Nevaeh, heaven backwards, is a beautiful 24 year old mustang who has come a long way since being brought to Los Molinos. A bucket list dream of Sarah, Gina’s sister, who was ailing with terminal cancer, Nevaeh was a rescue from a ranch where Sarah had worked years before.
Mustangs, known as the wild horses of North America, are highly sensitive and have distinct behavior patterns that help them survive and thrive in the wild. They are known for their strength and independence.

Nevaeh was certainly that and more. When she came to the ranch she was anxious and distrustful. She was unable to settle down, constantly pacing in the pasture, and refused to be haltered. Even in the rain, Nevaeh did not choose to take shelter, but stayed out in the elements.

Over time, as Nevaeh lived on the property, near the other horses, people, and animals on the calming and healing ranch, Gina was slowly able to get closer to her. A major breakthrough happened when a group of social work students came up in the Fall of 2024. Nevaeh showed interest and curiosity as the students gently spent time near her pen. By mid-morning, Nevaeh let a few of them feed her carrots and scratch her nose.

Since being included in the Serene Strides program Nevaeh continues to show signs of trust and comfort. She comes to the fence when visitors arrive and is glad to eat carrots (no apples, thank you) from people’s hands. Due to her resilience, intelligence, and sensitivity, Nevaeh is a star companion animal for Serene Strides – demonstrating to caregivers her intuitive understanding and reflection of human behavior.
Even more exciting is Nevaeh’s new love interest Merle!

Merle, a 6 year old quarter horse, is the latest addition to Serene Strides. He comes to us on loan from his owner with the understanding that we will care for him Spring through Fall, and he’ll spend winters with her – just a few miles away on her property. Merle has some health issues in his hips and feet so we’re glad to have him in our care on the healing ranch. And Nevaeh is thrilled!

Merle & Nevaeh took an immediate liking to each other and now are practically inseparable. They eat side-by-side, drink from the water trough, and hangout together in the pasture. Nevaeh likes to be in charge and Merle is happy to follow her lead.  The only thing he may like better than her is doritos, who can blame him?

Quarter horses are widely recognized for their calm, friendly, and docile disposition. They are known to be willing, trainable, and generally easy to handle, making them perfect partners at Serene Strides. 

Ellie, aka the princess, has been Gina’s trusty companion for most of her 17 years. Gina got Ellie at just 2 years old from a ranch in Washington State and raised her until she was 7. Gina sold Ellie, and unfortunately she was bounced around for a few years, so Gina got her back and now she is the grande dame of the ranch.

Ellie, a quarter horse, is very much her own gal. She does not like the word “no”, or dogs, or being out in the rain. What she does love are belly rubs, apples, carrots, and peppermint. She loves to help people learn. She loves a challenge, likes obstacle courses and trail rides. She is fun and frisky and is enjoying her time with the Serene Strides participants.

Grayson is an 18 year old quarter horse, and our Steady Eddie. He was born and raised on a cattle ranch in nearby Orland where he enjoyed spending time with cows and working ranch life. He came to Gina when he was 11 years old. 

Grayson is a sweet and sensitive horse. He is eager to please and glad to hang out on his own in the pasture. Grayson is athletic and when he is happy he likes to jump around and pirouette! Grayson loves food, and will eat anything that is offered to him. He also enjoys gentle stretches on his nose and belly, and is a reliable friend to all. He is thriving in interactions with the Serene Strides participants.