do you offer workshops and how do you benefit or find meaning from sharing your artistic mastery with other aspiring equine photographers?

After my first book was published, along with calendars, people started to ask me if I would do workshops, so I thought “why not”. I started doing a few in my hometown of Santa Fe, and it just grew from there. I am happy to share my photographic experience. It gives me joy to see people learning what I have to offer them, and I love to watch them grow artistically, and to find their own voice with their equine photography. They come to me because we all have a shared love of horses and photography and want to share our vision with the world. What’s not to like?

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To learn more about upcoming workshops with Tony Stromberg click on the button below. And, be sure to visit Tony Stromberg's website and follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

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This article was originally published in the premiere Winter 2023 issue of EquuStyle Magazine. All images Copyright Tony Stromberg Photography -all rights reserved. Cannot be reproduced for any purpose without permission from Tony Stromberg Photography.

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Horses for Mental Health Campaign Expands Access to Mental Health Services with Horses

Horses for Mental Health collaborates with nonprofits to expand access to equine-assisted services

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The Horses for Mental Health Campaign (formerly Seen Through Horses Campaign) is about collective visibility, shared momentum, and expanding access to mental health services incorporating horses. For 31 days each May, Mental Health Awareness Month, Horses for Mental Health brings together programs nationwide to increase awareness, raise funding, and advocate for the integration of horses in mental health care and personal growth services.

The Horses for Mental Health Campaign Initiative

The campaign unites individuals, nonprofits, mental health professionals, celebrities, influencers, and businesses to create a cohesive community, empower nonprofits, and share impactful stories of healing and transformation through the horse-human connection.

Focus on Collective Visibility

The Horses for Mental Health campaign is dedicated to enhancing collective awareness regarding the profound benefits of equine-assisted mental health services within various communities and among potential donors. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between the therapeutic potential of working with horses and the individuals who could greatly benefit from such services.

Shared Momentum Across Communities

Collaboration with local mental health organizations, equine therapy practitioners, and community leaders is emphasized in each annual campaign. By forming partnerships, the campaign can amplify its message and reach a wider audience, ensuring that the information about these services is disseminated effectively. This collaborative approach not only enhances the credibility of the campaign but also fosters a sense of community involvement and support.

Expanding Access to Mental Health Services with Horses

Equine-assisted therapy has emerged as a transformative approach in mental health treatment, utilizing the unique bond between humans and horses to foster emotional healing and personal growth. By promoting this innovative therapy, the campaign seeks to educate communities about the various mental health challenges that can be addressed through equine interactions, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.

To achieve this goal, the campaign employs a multi-faceted strategy that includes community outreach programs, educational workshops, and engaging storytelling. These efforts are designed to inform individuals about how equine-assisted therapy works, the science behind its effectiveness, and the personal stories of those who have experienced life-changing results. By showcasing real-life testimonials and success stories, Horses for Mental health aims to create a relatable narrative that resonates with both potential clients and donors.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSILrEtZXsA

Supporting Mental Health in Rural Communities

Ways to Support the Campaign

Individuals globally are experiencing anxiety, trauma, stress, burnout, and a sense of disconnection. Horses provide a strong, grounding presence that enables people to feel acknowledged, balanced, and supported.

Worldwide, licensed therapists and trained facilitators partner with horses to assist individuals and families in improving their mental health.

Your support ensures more people can access these life-changing services. Every role — partner, ambassador, donor, sponsor — moves this mission forward. Below are four meaningful ways to get involved:

1. Advocate for Life-changing Programs

Help turn awareness into action by sharing the campaign with your friends, family, colleagues, and community on your social media accounts with a link to Horses for Mental Health's Campaign page.

2. Become a Fundraising Ambassador

Choose a specific Program Partner you care about and create your own fundraising page in support of their work.

3. Donate Directly

Select a Program Partner and donate securely on their campaign page. Every dollar raised directly supports local programs transforming lives in their communities. Participating organizations keep 100% of the funds they raise, so the impact stays where it’s needed most.

4. Become a Campaign Sponsor

Sponsors help power the campaign’s reach and infrastructure while aligning your brand with mental health, community well-being, and horses. To explore sponsorship opportunities, contact: Tyler Brklacich, Executive Director tyler@horsesformentalhealth.org

This is More Than Awareness. It's a Global Movement.

• Your support expands access to mental health and well-being services with horses

• Programs keep 100% of the funds they raise

• Every participating organization is vetted for safety, professionalism, and impact

• Your action stays local and strengthens community-based mental health care

When you participate, you’re not just giving. You’re changing lives.

Support the 2026 Campaign

Visit Website

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EquuStyle Art & Advocacy Magazine is proud to support the May 2026 Horses for Mental Health Campaign, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month. Please share the link to this article and consider ways you can support the Horses for Mental Health Campaign.

Special thanks to Tyler Brklacich Co-Founder & Executive Director of Horses for Mental Health, Lynn Thomas, Co-Founder & President, and Jacque Baumer, Co-Founder/Vice-President. The YouTube video is protected by copyright Horses for Mental Health and Zoetis Equine-all rights reserved.

#horsesformentalhealth #horsesformentalhealthcampaign  #equinetherapy #mentalhealthawrenessmonth #horseshelpingpeople #veterans #zoetisequine #therapyhorses #equustyle #equustylemagazine