Horses can help us to connect with the natural world and the beauty that surrounds us.
— Jane Goodall
Shilo’s Herd…
The presence of Blissful Heart’s horses here at Broken Arrow Ranch is anything but passive. Through rotational grazing, these horses are playing a direct and vital role in healing the land. Their hooves aerate compacted soil, their manure returns micronutrients to the earth, and their movement patterns mimic the native grazing behavior that shaped these high desert landscapes for thousands of years. This herd of healing-hooves are actively restoring the land alongside human hands and hearts.
Learn about the ranch’s Regenerative Land Initiative here
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BLM Mustang Mare
Beauty embodies the spirit of resilience. She arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary on the Summer Solstice of 2022, a turning point not just in the seasons but in her life. At her side was her young colt, Jupiter—a testament to her unwavering strength as a mother even in the face of hardship.
Rescued from the Oklahoma kill pens with the help of Retta Risley, Beauty’s journey was one of struggle and survival. When she was found, she was in poor health—frightened, fiery, and dangerously underweight. The long transport from Oklahoma to Oregon was anything but easy, but Beauty endured, carrying the weight of her past with silent determination.
Since arriving at the sanctuary, she has transformed. Gaining over 150 pounds, she has reclaimed her vitality, her dignity, and her place as the Matriarch of her herd. While she still keeps a respectful buffer between herself and humans, she has found moments of connection—particularly during essential oil sessions, where she steps forward to receive the soothing aromatic support of marjoram.
Black Beauty’s journey is one of perseverance, a reminder that healing takes time, trust is earned, and even the most wounded souls can find their way back to strength. As Matriarch, she leads with wisdom, quiet confidence, and a deep, unwavering presence—holding space for her herd with a fierce yet gentle heart.
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Unbranded Mustang Gelding
Jupiter Unbranded Mustang Gelding Jupiter is a bright spark of possibility—a playful, curious, and adventurous soul who embodies the energy of vision, inspiration, and boundless potential. Born in March 2022, he arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary on Summer Solstice 2022, alongside his mother, Black Beauty. From the moment he stepped onto the land, his energetic, joyful spirit was undeniable.
A dark bay with a star and two white socks, Jupiter has always had a magnetic presence. When he first arrived, he clung to his mother like Velcro, his world small and centered around her. But as he grew, so did his confidence and independence. Now, he is a bold explorer, always eager to interact with his herd, investigate new experiences, and inspire movement—both in the physical world and in the realm of ideas.
As a Visioner, Jupiter holds a unique role in the sanctuary. He channels possibility, reminding us that life is meant to be approached with wonder and curiosity. He sees beyond the present moment, sparking new perspectives, fresh energy, and creative inspiration for both horses and humans alike. Whether he’s initiating a playful gallop through the pasture or engaging with a visitor in a moment of unexpected connection, Jupiter’s presence is an invitation to dream bigger, reach further, and embrace the unknown with joy.
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Quarter Horse Mare
Bree moves through the world with quiet presence and deep sensitivity, mirroring the energy around her with gentle awareness. As Broken Arrow’s first official rescue, she arrived in June 2022, carrying the weight of a painful past—both physically and emotionally.
Upon arrival, Bree was severely emaciated with a body condition score of two. The Broken Arrow team implemented a structured refeeding program, gradually restoring her strength through carefully managed nutrition. Over time, she has gained over 150 pounds, reaching a healthy body condition score of six.
Though her physical healing has been remarkable, Bree’s journey is still unfolding. She remains hand-shy, the echoes of past trauma lingering in her cautious movements. Yet, she is learning to trust—not through force, but through quiet, shared moments where connection is offered without expectation. She allows touch in spaces of stillness, where trust is built through presence rather than pressure.
As a Reflector, Bree embodies the sensitivity of a soul deeply attuned to its surroundings. She mirrors emotions, offering those in her presence an opportunity to see themselves more clearly. She is a reminder to slow down, to meet others where they are, and to find healing in simply being seen and understood.
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John Mule
Cravin is a strong-willed and attentive mule, naturally inclined to watch over his herd and maintain order. His intelligence and steady presence make him a trusted guardian within Beauty’s Herd at Broken Arrow Ranch.
