VALERO - ATFO 2024 Platinum Division

ATFO candidate in training with Katie Amirault at KA Stock Services LLC.* Valero 2015 Appalachian Brumby Palomino gelding 15 hh estimated FEE: $1500 starting bid in August *TRAINING: This horse is part of a special training event called the Appalachian Trainer Face Off. You can learn about it on the ATFO Facebook page or website. Horses in this training event are adoptable in August, following 100+ days of training. Hey, folks! He’s Baack!! That’s right. It’s the one, the only—Valero! Winner of the 2023 ATFO Diamond Division. This beautiful golden boy is back in training, this time competing in the Platinum Division. And though he’s had some health setbacks, his trainer, Katie, says he is SO sweet, intelligent, and gives his all every day. “Someone referred to him as a big cupcake, and I couldn’t agree with that statement more,” Katie says. “Deep down he really just wants to be in your pocket and be your best friend. We’ve broken down a lot of barriers for Valero this past month, and his confidence in himself has grown so much. I’m looking forward to seeing where he goes in the next month!” Valero … Stands quietly to be groomed and bathed (his favorite thing is for his mane to be braided; he licks and chews EVERY time) Is easily caught from the field, in fact most mornings he now waits for Katie at the gate (this is MAJOR progress) Loads onto the trailer Hacks out with a group; enjoys being the leader or following behind Can open and close gates LOVES to play in water! He is still working on … Softening his body through his sides Learning to balance his body and prepare to collect himself Fly spray—Valero has NO love for the evil, horse-dissolving substance—BUT Katie can spray some parts of his body now! Valero has anhidrosis, meaning he doesn’t sweat well, which can lead to him easily overheating. One way to manage this is by feeding him beer! To help jumpstart his sweating, he gets one dark beer with his grain in the mornings. And so far, it’s helped him a TON! (There are also supplements that can help with anhidrosis as well.) Katie says, “Overall, I think he’s one cool dude that is going to make one heck of a horse. If you’re looking for a “mostly” uncomplicated, smooth ride, Valero might be the one for you. Become an approved adopter today and get on the list to meet this awesome little horse. … This guy is quick to learn … Y’all keep your eye on this one, I think he’s going to make someone one heck of a partner.” Follow his progress on #hopteamvalero. Adoption Info: Adoption fees may be outdated, as a horse may have moved into training, so check with us on most current fee. Horses adopted are typically up to date on vaccines, dental floats, farrier care and all vet needs. Horses are typically located in the Appalachian area, but please inquire about a horse's specific location when you apply! We are looking to adopt to safe homes. A history of good horsemanship, the ability to provide sufficient care with good vet, farrier and peer references are important. If you are a first-time horse owner, we will require you to board at a facility for the first year while you learn more about care. We encourage everyone to take advantage of riding lessons. Foal adoptions require previous, established experience with youngsters. Our adoption process makes sure you get the right horse for you – it is a no-fail process for finding the right match. Apply at https://www.wvhorserescue.org/adopt