Dear Friends and Supporters,

Our hearts are shattered. Yesterday , we had to say goodbye to Dulche, the incredible mother of our beautiful white colt, Leche. Dulche was euthanized after a heartbreaking battle with a non-metabolic form of laminitis that began in October last year. Despite our best efforts—consulting three different vets and navigating four evolving diagnoses—we couldn’t save her. The final confirmation was severe laminitis, with her coffin bone rotated and dropped, leaving her in unrelenting pain. It was agonizing to watch; even on three pain medications, two insulin treatments, and specialized “Ultimate” shoes, she grew worse each day. Seeing her struggle to walk brought tears to all of us.

Leche turned just three months old on the very day we lost her—far too young to wean, and now utterly heartbroken. He’s calling out constantly, searching for his mom, and the stress is taking a toll. On top of his grief, Leche is dealing with a hernia and lingering leg issues from corrective shoes we fitted shortly after his birth to straighten his limbs. He’s a fighter, but he needs our help to get through this.

We’ve been overwhelmed by the love and messages from so many of you asking how you can support us. Your kindness means the world during this devastating time. Right now, we’re asking for positive thoughts and prayers for Leche’s healing and peace. Any financial contributions, no matter how small, would ease the burden of mounting vet bills and help ensure Leche gets the specialized care he needs to thrive.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us. Every share, donation, and kind word helps heal a little more.

With gratitude,

Laurie and Leche from Ride the West

(Updates will be posted regularly.)