Cravin’s journey to the sanctuary was a testament to both his survival instincts and the urgency of rescue efforts. While at the kill pen, he and Flora were turned out to pasture, where they escaped to a remote field and remained undetected for several months. When workers finally discovered them, they were deemed too much trouble to keep any longer. With no time to process or evaluate them, Cravin and Flora were scheduled for immediate shipment to Mexico, along with two other mules, Benson and Milly. With less than 24 hours before departure, Retta Risley reached out to Broken Arrow, knowing there was little time to act. Given the urgency, Cravin and the others were transported to safety without the usual intake inspections, ensuring they made it out before they could be loaded onto a slaughter truck. He arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary in August 2022.
Since settling in, Cravin has emerged as the most dominant mule in Beauty’s Herd, maintaining structure and keeping a keen eye on his surroundings. His confidence is evident in how he interacts with both horses and mules, and he has a particular affinity for the female members of the herd, earning him the title of "ladies' man." While still somewhat reserved around people, he will accept hand treats, showing that trust is something he evaluates on his own terms.
As a Protector, Cravin brings stability, awareness, and quiet leadership to his herd. He is always alert, ensuring the well-being of those around him, not through aggression but through presence and decisiveness. His role highlights the importance of strength paired with reliability, a balance that allows his herd to move confidently under his watch.
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Quarter Horse Mare
Bella is a domestic, chestnut mare saved from the Oklahoma kill pens. Blissful Heart coordinated with Retta Risley who is always our expert when dealing with this location. Blissful heart was advised that Bella came with a horrible case of worms. She was underweight with a body score of only two! Bella was pregnant as well! Sadly it is common practice to impregnate horses prior to sale. Since horses are sold to be slaughtered for consumption, dubious sellers are paid by the pound. Post birth of her foal, Bella had to be slowly dewormed as the medication is strong. Bella continues to gain weight as she regains her health after quite an ordeal!
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BLM Mustang Gelding
Shiloh carries the quiet strength of a guardian, standing watch with a steady presence that brings peace to those around him. A beautiful bay with a striking blaze, he arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary in June 2022 alongside his companion, Ringo, after being rescued from a private owner. As the sanctuary’s very first residents, their presence marked the beginning of a new chapter—not just for them, but for the land and the mission of Broken Arrow itself.
Both were unhandled, wild mustangs—untouched by human hands yet deeply connected to the wisdom of the herd. At first, Shiloh moved cautiously in his new surroundings, but as time passed, something remarkable happened—his instincts awakened. He and Ringo no longer wandered aimlessly; instead, they sought to form herds of their own. Nature’s call was undeniable. Shiloh found his family in Black Beauty and her young colt, Jupiter, embracing his role as protector and guide. Ringo, in turn, bonded instantly with domestic mares Bree and Shasta, forming a family of his own.
For a time, the two herds lived in separate pastures, yet every morning, they greeted each other across the fence—two bands, connected yet distinct. As trust deepened and relationships solidified, they were reunited, now thriving as interconnected bands within Beauty’s herd. Their story is a testament to the sanctuary’s mission: to restore instinctual behaviors, allowing horses to heal, reconnect, and reclaim their natural bonds.
As the Sentry, Shiloh embodies watchfulness, balance, and the deep wisdom of knowing when to step forward and when to simply hold space. He offers a calming presence to his herd, sensing shifts in energy and ensuring that those in his care feel safe and seen.
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BLM Mustang Gelding
Ringo carries himself with the quiet authority of a leader, a regal and wise presence that commands respect without demand. A striking sorrel gelding, he holds the role of Guardian of the Herd, a steady and watchful protector who ensures harmony within his family.
His journey to Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary was guided by care and destiny. Clare Staples, founder of Skydog Sanctuary, reached out on behalf of two older mustangs whose original adopters—now in their 80s—could no longer care for them. Skydog stepped in, transporting the pair from Burns, Oregon, and delivering them directly to Broken Arrow in June 2022. Though not our first official rescues, Ringo and Shiloh were the first horses to set foot on the land, a fitting arrival for one who would grow to embody the role of guardian and protector.
From the beginning, Ringo exuded strength and quiet wisdom. He instinctively formed his own herd, gathering five mares around him, offering them safety and leadership. Over time, as trust deepened and bonds solidified, Ringo’s herd integrated into Beauty’s herd, becoming part of a larger family that moves together as one.
