Where Every Heart Matters at The Rescue Ranch
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Youngsville, New Mexico, just outside the village of Abiquiu, Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch stands as a sanctuary of hope and healing. Here, amidst the rolling hills and vast open skies, with Pedernal Mountain towering in the backdrop, Mike and Tina Kleckner dedicate their lives to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need.
A LABOR OF LOVE: MEET THE FOUNDS OF THE RANCH
Upon arriving at Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch, we found Mike and Tina already hard at work, unfazed by the biting cold or gusty winds. Caring for 32 animals is no small feat—feeding, watering, grooming, cleaning, and, most importantly, showering them with love. Rain or shine, mud or dust, one thing was undeniable: these animals always come first. Nothing deters them from their mission—every heart matters, and every life is worth saving.
This sanctuary is more than just a refuge—it’s a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. And Mike and Tina are not just caretakers; they are the very heartbeat of this extraordinary place. Their tireless work is a powerful reminder that love and kindness can truly transform lives.
There’s something profoundly moving about watching a once-neglected horse gallop freely across an open field, its spirit reignited by the care it has finally received. Even more heartwarming is the sight of dogs, cats, donkeys, and even a pig trotting closely behind—a testament to the deep, unbreakable bonds formed within this sanctuary.
A FAMILY UNLIKE ANY OTHER
Our visit began with a warm and enthusiastic welcome—not just from Mike and Tina, but from the true stars of the ranch: Ten horses, three donkeys, seven dogs, nine cats, two mice, and one particularly charismatic pig made up the lively welcoming committee. Each animal had a unique personality, making it clear that this was far more than a rescue—it was a family.
Seated near the paddock with coffee in hand, we watched a breathtaking scene unfold before us. The horses and donkeys were joined by a pig, cats, and dogs – all coexisting in peaceful harmony, in a way that felt almost magical. It was like stepping into a real-life Disney movie—only better because this was real. The love, trust, and unspoken understanding between these animals embodied the very essence of the sanctuary, a living testament to second chances and newfound hope.
As we took it all in, we couldn’t help but be in awe of what we were witnessing. Curiosity got the best of us, and we eagerly began asking questions, eager to uncover the inspiring story behind this incredible sanctuary.
THE STORY BEHIND THE RANCH
Q: Tell us about your journey. What brought you to Abiquiu? Have you always shared a love for animals?
Tina: My father was a minister, and in 1968, our family embarked on a mission trip that brought us to Ghost Ranch. As a young girl, I was captivated by the land—its vast beauty, its stillness, its soul. That experience left an indelible mark on me, and I knew, even then, that one day I would call this place home.
Mike and I were both drawn to Abiquiu for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural history, and the deep sense of peace it provides. But our greatest bond has always been our love for animals. For as long as we can remember, we've instinctively stopped to help any creature in need. Starting a rescue wasn’t just a decision—it was a calling, a natural extension of who we are.
Q: What inspired you to start the rescue ranch?
Tina: A dear friend opened our eyes to the heartbreaking reality of equines in crisis when she began rescuing horses from auction houses—animals just days away from being shipped to slaughter. Witnessing their fear and uncertainty firsthand, we knew we couldn’t look the other way. We had the land, the determination, and, most importantly, the heart to make a difference.
Mike: What began with a few rescues soon became something much bigger. Time and again, we encountered animals—especially horses and donkeys—who had been abandoned, neglected, or surrendered by owners no longer able to care for them. We couldn’t ignore their suffering, so we stepped up. That’s how Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch was born. Today, we are proud to be one of only 12 equine rescues licensed by the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB), giving these animals the second chance they deserve.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part of running a rescue?
Tina: Watching an animal learn to trust again. When a neglected or abused animal first arrives, they’re often scared, withdrawn, and unsure of the world around them. But with patience, kindness, and consistent care, we see them transform—ears perk up, eyes soften, and spirits lift. Witnessing that moment when fear gives way to trust when they realize they are safe and loved, makes every challenge worthwhile.
MEET THE RESCUED RESIDENTS
Q: What kinds of animals live at the ranch?
Mike: We are proud parents to horses, donkeys, a pig, cats, dogs, and mice! Yes, two mice! Our barn cats brought us these baby mice, barely a few days old. They dropped them at our feet, and they’ve been part of the family ever since!
Tina: Our main focus is horses and donkeys, but over time, we’ve opened our hearts—and our sanctuary—to other animals in need. One of our most unforgettable rescues is Piggy Sue, a potbellied pig who arrived with his ears freshly cut off—a cruel act we can’t begin to understand.
