Unexpected Guests: A Horsey Adventure at Quail Run Elementary

At Quail Run Elementary School, I have the privilege of sharing live animals with students in an afterschool program. While most of the animals I bring are reptiles, I always look forward to the session when I bring a horse. In a region surrounded by horse country, it’s surprising how few kids have had the chance to interact up close with a horse. This unique experience is always a highlight for them.

Until this year, the horse I’ve brought was Napolean, an elderly Mustang. Not only was he tolerant of a surge of children, but he also allowed me to discuss mustangs and the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) management of horses.

When it comes to our horse sessions, safety is our top priority. I always bring experienced horsepeople with me, as horses can be quite dangerous. No one is allowed to ride the horse, as I don’t believe the school’s or my liability insurance would cover that. There’s something inherently risky about getting on the back of a thousand-pound prey animal.

Well, this past week, some “neighbors” decided to see what Napoleon and I were doing at the school. Of course, Napoleon wasn’t there, but they had finally had the opportunity to get away from home for a school visit.

Unexpected Guests

Three loose horses and the donkey wandered over to the school. Scarily, the front parking lot is just off of busy Cortaro Farms Roads, with vehicles going 40 mph over a slight hill—a really bad place for horses to wander. The school staff and responding police were able to corral the wanderers in a fenced courtyard. Bales of hay were being stored in a school shed for use in special events, so a hay meal was offered, and it looked like it was enjoyed.

Yes, the visit was recorded by the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Every now and then, the deputies get to demonstrate their cowboy skills. 

https://www.instagram.com/pimasheriff/reel/DFpyAIAOlk3/

https://www.facebook.com/pimasheriff/videos/1771688383402861

Some of the deputies are skilled riders, I knew that because of the one who rode my friend’s horse back to the stables after he stumbled in a wash. You might have seen the video of a horse being ridden up La Cholla Blvd. That’s a different story, one that involves a somewhat dramatic rescue, but that’s a tale for another time.

I’m delighted to share that the wayward equines were safely returned to their home after providing a bit of excitement for the students and the staff. Perhaps I’ll see them again when I take Poncho for a visit this semester. Horses, like us, enjoy the company of their herd. The more, the merrier! 

If you enjoyed this glimpse into my horse adventures, be sure to check out my other blog posts for more stories and insights about my amazing equine experiences!