Ringo’s presence is captivating—he stands with grace and purpose, sensing every shift in the herd’s energy. He is not reactive, but responsive—an anchor of protection, stability, and deep knowing. As Guardian of the Herd, he teaches us about honoring responsibility, leading with presence, and holding space for those in our care.
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Quarter Horse Mare
Shasta carries the wisdom of experience, a patient and nurturing presence who leads not by force, but through quiet guidance. A beautiful Pinto mare, she arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary in June 2022, bringing with her a lifetime of knowledge and understanding.
When we rescued Hope from the kill pen, she was not producing milk for her foal. In an effort to support the filly, the quarantine facility offered Shasta as a potential nurse mare. Sadly, the foal passed due to health complications before Shasta began producing milk. Recognizing Shasta’s value and the need for her to have a safe and stable future, Broken Arrow agreed to give her a lifelong home.
While her status as an Elder contributes to her role, it is her many life experiences that makes her a true Mentor. Shasta possesses an innate ability to guide and support those around her, offering stability, reassurance, and quiet leadership. She moves through the herd with confidence and care, teaching through presence rather than dominance. Whether offering comfort to a nervous horse or reinforcing boundaries with a firm yet gentle approach, Shasta embodies the wisdom of time and the power of intuitive guidance.
As a Mentor, she teaches not only her fellow horses but the humans who come into her presence. She reminds us that true leadership is rooted in patience, understanding, and the ability to nurture others through life’s transitions.
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John Mule
Benson is a big personality in a small package, a mule with confidence, curiosity, and a knack for doing things his own way. He was among four mules—Milly, Flora, Cravin, and himself—rescued from a kill pen with less than 24 hours before departure, thanks to the efforts of Retta Risley, who helped facilitate their escape before they could be loaded onto a slaughter truck. Benson arrived at Broken Arrow in August 2022, and from day one, he made it clear that he was going to carve his own path.
While the other mules settled into their new surroundings, Benson had different ideas. Deciding there was more to life than his fellow mules, he squeezed through a fence, leaving them behind to seek out a different kind of companionship. Instantly drawn to the wild horses, he bonded with Shiloh’s herd, which later became part of Beauty’s Herd. His seamless integration into their world speaks to his independent spirit and bold determination—Benson doesn’t follow, he leads.
True to his larger-than-life personality, Benson proudly takes charge when it’s time to eat, confidently leading his herd to food and water. Like any good mini-mule, he is a foodie at heart, always eager for a snack and never one to miss mealtime. His presence brings a lighthearted, adventurous energy to the herd, and his ability to navigate life on his own terms is a reminder that sometimes, the best path is the one you make for yourself.
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Quarter Horse Gelding
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Quarter Horse Mare
Hope carries a quiet, transformative energy—an Emotional Alchemist who has endured deep loss yet continues to open her heart to healing. A bay Quarter Horse mare with a delicate star on her forehead, she arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary in July 2022, carrying the weight of a sorrow no mother should bear.
Inside the Oklahoma kill pen, Hope gave birth to her foal, Gracie. Their time together was heartbreakingly short—though rescued quickly, Gracie developed pneumonia and, despite medical care, passed away at just three weeks old. Through it all, Hope’s eyes never lost their longing for connection, though they also held the guarded hesitancy of a horse who had known pain.
Like many rescues, she is hand-shy—flinching at touch, likely from past abuse. But Hope has found solace in stillness. Rather than force trust, the staff at Broken Arrow meet her where she is, standing with her in quiet presence, allowing the bond to build in its own time.
Upon arrival, Hope gravitated toward Nala and Bella, the “mamas”, forming an immediate connection with their nurturing energy. But when the mamas left for emergency care with their sick foals, Hope faced another transition. She did not retreat into solitude—she adapted, forming new friendships with Tetra and Reese, eventually joining them in Ringo’s herd and now Beauty's herd.
But Hope’s healing doesn’t stop with herself. As an Emotional Alchemist, she helps both horses and humans process their emotions, holding space for grief, change, and renewal. Her presence is a reminder that pain does not define us—it can be transformed into a deeper capacity for connection, understanding, and love. She teaches us that healing is not about forgetting, but about allowing love to find us in new ways.
