Read Aslan's Story ^{(In Memoriam)}

Aslan spent his life pulling very large carts and tractors for a living. Though he had a great work ethic, wanted to perform well, and was willing to please, the people who owned him treated him horrifically, beating him with boots, hands, and whips and demanding more from him. He had no kindness, softness, or gentle hands, and, instead, lived in a cold harsh world of work and struggle. In his mid-teens, his lower back started to give out and he started having mobility issues. Instead of healing him or giving him the retirement that he deserved, Aslan was sent to slaughter. Thankfully, our co-founder, Jay Weiner, was at the auction house that day and brought him to The Gentle Barn to finally get the kindness and the retirement that he deserved. Aslan got acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy, fresh, nutritious hay, clean water, soft bedding, daily stretches, hand walking, and the companionship of other horses for the first time in his life. Each staff member, volunteer, and guest who stroked him with gentle hands scratched all of his itch spots, looked him in the eyes, and told him that he was loved made a huge difference in his life.

We were able to keep Aslan mobile for two years to taste the freedom, respect, dignity, and adoration that can only be found in a sanctuary. Finally, his back gave out and he could no longer stand or walk and asked to be set free. Aslan left a 1,800-pound hole in all of our hearts, and we will always and forever remember him. He was a man among men, he was truly remarkable, and we are so grateful that he did not die at the cold hands of strangers at the slaughterhouse, but, instead, surrounded by friends and family at The Gentle Barn while he walked home with grace and dignity. We will continue to tell Aslan's story until there is no longer a horse carriage industry and horses can live in pastures among herds with kind families instead.