Tehachapi News

larger view

We have our own super heroes in Tehachapi. The United Pegasus Foundation's, Helen Meredith, is certainly an amazing woman, much deserving of our support and recognition. I have seen Helen toiling on their ranch and working her fingers to the bone all in a heroic effort to save Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, and Draft Horses that are discarded in feedlots and bound for slaughter. This is truly a thankless job, where the work never ends, and there is never enough support. The trucks break down the tractor falls apart, the hay runs out. Yet there she still is, with mud on her face, hay in her hair, and dirt under her fingernails. Helen is my hero because she never gives up, and keeps going no matter how difficult the circumstances.

Many of the horses that United Pegasus rescues are perfectly healthy horses that just need a little handling, training or some TLC.  There are also Thoroughbreds that come from the track, that can be rehabilitated and make good riding horses. Others are retired to live out that their lives on the ranch with dignity. 

I have 2 horses, both adopted through Pegasus' program --- a beautiful black Percheron cross, named Bella, and a Registered Clydesdale, Riverview Thunder.  It's hard to imagine that these gorgeous, gentle horses were bound  for a slaughterhouse where they would be sold based on their weight to a meat packer. 

I recently showed Thunder at the Pomona Country International Draft Horse Show. Thunder was entered into the Clydesdale Geldings, Three and Under Halter Class, and am delighted  to report that he took first place in that event! I hope to get both horses under harness by next spring and compete in hitch classes all around California.  It's amazing what these horses will do for you if given a chance.

There are more horses just like mine up at the UPF ranch in Cummings Valley. There are Spotted Draft crosses, Paint Horses, young foals in Canada just waiting for United Pegasus to help find them good homes and save them from a terrifying and horrible end. I would strongly encourage the members of our community to rally behind this local worthy cause, open up you heart and your wallets and do whatever you can. Donations of Hay, Feed, and financial support are always needed.  Currently, UPF, is is dire need of a four wheel drive pick-up to haul horses, and a tractor. All donations are completely tax deductible. 

 It's time to tell Helen what we really think of all her hard work and support our own  very special hometown hero. United Pegasus Foundation can be contacted at 823-9672 and horses are available on their website for viewing at unitedpegasus.com.You may also contact me directly for arranging for donation pick-ups, and other fundraising ideas that you might have to help benefit this worthy cause. Christine Froehlich, 821-1774.