FROM CRISIS TO COMPASSION
Q: How do the animals find their way to you, or how do you find them? Tina: Most of our rescues come through word of mouth, local contacts, and referrals from law enforcement agencies dealing with cases of neglect, abuse, or abandonment. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, along with our website (www.HorseshoeCanyonRescueRanch.org), have also played a huge role in connecting us with animals in need.
Mike: We frequently receive calls from owners who, for various reasons, can no longer care for their animals. Some cases are heartbreaking—people who love their horses deeply but are facing financial hardship or illness. Other times, we’re alerted to urgent situations where an animal is in immediate danger and needs to be rescued without delay.
Tina: And then, there are the unexpected arrivals—like our newest addition, a cat who simply showed up at our door as if guided by some unseen force. It was as if he knew this was a safe haven, and now, he’s part of our ever-growing family. We named him Big Al, and he has quickly become the Barn Manager.
Q: Can you share a particularly memorable rescue story?
Tina: Every rescue is special, but one that will always stay with us is Cooper North, a pony brought to us by the New Mexico Livestock Board. He was found tied to a tree with a mere three-foot rope—malnourished, weak, and deeply neglected. It was clear he had endured both physical and emotional hardship. When Cooper North arrived, he was completely shut down, his eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. We weren’t sure if he’d ever trust humans again. But with time, patience, and the gentle companionship of his new equine family, he began to heal. Little by little, his spirit returned.
Mike: Today, Cooper North has not only regained his strength and weight but, more importantly, his confidence. Watching him run freely, his mane flowing in the wind, is a powerful reminder of why we do this work—because every animal deserves a second chance.
Q: Do all the animals get along?
Tina: For the most part, yes! But, just like people, every animal has its own personality. Some are social and bond quickly, while others take time to adjust. When a new equine arrives, they go through a quarantine period to ensure they’re healthy before being introduced to the herd. Some integrate seamlessly within days, while others take weeks—or even months—to find their place. Watching these animals form connections and create their unique family dynamic is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.
Mike: Herd dynamics are fascinating—some horses are natural leaders, while others are more reserved, especially if they’ve been neglected or abused in the past. We pay close attention to their interactions to make sure every animal feels safe and comfortable in their new home.
Q: Who is the quirkiest animal in your rescue right now, and what makes them unique?
Tina: Without a doubt, that title belongs to Piggy Sue—also known as A Boy Named Sue or Sumo—our potbellied pig with a personality as big as his name collection. He came to us after being found hiding under a bush, traumatized and missing his ears, likely the victim of human cruelty. From the start, he trusted the dogs, horses, and donkeys—but made it clear that humans were not welcome in his world. If we got too close, he’d charge, leaving no room for misinterpretation. Treating his ear wounds became a challenge, forcing us to use a long stick to carefully dab on medication from a safe distance over the fence.
But with time, patience, and kindness, Piggy Sue underwent an incredible transformation. Today, he’s a completely different animal—trotting over with a wagging tail when we call his name, eagerly soaking up back scratches, and shadowing us around the ranch like a loyal pup. He’s especially taken to Mike, refusing to leave his side in the garden. And while pigs and horses don’t typically make the best of friends, Piggy Sue defies expectations, spending his days right alongside the horses and even trailing them into the pasture. From a frightened, defensive survivor to a trusting, curious companion, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Q: Have you ever had an animal that surprised you with their personality?
Tina: Absolutely! Every animal that arrives at our rescue comes with their own unique personality, but many are initially shut down, fearful, or completely withdrawn due to past trauma. It’s incredible to watch them transform once they realize they’re safe. Some start out avoiding all contact, only to evolve into the most affectionate, attention-seeking companions—trailing us around the ranch!
Mike: Seeing these animals rediscover trust and joy is one of the most rewarding aspects of rescue work. Every horse and donkey at HCRR now actively seeks out human interaction, which is a powerful testament to how patience, love, and kindness can heal even the deepest wounds.
LIFE AT THE RANCH: A DAY IN THE RESCUE RANCH
Q: What’s a typical day like for you?
Tina: Our mornings start early—feeding, watering, and checking in on each animal’s health and well-being. After that, it’s a full day of cleaning, training, and maintenance work. Some days run smoothly; other days, we’re handling unexpected emergencies, battling bad weather, or responding to another urgent call for help.
Mike: While we try to follow a schedule, the reality of rescue work means constant surprises—vet emergencies, unpredictable weather, special needs cases, or animals in crisis. With so many animals relying on us and the rescue services we provide to our rural communities, no two days are ever the same!
Q: What does morning care involve?