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BLM Mustang Mare
Lexi moves with precision and purpose, an in-tuned and decisive presence within the herd. A bay mare, approximately 10 years old, she holds the role of Resource Liaison—a horse with a deep knowing of where to find feed, water, shelter, birthing and death spots, and medicinal plants. She is the one who senses what is needed and ensures that the herd stays connected to the land’s abundant offerings.
Her journey to Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary began in the Kansas kill pens, where she was rescued by an angel donor just before she was loaded onto a slaughter truck. Alongside Kalie, she spent a month in quarantine before making the long journey to Oregon, arriving in July 2022.
From the start, Lexi was a force—a dominant mare with a tenacious survivor’s spirit. She is a natural leader, slightly bossy, like an older sister, ensuring that order is maintained among her herd-mates. While she does not offer trust freely to humans, she navigates the world with a sharp awareness, always assessing before making her move. Perhaps, in time, Kalie—who is more open to human connection—will show Lexi that Broken Arrow is a place where trust can grow.
As a Resource Liaison, Lexi’s instincts are vital to the herd’s well-being. She intuitively knows where to find safety, nourishment, and healing, leading her companions to the resources they need. She embodies the wisdom of the land, deeply connected to the cycles of life, and her presence ensures that her herd is always supported by the natural world around them.
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Quarter Horse Mare
Nala embodies the purest essence of motherhood—a nurturing, protective, and devoted presence who has fought for her place in the world and for the safety of her child. A gentle yet resilient mare, she arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary in June 2022, alongside her newborn foal, Chief, thanks to the efforts of Retta Risley of Diamond Bar Ranch Equine Rescue & Sanctuary.
Nala’s story is one of both heartbreak and hope. After giving birth to Chief, she was sent back to the kill pen just two hours later, her body still weak from labor, her newborn foal at her side. Thankfully, she spent only one day there before rescue efforts secured their safety and brought them home to Broken Arrow. But the toll on her was undeniable—Nala was fragile, dangerously underweight, and in desperate need of care.
With time, nourishment, and the gentle support of her new home, Nala has blossomed. She is now at an ideal weight, and where there was once fear in her eyes, there is now a warm, trusting glow. She has discovered the joy of neck scratches and the safety of belonging, allowing her naturally kind and loving spirit to shine through. As a Mother, her presence extends beyond Chief—she carries a deeply maternal energy, offering comfort, protection, and quiet reassurance to those around her.
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Molly Mule
Flora moves quietly and gracefully, a timid yet elegant presence within Beauty’s Herd. She is what we can only describe as a wallflower in the equine world, preferring to blend in rather than stand out. Her reserved nature speaks to her past—a life shaped by survival and the need to remain unnoticed.
Her story is one of quiet resilience. While at the kill pen, Flora and Cravin were turned out to pasture, where they escaped to a far back field, evading detection for months. Their intelligence and instincts kept them safe, but when they were eventually discovered, the workers were furious. Flora, Cravin, and two other mules, Benson and Milly, were immediately scheduled for shipment to Mexico. With less than a day before departure, Retta Risley reached out to Broken Arrow, knowing time was running out. Given the urgency, the mules were rescued without inspection and rushed to safety. Flora arrived at Broken Arrow in August 2022.
Since her arrival, Flora has chosen a life of quiet observation. She keeps to herself, remaining reserved and discreet, seemingly melting into the backdrop of the herd. Unlike the more dominant or outgoing mules, she does not seek attention—not from humans, nor from her herd mates in an obvious way. Instead, she moves gracefully, subtly finding her place without drawing notice. When she is fully in her element, her soft facial expressions and flowing movement reveal a quiet beauty that is unmistakable.
At Broken Arrow, we honor Flora’s need for time, space, and choice. She prefers no human interaction for now, and that is okay—healing happens at its own pace. Some rescued animals step forward immediately, while others, like Flora, need the patience of an open heart and the safety of simply being allowed to exist, uninterrupted.
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Quarter Horse Mare
Reese is a domestic mare with bay coloring saved from the Oklahoma kill pens. Being 10 years older than Tetra, Reese displays dominance over her younger friend. Angela, Blissful Heart Founder, knew she had to put these horses together prior to sharing a trailer. Reese and Tetra came from two separate quarantines and had never met. Horses, like people, do not always automatically get along. Luckily, Reese and Tetra became fast friends during their three weeks together in quarantine together. Reese was the friendliest horse right from the start and she would eat treats out of hands. Sweet Tetra watched this and learned to trust by modeling Reese’s actions.
