A two-year-old filly, Mustang, with her gentle spirit
and boundless love, possessed an enchanting charisma
that captivated all who crossed her path.
LIL' GAL
UNFORGETTABLE BONDS
The gift of mustangs is undeniable, their spirit and adaptability serve as a constant reminder of the beauty and majesty of nature. They touch hearts and inspire connections that transcend boundaries and generations.
LI'L GAL: A MUSTANG'S JOURNEY
OF HEART AND CONNECTION
In 2005, I was informed about some mustangs at the Litchfield BLM holding facility falling under the “Three Strikes” Sales Authority Act, allowing anyone to purchase them. Among them, I chose a two-year-old filly to train for our adoption program. Her only flaw was that she wasn’t a horse of color, but rather a little bay horse. Many adopters prioritize color when selecting a wild horse.
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From the moment she walked into my horse trailer without a fuss, I knew she was special. I named her Li’l Gal, knowing she wouldn't stay with me permanently. While I typically allow wild mustangs to acclimate to their new surroundings for a few days before training, Li’l Gal showed immediate promise. She approached me cautiously, allowing me to halter her and teach her to lead the very next day. Her training progressed exceptionally well, and she demonstrated a willingness to learn and perform tasks.
Despite our initial intention to find a special person to adopt her, we couldn't part with Li’l Gal after failing to find the right match at the adoption event. Over time, she transformed into a beautiful bay horse with an exceptional mind. Our bond deepened, and she became a positive representation of what a mustang could achieve with proper training.
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Li’l Gal served as the ambassador for the Mustangs of America Foundation, accompanying me to equine events and adoptions to educate the public about mustang adoptions. In 2008, she made history as the first mustang to represent her breed at a prestigious event, captivating audiences with her charm and charisma.
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One memorable encounter occurred during a public event when Li’l Gal approached a man in an electric wheelchair, offering him comfort and companionship. It was a touching moment that showcased her intuitive nature and ability to connect with people on a profound level.
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Under the expert guidance of renowned trainer Lanny Leach, Li’l Gal further honed her skills, solidifying her reputation as a paragon of resilience and grace. However, illness eventually took its toll, and we were faced with the difficult decision to say goodbye. Years later, I still cherish the memories of Li’l Gal and the profound impact she had on my life.
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Forever blessed, Lynda Sanford.
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