Read Magic's Story ^{(In Memoriam)}

Magic was taken from his mom very young and sent to a horse sale. He was bought by an animal trainer for the movies and taught many tricks, which he loved. Sadly the trainer and his wife separated and in the divorce sold all their property and animals. Magic was brought to The Gentle Barn. The many losses he endured at such a young age broke his resolve and Magic slumped into a hopeless depression. It took months to breathe life back into him, but slowly magic healed, made friends, and found new reasons to feel joy and purpose at The Gentle Barn. Magic started performing tricks, like nodding his head yes, shaking his head no, counting with his legs, bowing, giving kisses and hugs, and making everyone who visited smile, laugh, and burst into applause. We never taught him those tricks, magic came up with them all on his own. Eventually, Magic matured and became the leader of our horse herd, settling disputes, caring for the elderly or injured, and making everyone feel safe. Magic learned that caring for others is far more rewarding than doing tricks for attention, and reminded all of us of that lesson in the process. He will forever be in our hearts and will always make us smile, even now.