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BLM Mustang Mare
Kalie carries the essence of stability, presence, and quiet reassurance—a grounding force within the herd and for all who stand beside her. A dark bay mustang with three white socks and a star, she holds the role of Energy Ground, offering a sense of calm and steadiness in a world that often feels uncertain.
Her journey to Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary was one of fate and divine intervention. Rescued from the Kansas kill pens, Kalie was spared from slaughter by an angel donor who saw her worth and paid for her freedom. Yet, she still needed a place to go—a sanctuary where she could truly be free. Clare Staples, founder of Skydog Ranch, worked alongside Broken Arrow to ensure Kalie found that safe haven. In July 2022, she arrived at Broken Arrow and began her new life.
Unlike many of our kill pen rescues who need time to trust, Kalie surprised us all—she walked into her new life with an open heart and a gentle spirit. Though untamed, she instinctively sought connection, integrating seamlessly into Shiloh’s herd—now Beauty’s Herd. She moves with ease among her companions, offering a grounding presence that brings balance to the horses around her.
Kalie’s gift extends beyond her herd. As an Energy Ground, she has the unique ability to anchor and stabilize energy, creating a space where both horses and humans can find peace. Whether standing quietly beside a nervous horse or allowing a person to rest in her presence, she reminds us to breathe, settle, and trust the moment.
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BLM Mustang Mare
Tetra is the eyes of the past and the voice of the present, a mare with an unwavering awareness of all that unfolds around her. A stunning red dun, she was rescued from the Oklahoma kill pens and arrived at Broken Arrow Ranch and Sanctuary in August 2022 as a two-year-old.
From the moment she set foot on the land, it was clear that Tetra sees everything. She is inquisitive and investigative, carefully observing every situation before engaging. She does not simply exist within the herd—she records its history, tracking the movements, relationships, and subtle shifts in energy that shape its story.
Her role as Record Keeper is felt in the way she checks in with her herd mates, as if ensuring the continuity of their shared experiences. Whether guiding a newcomer into the fold or sensing a change before it happens, she carries the collective memory of those who came before and those who are yet to arrive. She is equally perceptive with humans, often approaching to offer insight through presence alone, a quiet messenger of what has been and what is unfolding.
Tetra’s keen awareness and deep attunement remind us of the power of memory—not just as something we hold, but as something that shapes us. She teaches us that the stories we carry are not just our own, but woven into the fabric of those around us.
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Quarter Horse Gelding
Chief is bold, curious, and full of life, always eager to explore his surroundings and engage with his herd. He carries the spirit of adventure wherever he goes. Now 2.5 years old, he is still discovering his role, but one thing is certain—his playful energy and fearless curiosity bring a spark to Beauty’s Herd.
Chief’s story began in one of the most unlikely and heartbreaking places—an Oklahoma kill pen. His mother, Nala, was dangerously underweight when she gave birth, struggling to provide for her newborn. Just two hours later, the buyer who had originally taken Nala changed their mind, choosing to return her and Chief in favor of two registered horses. At just a few hours old, Chief found himself back in the kill pen, his future uncertain.
Though he was only there for one day, the unsanitary conditions left a lasting impact. Chief developed a serious respiratory infection, requiring an extended stay in intensive care. Through it all, Nala never left his side, nursing him and offering the comfort only a mother can provide. Thanks to their resilience and the dedication of those who saved them, Chief made a full recovery and was able to return home to Broken Arrow Ranch.
The moment his hooves touched the ground, Chief kicked up his heels in pure joy, racing across the pasture as if celebrating his second chance. He has since grown into a confident and independent young gelding, known for his mischievous spirit, playful nature, and eagerness to engage with his herd mates. He is a natural explorer, always investigating new sights, initiating games, and reminding everyone around him to embrace life with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Though he is still finding his place within the herd, Chief embodies the energy of adventure, possibility, and boundless joy. His journey is a reminder that life is meant to be explored, challenges can be overcome, and every moment is an opportunity to discover something new.
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Molly Mule
Milly may be one of the smallest in the herd, but she carries herself with a bold presence and a curious spirit. She is a natural explorer, always alert and aware of her surroundings, navigating life at Broken Arrow Ranch with confidence and quiet determination.