Mike: Breakfast is up first, with the animals getting food depending on their nutritional needs. The horses primarily eat grass, hay, and alfalfa to balance nutrition, they get the right amount of fiber, protein, and energy. After breakfast, fresh water troughs are refilled, and we do a quick health check—looking for any signs of injury, illness, or discomfort. After that, it’s time to clean the paddocks, because horses make a lot of manure!
Q: What happens after morning chores?
Tina: It depends on the day! Some days, we have vet or farrier visits. Other days, we focus on training, socialization, and rehabilitation. There’s always something to fix—fences, shelters, or equipment. And, of course, there are always phone calls, adoption inquiries, and rescue requests coming in.
Q: Do you ride the rescued horses?
Tina: Only if they are physically and mentally ready. Many of our rescues have past trauma, so their rehabilitation focuses on trust and groundwork first. At Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch, we believe a horse does not need to be ridden, we believe every horse deserves to be loved and cared for.
Q: What about the other animals at the ranch?
Tina: Along with horses, we also care for donkeys, dogs, cats, a pig, and mice! Everyone has their own routine, and each animal gets the care and attention they need throughout the day.
Q: What does the afternoon look like?
Mike: After lunch, we do another round of health checks and provide any necessary medical care. We may introduce new rescues to the herd, work with animals needing extra attention, or handle adoptions and transport. Ranch work never stops, so afternoons often include repairs, unloading and stacking hay, or responding to new rescue calls.
Q: What’s the most unpredictable part of the job?
Tina: Emergencies. We’ve had everything from sudden colic cases to calls about abandoned horses needing immediate rescue. You never know when you’ll have to drop everything to help an animal in distress.
Q: What does evening care involve?
Mike: Evening feeding is similar to the morning routine—each horse gets their dinner, water troughs are refilled, and we do a final health check. We make sure everyone is settled for the night before we call it a day.
Q: What are the most common medical or behavioral issues you see in rescued animals?
Tina: Many of our rescues arrive malnourished or suffering from years of neglect. Some have untreated injuries, while others show signs of past abuse or trauma. Behaviorally, fear and distrust are common—some animals won’t even let us approach them at first. But with patience, proper care, and time, we see incredible transformations. The resilience of these animals never ceases to amaze us.
ADOPTION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Q: Can people adopt from your rescue? What’s the process?
Tina: Yes! We take great care in ensuring each animal finds the right home. The adoption process starts with an application and interview to assess the adopter’s experience, facilities, and ability to provide lifelong care. We also offer support during the transition to set both the adopter and the animal up for success. Right now, we focus on direct adoptions since we’re at full capacity—when a horse is in need, we do our best to place them in a forever home as quickly as possible.
Q: Do you provide support to the community with animal-related needs, such as rehoming or assistance?
Mike: Absolutely. We help families explore all possible options when they can no longer care for their animals. That could mean offering temporary assistance, connecting them with resources, or finding a suitable new home. Our goal is always to do what’s best for the animal and to support our local community in any way we can.
Q: Can people stop by and visit the rescue?
Mike: While we’re deeply grateful for the interest and support, we’re unable to offer visits at this time. We prioritize maintaining the animals' daily routines and ensuring their safety and well-being.
Tina: That said, we love sharing our work and encourage folks to follow us on social media for updates, rescue stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life at the ranch! We’re also planning a community day at the ranch, so stay tuned!
Q: Do you need volunteers to help?
Mike: Yes! Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch is a volunteer-based organization, and we welcome extra hands. Volunteers can help with stacking hay, repairing fences, cleaning enclosures, and general ranch maintenance. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to work hard and a heart for animals. If you're interested in volunteering, reach out to us to schedule a time!
Q: If you could say one thing to the community, what would it be?
Tina: Every animal deserves kindness, respect, and a chance at a better life. Whether through rescue, adoption, responsible ownership, or simply spreading awareness, we all have the power to make a difference.
CHALLENGES, TRIUMPHS, AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Q: What are the biggest challenges your rescue faces?
Tina: Funding is always a challenge. The costs of feed, veterinary care, and ranch maintenance add up fast—we go through around 1,000 bales of hay a year. To save money, we haul, unload, and stack it ourselves. Emergencies seem to happen on the coldest nights, and the emotional toll of rescue work can be heavy.
Mike: Another challenge is that we run everything ourselves—just the two of us. Being in a remote location makes it difficult to get volunteers, so we handle all the daily care, training, medical needs, and ranch work. Rescue is physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting—but seeing an animal regain trust and thrive? That makes it all worthwhile.
Q: How do you fund your operations, and what are your biggest financial needs?
