HI! MY NAME IS CHANCE (SPIRIT)

I'm a 15 hand quarter/mix gelding and I'm about 17 years old. I was found wandering in the San Gabriel Riverbed area where someone had abandoned me. I was taken to the shelter and boarded with a little Mustang mare that had also been abandoned. Both of us were scheduled to be euthanized, but Fran found us and took us home to JAMES.

They say I am the victim of "horse tripping". I have a lot of scars, physical and emotional, and I spook easy. At first, I didn't like anyone and would hide in the corners of my stall. But the treats were so good that I had to learn how to trust these people, even for a few seconds, in order to get the treats from their hands to my mouth!

I'm not as scared as I used to be and if you have a treat, I'll trade you a kiss for it! I really want to trust these people, but with so many terrifying memories, it's very hard. I will let Fran or Steve groom me – but I still won't let them near my tail and I'll kick if anyone tries to touch my backend. I'm okay with a halter and lead rope and I'll let Dr. Norm give me my shots. As much special treatment as I need, Fran still calls me her "good boy" and I just know that I'm Steve's "favorite"!

I'll never been ridden but at JAMES, I can be what I am - a horse - and be appreciated and cared for, just for me.

*Horse tripping has been banned in the State of California. Although it is a misdemeanor, "backyard tripping" is still prevalent is some areas. If you suspect or know of someone who is involved in this activity, please call your local Animal Control or Law Enforcement agencies. For more information, type in keyword "horse tripping".