Milly was among four mules—Benson, Flora, Cravin, and herself—who were rescued from a kill pen with less than 24 hours before departure. Thanks to Retta Risley’s quick action, the four were able to make it out before they could be loaded onto a slaughter truck. She arrived at Broken Arrow in August 2022, stepping into her new life with the resilience and adaptability that mules are known for.
Despite her small stature, Milly stands out. She is tiny but mighty, moving with a sense of confidence that demands respect. She watches everything around her, assessing each situation before making her move. She is curious and independent, always looking for the next thing to investigate. Whether it’s a new pasture, a shift in herd dynamics, or simply a new way to explore her environment, Milly embraces the unknown with courage.
Her journey is a testament to the strength and intelligence of mules—their ability to survive, adapt, and thrive in the right environment. Milly embodies the spirit of adventure, reminding us that size does not determine strength and that curiosity leads to discovery.
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John Mule
Sammy was born at Broken Arrow - our first live birth at the ranch! Reese came to us pregnant with Sammy. Little did we know the day we saved Reese we ended up saving two lives. A donkey stole Reese’s heart. On Mother’s Day 2023, Reese gave birth to Sammy a spirited little mule. He came out strong and healthy, which was a big relief. The majority of the rescues are extremely under nourished, emaciated and in need of much care. Both Reese and Colibrí show boundaries when needed, as Sammy can be bossy and stubborn at times. Sammy loves to wrestle with his little friend, Colibrí and his mother. Sammy is often the first to show up when treats are offered.
THUNDER’S HERD
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South Steens Mustang Gelding
Thunder carries the strength of the wild and the presence of a leader, standing tall and unwavering as the Protector of his herd. A striking bay mustang, he commands respect without asking for it, embodying both power and grace in equal measure.
His journey has taken him across great distances, yet he has remained steadfast in his purpose. Thunder was originally rounded up in the South Steens of Oregon, where he spent several years in BLM holding corrals, separated from the land he once roamed freely. Eventually, he was adopted by a nonprofit in Oklahoma, where he spent three to four years alongside his band. When the nonprofit dissolved, its founder reached out to Broken Arrow Ranch with a request: to bring Thunder and four of his herd mates back home to Oregon. It was a full-circle journey—Thunder was returning to the lands from which he came.
From the moment he arrived, Thunder established himself as a guardian. He is always watchful, ensuring that his herd is safe, content, and protected. Though he is not aggressive, he stands firm, his presence alone enough to bring order and security. His loyalty is unwavering, and his regal demeanor speaks to a deep inner wisdom, an understanding that his role is not just to lead, but to safeguard those who stand beside him.
As a Protector, Thunder embodies strength, responsibility, and quiet authority. He teaches us that true power is not in control, but in presence—the ability to stand firm, to watch over, and to ensure that those we care for are safe.
If you resonate with Thunder’s energy of protection, leadership, and noble guardianship, consider sponsoring him or making a donation in his honor. Your support ensures that he—and others like him—continue to thrive in a place where their strength is honored and their spirit remains free.
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Unbranded Mustang Mare
Colibrí was born in Oklahoma at a nonprofit sanctuary. She is the foal of Black Pearl. She arrived at BARS malnourished, and she urgently needed proper nutrition and care. Her coat was dull and matted. Colibri was not developing properly due to lack of nutrients. Upon her arrival, we jumped into action and started her on extra grain and supplements. She quickly gained weight, showed increased energy and her coat has greatly improved. Colibri was very lethargic for the first couple weeks at BARS. Now she and Sammy love to play out in the field together running, wrestling and of course taking turns doing “zoomies.” She has a very sweet and loving personality. She is our precious little miracle girl!
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Oregon BLM Mustang Mare
Black Pearl carries the presence of a true matriarch—observant, deeply attuned, and always aware of the well-being of those around her. She is strong yet soft, protective yet open, a mare who leads not with dominance, but with wisdom and quiet assurance.
Originally from the BLM lands of Oregon, Black Pearl was adopted and sent to a sanctuary in Oklahoma, where she lived for several years. But when circumstances changed, she and her band—the “Wild Five”—needed a new home. In August 2023, she and her young foal, Colibri, made the long journey back to Oregon, returning to a land that had always been in her bones.