Tina: We mostly fund the rescue ourselves, but we are incredibly grateful for the donations we receive. A few years ago, some wonderful friends organized a fundraiser called Ride to the Rescue, which was a huge help. Local businesses donated items for an auction and the proceeds went directly to the care of the ranch. (One lucky winner went home with a one-night stay at The Grand Hacienda Inn, donated by Discover Abiquiu and The Grand Hacienda!)
Mike: Our biggest expenses are feed and veterinary care. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a big difference in keeping the rescue running.
Q: What are your goals for the next five years?
Tina: To continue making a difference—one heart at a time. One of our most crucial goals is obtaining consistent funding through grants, donations, and sponsorships. This will ensure the long-term sustainability of the ranch and allow us to continue taking in emergency rescues.
Mike: Our primary goals focus on expanding and improving our rescue efforts in several key areas. By focusing on these priorities, we can create a lasting impact for the animals in our care and the broader rescue community.
Facility Enhancements: We aim to expand our fencing and enhance our facilities to provide more space for the horses to roam and graze in rotation. Our land is fragile, so additional fenced pastures will allow us to manage it sustainably while giving the animals greater freedom.
Foster & Adoption Network: We're working to build a larger network of foster and adoptive families to ensure more rescued animals find loving, permanent homes.
Animal Protection Advocacy: We continue to collaborate with legislators and organizations to push for stronger animal protection laws, stricter enforcement against neglect and abuse, and an end to the shipment of horses to Mexico and Canada for slaughter.
Q: Are there any upcoming events or projects you'd like people to know about?
Tina: Yes! We're excited to announce plans for an upcoming Community Open House. Since we run the rescue full-time, we aren't always able to welcome visitors, but this special event will give people the opportunity to tour the ranch, meet the animals, and learn more about our mission. We can't wait to share our work with the community!
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Ways to Support the Ranch
Donations, volunteering, and spreading the word all contribute to making a difference. every act of kindness helps them continue transforming lives—one rescue, one heart at a time.
Donate online via PayPal
Mail a check to:
Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch
c/o Mike and Tina Kleckner
P.O. Box 125
Youngsville, NM 87064-0125
Send a contribution through Zelle at HCRR@earthlink.net
Share our story on social media—it helps more than you know!
If you’re local, we’d love volunteers to help stack hay!
FINAL THOUGHTS
Mike and Tina’s dedication to their animals is truly inspiring. Their unwavering commitment to rescuing, rehabilitating, and restoring trust in animals who have endured hardship demonstrates the profound impact that kindness and perseverance can have on vulnerable lives. Despite facing numerous challenges—whether financial, emotional, or logistical—they remain steadfast in their mission, ensuring that each animal receives the care, love, and second chance it deserves.
Their work serves as a potent reminder that every creature, no matter its past, has the potential to heal and thrive when given the right environment and support. Through patience and compassion, they not only transform the lives of the animals they rescue but also inspire others to take action, whether by adopting, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness about the importance of animal welfare.
In a world where so many animals are abandoned, neglected, or mistreated, Mike and Tina’s efforts shine as a beacon of hope. Their journey proves that small acts of kindness can lead to profound change and that with enough dedication, second chances are always possible.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HORSESHOE CANYON RESCUE RANCH
📍 Location: Youngsville, New Mexico
🌐 Website: www.HorseshoeCanyonRescueRanch.org
💙 Support Our Mission: Donate via Zelle at HCRR@earthlink.net
📩 Contact Us: Email: HCRR@earthlink.net
Your support helps rescue and care for horses in need—thank you for making a difference! 🐴💙
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DISCOVER ABIQUIU
This blog is sponsored by Discover Abiquiú and The Grand Hacienda Inn.
Nestled in the heart of northern New Mexico, Abiquiú is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and deep artistic roots. Once home to legendary artist Georgia O’Keeffe, this enchanting region boasts dramatic red rock formations, serene lakes, and endless desert vistas. Discover Abiquiú provides visitors with local information, activity updates, and event highlights through its website (www.thegrandhacienda.com/discoverabiquiu) and social media channels (www.facebook.com/discoverabiquiu).
At the heart of this captivating landscape lies The Grand Hacienda Inn (www.thegrandhacienda.com), an exclusive luxury bed and breakfast perched on a mesa overlooking Abiquiú Lake. Designed for tranquility and indulgence, this intimate, adults-only retreat offers an unparalleled Southwest experience. With just three beautifully curated suites, The Grand Hacienda seamlessly blends traditional adobe architecture with modern comforts, featuring private courtyards, spa-like bathrooms, breathtaking views, and gourmet breakfasts made with locally sourced ingredients.
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