(Jan 13, 2023) Kandace volunteers for both Wild Horse Connection and LRTC’s Large Animal Rescue Team. We asked Kandace about her involvement with the Virginia Range horses and here’s what she shared with us:
Tell us how you got involved in wild horses?
When I was a young girl, I loved horses and my favorite movie was Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken. It created the dreamer in me of one day having a horse of my own. Years later that dream of having or working with horses continued. The opportunity came when I moved to Reno, I did not really know anyone, and I was not sure how I would acclimate with the sudden change, how I would meet people or learn about the area. Driving around one day getting familiar with different neighborhoods I came across a band of horses and a lady that was helping them cross the road safely. I stopped and asked her about what she was doing, she explained to me it was volunteer work and I should join, I felt like it was an answer to my prayers, a dream, a once in a lifetime opportunity, so I joined!
What is your favorite part of volunteering?
Not only seeing but learning about these beautiful, majestic creatures is by far my favorite part. But also when a call comes in, you never know what the outcome will be, we have had some tough losses. But when you have a win, a horse that was saved in one way or another, it overshadows those loses and makes you feel proud that you are out here making a difference in hopes of keeping them wild and free.
Why are wild horses special to you? What do they represent to you?
Wild horses are special to me in many ways. Horses have always been one of my favorite animals, they are very smart and can be sweet, sassy and spunky but they also bring a sense of peace and calm. I suffer from anxiety and depression and each time I get to help them, all my problems disappear. I then not only can focus on them but it also gives my life purpose and meaning.
A wild horse represents beauty and freedom. “I have seen things so beautiful they have brought tears to my eyes. Yet none of them can match the gracefulness and beauty of a horse running free.” Author Unknown
What is/was your day job?
During the day I work full-time as a Compliance Coordinator for a local real estate company.
Do you have a favorite memory from the range that you can share with us?
My favorite memory on the range would be a sweet little foal named Sadie, who was spotted by another volunteer wandering the range without her mom. I was called in to keep eyes on her in hopes momma would be found. During that time frame she quickly bonded with me and her trust grew. Sadly, although her mom was never found, I was able to assist in her rescue and was able to visit her a few times up until her adoption. (the picture attached was her walking along side me down to the trailer and then a current picture of me visiting her)
What other animals have you seen on the range?
When on the range I have seen deer, coyotes, sheep, snakes and a bobcat.
Okay, aside from horses, what is your favorite animal?
Aside from horses I absolutely love turtles!
If a theme song played every time you go out on the range, what would your theme song be?
Jason Aldean Dirt Road Anthem
If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
TACOS!!
What’s the next place on your travel bucket list?
A trip along the East Coast stopping at Assateague Island National Seashore and also a visit to Salt River Arizona, yes you guessed it, to see the wild horses!
