The Onaqui 8!

There is something about the innocence of mustangs that reminds of the purity and vulnerability of a child.

Here is a moment of peering into their world. A child filled with happiness and joy who has only ever experienced love.

Then there is a beautiful young mustang Hedwig - (here with Gus) who with his pregnant mother Potter- innocence and freedom were robbed by the evil of man.

It’s hard to imagine that after such crushing destruction to their spirit - that this beautiful yearling could ever trust again. However, it’s not hard to believe that Hedwig sensed Gus could be trusted. Hedwig gently nudged as Gus so sweetly held out his hand .. it was a moment where time stood still.

Hedwig felt no fear, and there was no hesitation between them. It was as though they were raised together - growing from a toddler and foal to young boy and his yearling

It has taken time and patience for all the Onaqui and all who work with them at Dreamchaser daily to earn trust. It’s hard to undo what was done on the range when captured and fear while in holding at the BLM. The smell and sound of fear surrounded every where they turned. However the bond between Gus and Hedwig was born the moment they met.

If only all humans could recognize the value of mustangs in the wild, if only we could watch them with the innocent eyes of children running freely. If only all mustangs knew - as Hedwig knows … that there are others like his friend Gus.

For isn’t that what we all wish for … to have in our hearts those moments of joy and happy we have in our memories of childhood.

Thank you Gus and Hedwig for sharing with us all that the bond between you is a priceless gift not to be taken for granted.