Meet Einstien

Einstein was the son of Pappa Gallo, a well known race horse in the Northwest. And not just known for his winnings at the track, Pappa Gallo had the reputation of being "insane." I believe he was just "misunderstood". Einstein’s mother was Zulu Babe, a fine mare who also raced.

Einstein (then known as Gray Pappa) made his own name at the track. He did very well from age two until age six. He had a fan club then and still does! He was one of the lucky ones - still healthy and sound at age six, he was purchased by a wonderful woman who knew and understood this horse. At that time his name was changed to Einstein.

Phase two of Einstein’s career was schooling in dressage. Many horses off the track retire from "life in the fast lane" to trails or pasture. Not Einstein. He was too intelligent and bold. This is a horse who will find things to entertain himself with, if you don’t! He has a personality that won’t quit. A wild imagination and unquenchable curiosity. He was very lucky to land in the hands that he did. The woman who owned Einstein was talented and knowledgeable in the sport of Dressage. Einstein picked up the moves like a natural - he was schooled through 3rd level and shown very successfully at 2nd level. An elegant, graceful mover who was admired by many. (notice he has lost his gray dapples!)

What’s next for Einstein? At age 14, Einstein’s owner decided that she had gone as far as she could with him and dressage. It seemed that retirement was in the cards for him. For three years he enjoyed living a quiet life, at home in a peaceful environment. Numerous people were interested in riding, possibly purchasing Einstein - he made it very clear that he was not interested in wearing the "dressage hat" any longer. He launched a few, and played mind games with just about anyone who tried to ride him. His owner recognized signs of boredom. He had a life horses dream of, but something was missing....

At age 17, apparently, he was not yet ready for full retirement. Last year, Einstein came to live at Second Chance Ranch as our honorary alumni and ambassador of goodwill. He has flourished with the company of a "herd", and made numerous horse-buddies. It was not long after he arrived that we learned Einstein has a special gift. He is exceptional with disabled children - in particular, those with cerebral palsy, MS and ADD. How fitting that he would land at a rescue facility. We did not rescue him. He came to rescue us. We are honored and forever grateful that Einstein’s owner chose us for the final journey of his life. He is a treasure, and has taught all of us important lessons.

Recently, I was devastated to find that Einstein needed a life saving surgery. He appeared to be the picture of health until one day he had a nose bleed. We rushed him to Pilchuck Veterinary Hospital (where all our horses are treated). They used a digital scope to look at his sinuses and X-rayed his head. It appeared that he had a large tumor in his upper sinus cavity. Not knowing for sure what the mass was made up of, I was given the choice of a biopsy or surgery. I chose to schedule the surgery for as soon as possible to remove whatever it was, that could possibly be fatal. We were told that it may be necessary to have a blood donor. We drew blood from numerous horses at our barn to find a match - interestingly, the one who best matched Einstein was his best friend, Conan (pictured below). The surgery was completely successful, thanks to Dr. Bryant. The prognosis is good (no cancer found). Pilchuck Veterinary has a wealth of talent and expertise in equine medicine. We are very fortunate to know them. Special thanks to Dr. Bryant who is wonderful to work with and has successfully treated a number of our horses.

Einstein and Conan playing a game of "stick". Inseparable buddies - they relentlessly torment each other all day, and love every second of it!