Although the day started out rainy, the skies were sunny for Angel Reins’ 3rd Annual Boots and Blue Jeans fundraiser, held at the Clearwater Rodeo Grounds last Saturday. The evening began with performances on horseback by the MN Equestrienne team and Angel Reins’ very own rescue horses, Cowboy and Journey, two of the organization’s 14 rescue horses.

During the event, Dr. Miranda Boll, associate veterinarian at the Watkins Veterinary Clinic, shared the story of Journey, a rescue horse who was literally on death’s door with his organs shutting down. 

When made aware of Journey, Angel Reins stepped in and rescued him. With months of love and excellent care, Journey not only survived, he rallied and has shown the world who he is...a beautiful, intelligent, well-mannered horse. During the arena portion of the event, Dr. Boll rode proudly on his back, performing to Lee Greenwood’s God Bless the USA, making her childhood dream of carrying a flag while riding a horse come to life.

In addition to an excellent dinner, the Clearwater Lion’s Club sponsored and served beverages. The evening also included a silent auction, a live auction with the one and only Fred Walz, and fun music by Jerry Foley and Friend.

A highlight of the evening included combat veterans sharing stories of how the horses at Angel Reins have helped them heal from the war trauma they’ve struggled to deal with.

One of Angel Reins’ goals is to continue to grow and expand its services. They’re excited to announce the development of the new Angel Reins Rescue Ridge on their 10 acres. The project is in the planning stages of building a log cabin for veterans to relax, find peace, and enjoy a good cup of coffee. 

“I’m grateful to God for charting the course for this beautiful mission of rescuing horses and helping others heal,” said Founder and Executive Director of Angel Reins Stable Katherine Zachman.

Along with veterans, the organization serves survivors of human trafficking from Terebinth Refuge, Bri’s Lodge Grief Groups, and others. They also offer Equine Rest and Relaxation retreats to area nonprofits, including Terebinth Refuge, Central MN Child Advocacy Center, Central MN Sexual Assault Center, and others. All programs are offered free of charge.

Angel Reins is run completely by volunteers, except for their bookkeeper and accountant. Its mission is to provide a safe, peaceful place for people and horses to experience kindness, hope, and healing through equine-assisted activities, as well as just relaxing at the stable. Once arriving at Angel Reins’, all their rescue animals, whether horse, dog, or cat, can live out their lives at a loving forever home.

For more information or to contact Angel Reins, visit their website at angelreinsstable.org, their Facebook page at facebook.com/AngelReinsStable, email info@AngelReinsStable.org, or call 855-997-3467 (855 99REINS).