Charley

When Charley was a foal, he was at an auction feed lot where there were too many horses and not enough food. When food was given, each horse had to fight for his share. Charley learned to fight for his needs to be met, and when he first came to PA in 2003, he was very food aggressive and untrusting. Meagan was the horseless kid in 4H, but the 4H instructor who bought Charley invited Meagan to help train Charley. After a couple years, the instructor realized Charley was bonded to Meagan and sold him to her – and Charley became Meagan’s first horse.

Charley and Meagan did trail rides, 4H and fun shows together until Meagan went to college. She leased Charley out to several other organizations and individuals, but Charley struggled with anxiety and health issues throughout these years. The semester Meagan was graduating college, Charley was suffering with an unknown issue that 3 vets couldn’t diagnose, but Meagan researched and demanded they treat for stomach ulcers – which brought healing finally. When Meagan went out to Crystal Peaks in May/June 2014, they had just started treatment, and nobody was sure if Charley would survive. Meagan stressed the whole trip that she would get an awful phone call! Thankfully, along with treatment, Meagan moved Charley to the first Take Heart farm in Ephrata shortly after the trip to Crystal Peaks, and the pasture, peaceful environment, and daily care restored Charley to full health. God’s timing was perfect.

Charley was the first therapy horse at Take Heart, and man was he good at it! Charley is expressive, personable, and loves attention – but acts grouchy until you know him better. He has a dominant personality, which means you have to earn his trust and respect. He teaches clients to be assertive and authentic, and that there’s more to someone than just a tough outer shell. Charley’s word from God is “Teacher” because he teaches people new ways of doing things and is patient in the process. However, in 2020, after several colics in which Charley almost died, Meagan decided to retire Charley from therapy. One time, Jesus gave Meagan a vision of an angel reaching into Charley’s abdomen to set right the twisted intestines. It wasn’t Charley’s time! Another time, Charley had to go to New Bolton veterinary center for round-the-clock care. Many prayers have gone into this horse – and he has answered many prayers in return.

While he is retired, occasionally a returning client enjoys visiting with him during their session. Meagan and Charley enjoy playful rides together and relaxing in Meagan’s time off.