Explaining the difference between Sanctuary wild horses and wild horses on public lands: To ensure their safety, wild horses on public lands should retain a healthy fear of humans (and dogs) as not all humans are good humans. In contrast, a Sanctuary environment aims to establish trust and eliminate fear, allowing for smooth handling for routine care and veterinary care. Sanctuaries provide a secure environment, shielded from human interference and potential harm.

These are the rescued Alpine wild horses at Nirvana Mustang Sanctuary and it was wonderful to see them at such peace, and spend quality time with them. However, with our Salt River wild horses its important to do the opposite. When interacting with Salt River horses, please maintain the recommended 50 ft distance, recognizing that this guideline prioritizes the horses’ welfare over your individual experience with horses. Because all horses are innocent, but not all people are.

Thank you to everyone who respects the horses and to everyone who is calling and writing to give them a voice!