Eden M. has had a lifelong passion for horses, which has led her family to explore adoption options. After being encouraged by her 4-H instructor, Eden’s parents, Cheri and James, began their search for a horse and were directed to the ASPCA’s My Right Horse platform. They discovered Rip Van Winkle, a senior American Quarter Horse with severe allergies, and felt an immediate connection despite his health challenges.

Rip had been surrendered due to his allergies, which caused significant hair loss, but after being treated at the ASPCA’s Equine Transition and Adoption Center (ETAC), he began to recover. Cheri and her family traveled to Oklahoma to meet Rip, and after a successful introduction, they adopted him on February 28, 2025. Eden quickly bonded with Rip, who proved to be a calm and reliable companion.

Now, Rip is receiving medication to manage his allergies and is thriving, with his mane and tail starting to grow back. Eden and Rip have begun barrel racing training, and the family is thrilled with their new addition. Cheri expresses gratitude for the adoption experience and emphasizes their intention to return to My Right Horse if they decide to adopt again, highlighting the abundance of wonderful horses available for adoption.