When she arrived, Black Pearl was malnourished and weak, struggling to provide for her filly. She was not producing milk, and time was critical. With a carefully managed rehabilitation plan, she gained nearly 40 pounds in just a few weeks, and miraculously, her milk production returned. Her dedication to her foal never wavered, and even in her fragile state, her watchful presence over Colibri remained unshaken.
Now thriving at Broken Arrow, Black Pearl is learning to trust again. She still keeps a keen eye on her surroundings, but her barriers are beginning to soften.
As a Matriarch, Black Pearl embodies the essence of wisdom, deep connection, and unwavering care. She teaches us to observe before acting, to hold space for those we protect, and to trust the slow, steady process of healing.
If you resonate with Black Pearl’s energy of quiet leadership, maternal wisdom, and deep awareness, consider sponsoring her or making a donation in her honor. Your support ensures that she—and others like her—can continue to lead, nurture, and find safety in the sanctuary they now call home.
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Yakima Reservation Gelding
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BLM Mustang Mare
Autumn is part of Thunder’s heard. She was also adopted from the BLM Burns corrals. She was sent to Oklahoma to a nonprofit and bonded with Thunder’s group. The lady that adopted them reached out to us to take Autumn as part of the Wild Five. Now that she’s settled in at Broken Arrow, Autumn has gained weight, her coat is shiny and her overall health is excellent. Autumn has a sweet, gentle personality and she loves being part of Thunder’s band. We are thankful to have been able to adopt and keep the Wild Five together.
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Yakima Reservation Mare
Claire at Skydog Sanctuary asked us to adopt Cider. Cider was rounded up in the state of Washington during a fire. She was adopted out to a riding center and they tried to train her but she wanted to stay wild. The group was going to send Cider to auction as they had no need for her. A teenage gal that worked at the riding center felt sorry for her and brought her home. She spent many months trying to befriend Cider before she reached out to Claire at Skydog for help. She was headed to college and her parents did not want to look after the horse after she left. In July 2023, She delivered Cider to our sanctuary and her new life with us began. In August, Cider was released with the Wild Five and she has become part of that band. Cider is smart and observant. Cider has a funny grunt she demonstrated upon being released at Broken Arrow. Thunder is slowly accepting her into the group and we see progress every day.
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South Steens Mustang Mare
Summer moves through life with steady awareness and quiet strength, embodying the role of a Mentor within her herd. She is a mare who understands the importance of connection, guidance, and protection, holding space for those around her with a grounded and reassuring presence.
Originally from the South Steens of Oregon, Summer was rounded up and placed in BLM holding corrals before being adopted by a kind woman. She eventually made her way to Oklahoma, where she bonded with Thunder’s group, becoming part of the Wild Five. In August 2023, Summer and her herd traveled back to Oregon and found sanctuary at Broken Arrow—a place where she could once again roam freely and reconnect with the rhythms of the land.
Summer has naturally stepped into the role of guardian and guide, particularly for Colibrí, whom we lovingly call her “Auntie”. She is watchful yet gentle, ensuring Colibrí stays safe while giving her the space to grow and explore. Seeing them side by side is a beautiful reminder of the deep social bonds within a wild herd—a testament to the unspoken trust and care that shapes their world.
A large yet kind and gentle mare, Summer carries herself with grace and quiet wisdom. She gingerly accepts hand treats, a sign of her growing trust, and her sweet nature shines through in every interaction. She leads not through dominance, but through presence, showing others the way simply by being steady, patient, and sure of herself.
As a Mentor, Summer embodies wisdom, protection, and the power of deep connection. She teaches us that true leadership comes from being present, aware, and grounded—offering guidance without force and holding space for others to find their own strength.
If you resonate with Summer’s energy of gentle mentorship, quiet strength, and deep connection, consider sponsoring her or making a donation in her honor. Your support ensures that she—and others like her—can continue to thrive, lead, and nurture future generations at Broken Arrow Ranch.
You see, I am Alive.
You see, I stand in good relation to the earth.
You see, I stand in good relation to all that is beautiful.
I stand in good relation to you…
You see, I am alive, I am alive.
— Kiowa SongBlissful Heart Wellness Center is a thriving community of over 35 holistic wellness practitioners, located in a charming historic neighborhood in Bend, Oregon. Whether you're seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or emotional support, you'll find your path to wellness at Blissful Heart.
Blissful Heart and Broken Arrow Ranch are collaborators of wellness experiences for humans.
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