I was selecting and editing photos for the winter newsletter this weekend when I "discovered" a photo I took back in late August but never ended up using on the blog. And it illustrates a wonderful love story about two of our blind horses, Bo and Guadalupe. That's big, handsome Bo on the left, standing guard over his little filly, Guadalupe, while she snoozes.
This is a common sight with these two. Whenever she is sleeping or just resting like this, Bo is always standing right behind her, protecting her while she's down.
He absolutely adores Guadalupe and can't stand being apart from her ... even if it's only, say, 10 feet away! Whenever we bring them in from pasture, Bo gets a bit agitated if he thinks Guadalupe is too far from him, and he starts nickering and whinnying to her. To reassure him, we've learned it's best to bring them in side by side ... always.
Although Guadalupe is a tiny little thing compared to Bo, she's really the leader of the two. I wouldn't say she's dominant in that horsey kind of way -- she doesn't boss him around -- but she is the confident, assertive, inquisitive one, and is always on the move. We'll often look out and see Guadalupe gliding across the pasture while Bo does his best to follow and keep up with her. She's the first to go check things out, whether it's because we're filling the water tank in their pasture -- "Hey, look, people are here!" -- or because another horse is whinnying in the adjoining pasture -- "Hey, what's up with Domino?" As she skitters off in that direction, Bo traipses along behind, whinnying to her: "Wait for me, dear!"
But when it comes time for Guadalupe to rest, Bo is all about being her loyal protector. Although, truth be told, he's probably relieved she's staying put for a change so he can relax, too. He's thinking, "Enough of keeping up with this filly!"
Wonderful love story!
Posted by: Shirley * James * Portland, OR | October 21, 2008 at 12:15 AM
This is a "melt your heart" story. Thanks for sharing the photos as well.
Posted by: Nina | October 20, 2008 at 07:25 PM
so when did Guadalupe dump Domino for Bo? Or did Domino dump her?
Posted by: Lisa Simonds | October 20, 2008 at 06:01 PM
What a great story of devotion & love. They are a lovely pair as well. I think Guadalupe has Bo's number!
Big hugs to all,
ginger, Tobias & Tlingit
Posted by: ginger | October 20, 2008 at 05:51 PM
Such beautiful horses!
They can teach us some real lessons, too. Our Jupiter and Ava are always only feet apart, no matter what. They truly love and show it in such a dignified, easy way. Thanks again Steve and Alayne for the perspective!
Posted by: pjmac7 | October 20, 2008 at 05:45 PM
Loved the story. It's this kind of story that makes me stop dead in my tracks and reminds me in no uncertain terms that animals attach themselves to each other and have feelings for each other and care for each other. It's something I tend to not think about about often enough. It's not only sweet to hear but good to share. Thanks!
Posted by: Miranda | October 20, 2008 at 12:20 PM
Simply warms my heart. So lucky for Bo & Guadalupe to have each other and the wonderful sanctuary and care of the RDR. Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Margaret | October 20, 2008 at 11:14 AM
You know, I never realized horses developed friendships before I started reading your website.
Thank you.
Posted by: Lynn | October 20, 2008 at 10:59 AM
what a beautiful story to start the week off. We should all be so lucky to have such a protector on our sides.
Posted by: chris from toronto | October 20, 2008 at 10:18 AM
Great photo!
It must be pretty sweet to see Bo trailing after Guadalupe 24/7.
Keep the relationship going you two!
Posted by: Boundforglory | October 20, 2008 at 10:02 AM
What a beautiful picture and love story of Bo and Guadalupe. Steve, you have a wonderful way of writing that helps us get to know and love the special animals at Rolling Dog Ranch.
Posted by: Robyn | October 20, 2008 at 02:47 AM
I just love horse stories! Thanks, Steve, for sharing this sweet love story and your lovely picture with us.
Have a great week.
Posted by: Carla Polastro-Nigro | October 20, 2008 at 02:43 AM
Bo is very cute... keep up the good work with the animals.
- T
http://MostEmailedNews.com
Posted by: MostEmailedNews.com | October 20, 2008 at 12:44 AM
What a good love story! Thanks.
Posted by: Moon Rani | October 19, 2008 at 08:40 PM
Ahhh, now that makes my heart melt! I love the picture & the protection he provides to his girl! Sweet, sweet love story!
Posted by: Colleen & Sweet Kitty Erin | October 19, 2008 at 07:03 PM
What a sweet horse love story!!Claire
Posted by: Claire S. Moen | October 19, 2008 at 06:00 PM