Our Animal Rescue Stories
Did you know Chamberlin Pony Rides began back in 2000 as an animal rescue operation? Our very first mission was to save animals in need and give them the safe, loving homes they deserved.
As we grew, we realized something powerful: by sharing our animals with people, we could do even more good. Every smile, every gentle pat, every moment of connection helps foster compassion and appreciation for animals. When children and families meet our animals in person, it’s not just fun – it’s an unforgettable experience that inspires people to stand up against cruelty and protect animals everywhere.
At Chamberlin, animal care comes first. Our furry, feathered, and hoofed friends live long, happy lives—well beyond the average farm animal’s lifespan—because they are cherished members of our family. They enjoy comfortable homes, regular care, and most importantly, the love and affection of thousands of children and adults they meet each year.
We are proud to continue our mission: rescue, care, educate, and advocate.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Together, we can make the world a kinder place for animals.
Enjoy these touching stories of second chances and love.
Olive
She was born a Budweiser Clydesdale, but because her front leg was black, she was sold at auction. The people who bought her kept her until she was about three and a half, but they were intimidated by her size and tried to control her with force and fear. By the time we found her, she had been drugged, and when it wore off, she became the most aggressive horse I had ever seen. We couldn’t touch her — she would kick, bite, stomp, and charge if anyone came near. Trainers told me over and over to give up on her, that she would never be a safe or gentle horse.
But I couldn’t give up. Slowly, with patience, trust, and love, everything changed. Today, at 17 years old, she is the sweetest, most lovable horse I could ever ask for. The key is that she still needs me close by to feel safe, but I wouldn’t trade that bond for anything. She is truly my heart horse — the one I trust completely now, even after all the battles we had to fight together.
Honeybun
Honeybun’s journey is a beautiful reminder of what love and second chances can do. When her mother passed away unexpectedly, the farmer who owned her was devastated but unable to care for an orphaned calf. Without help, Honeybun’s future looked uncertain.
That’s when our amazing event manager, Melissa, stepped in. Without hesitation, she brought Honeybun home and began bottle-feeding her around the clock. With patience, care, and endless dedication, Melissa helped Honeybun grow stronger each day until she was thriving.
Now, Honeybun is a happy, healthy calf who adores attention and spreads joy everywhere she goes. She’s living proof of the heart behind what we do — giving animals in need a safe, loving home and sharing their warmth with the community.
Rudy
Rudy’s story is nothing short of inspiring. He was rescued from a kill pen — a heartbreaking place where horses are sold for slaughter. Completely blind and very sick, Rudy’s chances for survival seemed slim. In fact, he was purchased by a kill buyer for only $5, and it’s hard to believe that such a sweet and innocent soul was so close to being thrown away.
Thankfully, Rudy’s story didn’t end there. Ashley and Mike stepped in and gave him the second chance he deserved. With love, care, and patience, Rudy made a full recovery and found his forever home.
Today, Rudy is thriving as a beloved companion and even a party pony extraordinaire for a very lucky little boy. From almost being loaded onto a truck bound for slaughter to becoming someone’s best friend, Rudy’s journey is a powerful reminder of the difference compassion can make.
Tinkerbell
Tinkerbell is a tiny Holland Lop bunny with a very big story. She was rescued from a rabbitry in Monroe, MI, where hundreds of rabbits were kept in small cages without sunlight, grass, or freedom. Because of her small size, she couldn’t be bred — and in places like that, it often means being discarded or worse.
Thankfully, Event Managers Brandy and Jason stepped in and gave Tinkerbell the loving home she deserved. At first, she was shy and unsure of people, but with patience and gentle care, she has blossomed into a happy, curious little rabbit.
Today, Tinkerbell not only thrives in her new life but is also learning to accept love from the children she meets at our events. Her journey reminds us that even the smallest animals deserve compassion, safety, and a second chance at life.
Gingerbread & Charlie
Sometimes the smallest and most fragile animals turn out to have the biggest hearts. Meet Charlie and Gingerbread, two very special sheep rescued by our amazing Event Managers Melissa and Bryan. Charlie, white and tan, was born with a broken leg and unable to nurse from his mom. At just 3 days old, he came to live with Melissa. With lots of love, care, and many doctor visits, he grew into a big, strong boy.
Not long after, his ½ sister Gingerbread, tan and black, was struggling as the runt of the flock. She wasn’t growing fast and wasn’t seen as “worth much for meat.” Instead of that fate, the farmer reached out — and she came to join Charlie, finding love and safety in her new forever home.
Now, Charlie and Gingerbread spend their days together, healthy and happy, spreading joy to all the children and families they meet.
We’re so grateful to Melissa and Bryan for opening their hearts and giving these two sweet souls a second chance at life.
Chewy
Chewbacca — lovingly called Chewy — was no ordinary sheep. She was the heart of Mel’s Farm and the one who started it all.
Chewy’s story began in hardship. For nearly 10 years, she was kept at a sheep barn and used only to produce lambs for meat. When her health declined, she was sent to auction with her newborn babies, destined for slaughter. That’s where fate stepped in. Mel saw her, looked into her sad eyes, and knew she couldn’t leave her behind. Chewy and her babies were rescued that day and finally brought home.
Once she regained her strength, Chewy’s personality truly shined. She was bold, unforgettable, and always full of surprises. Whether it was getting painted purple at a birthday party, making a big impression at a nursing home visit, or belting out her famous “BAAAA” that turned heads everywhere, Chewy made people smile wherever she went. She even became locally known for standing tall in the trailer and loudly greeting the world at every red light.
Chewy wasn’t just a sheep — she was family. She was the farm’s mascot, its spirit, and its beginning. She lived a long, happy life surrounded by love, and when she passed peacefully of old age, she left behind a legacy of joy, laughter, and healing that continues to inspire everyone who knew her.
Chewy will always be remembered as the sheep who changed everything. ❤️🐑
Blackberry
Blackberry is a 20-year-old llama who came to Chamberlin with her two younger companions, Red and Wookie. Their former owner, an elderly woman moving into assisted living, wanted nothing more than for them to stay together as a family.
Because of her age and shy nature, Blackberry was overlooked by others — but here at Chamberlin, she’s found a safe and loving home. After receiving the care she needed, Blackberry now enjoys the peace of her golden years, grazing in the pasture with her llama family by her side.
She may not seek out people the way the younger llamas do, but Blackberry’s quiet presence is a reminder that every animal, no matter their age, deserves dignity, safety, and love. ❤️
Big Pete
About six years ago, we rescued Big Pete from a kill pen at the Topeka Draft Horse Sale. He came to us blind in one eye, but that has never slowed him down. Now around 30 years old, Pete continues to shine — winning ribbons at our local county fair and stealing hearts in youth showmanship competitions with his calm, gentle spirit.
Pete is as versatile as he is kind — from giving rides to pulling a cart or carriage, he does it all like a pro. He’s spoiled in the best way, and we feel blessed every day to have him as part of our family.
— Chamberlin Event Managers, Tom & Kim
