2017 -
Early Years & The Auction
Kestrel’s story began at the Palomino Valley Prep Facility, where she was born in holding in 2017. Her early years in the system eventually led her to a precarious situation. In May of 2023, her luck turned when she was safely pulled from the Bowie, Texas livestock auction by a fellow rescue organization, giving her a second chance.
October 2023 -
Finding Rescue Ranchito
After feeling an undeniable connection with this curious and gentle mare, we officially brought Kestrel to Rescue Ranchito. Our initial hope was to begin her training to become a rideable partner. She settled in beautifully, quickly showing us her sweet, affectionate nature and establishing her perfect ground manners.
May 2024 -
A Difficult Detour
To continue her saddle work, Kestrel was sent to a trainer in Nevada. Unfortunately, the situation devolved; the trainer kept her for two years, using Kestrel as a personal horse while falling out of touch with our team. In May of 2026, we were abruptly contacted to come retrieve her due to a newly developed bucking problem. We immediately brought her home, and her experience served as a massive learning curve for us regarding how carefully we vet the trainers in our program.
Today -
Seeking a Soft Landing
After a thorough assessment by our current trusted trainer, it was determined that Kestrel’s bucking under saddle is unpredictable, making her suitable only for an advanced rider if she were to ever be ridden again. Because of this, we are officially offering her as a non-riding companion. With her stunning looks, impeccable manners, and "in your pocket" personality, Kestrel is ready to be the perfect, loving pasture mate for the right family. She gets along great with other horses, and has a particular affinity for burros.
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2017 -
Early Years & The Auction
Kestrel’s story began at the Palomino Valley Prep Facility, where she was born in holding in 2017. Her early years in the system eventually led her to a precarious situation. In May of 2023, her luck turned when she was safely pulled from the Bowie, Texas livestock auction by a fellow rescue organization, giving her a second chance.
May 2024 -
A Difficult Detour
To continue her saddle work, Kestrel was sent to a trainer in Nevada. Unfortunately, the situation devolved; the trainer kept her for two years, using Kestrel as a personal horse while falling out of touch with our team. In May of 2026, we were abruptly contacted to come retrieve her due to a newly developed bucking problem. We immediately brought her home, and her experience served as a massive learning curve for us regarding how carefully we vet the trainers in our program.
October 2023 -
Finding Rescue Ranchito
After feeling an undeniable connection with this curious and gentle mare, we officially brought Kestrel to Rescue Ranchito. Our initial hope was to begin her training to become a rideable partner. She settled in beautifully, quickly showing us her sweet, affectionate nature and establishing her perfect ground manners.
Today -
Seeking a Soft Landing
After a thorough assessment by our current trusted trainer, it was determined that Kestrel’s bucking under saddle is unpredictable, making her suitable only for an advanced rider if she were to ever be ridden again. Because of this, we are officially offering her as a non-riding companion. With her stunning looks, impeccable manners, and "in your pocket" personality, Kestrel is ready to be the perfect, loving pasture mate for the right family. She gets along great with other horses, and has a particular affinity for burros.
