Born: March 2025
Breed: Mustang (born at the sanctuary)
Dam: Rosie
Special Markings: Half-bald face, blue eyes, rich palomino coat
Age: 6 months
Status: Growing Up Strong
Sponsorship Status: 💛 Ready for royal-level support

A Birth Wrapped in Hope

Simba was born into the chaos of a rescue story that spans states, sanctuaries, and survival. His mother, Rosie—a young, malnourished mustang—was pulled from a tragic situation in Texas, where horses were being mass-“bailed” from kill pens only to be neglected by the very sanctuary that raised funds to save them.

No medical care. No feed. No fencing. Stallions turned out with starving mares.

Rosie arrived at Mustang Valley Sanctuary underweight, undernourished, and pregnant. She wasn’t producing milk. There was no colostrum. But there was us. And there was Simba—this perfect, unexpected spark of new life.

He was born in a quiet stall in March 2025, so tiny that at first glance Mary mistook him for a bag of shavings. Within minutes, though, it was clear—this baby had landed exactly where he needed to be.

What a Difference a Village Makes

In the first 24 hours of Simba’s life, a lot had to happen to keep him here.

He was rushed into care, had his blood drawn, received platelet infusions, and his mama was gently brought into milk with the help of medicine and love. It took a vet, a team, and the unwavering mission of Mustang Valley Sanctuary to give him the healthy start he deserved.

And today?

Simba is thriving. He stands for the farrier. He’s halter trained. He gives kisses every morning and is turning heads with his striking dark palomino coat and half-blazed face. And those blue eyes? They’re pure mischief and magic.

The Spirit of Simba

Simba lives up to his name. There’s a regal joy about him, like he knows he’s royalty. But he’s also one of the most grounded, affectionate foals we’ve ever had.

He greets the team with soft nickers. He’s brave, curious, and deeply bonded to humans already. He’s the kind of baby you want to tuck in your jacket and bring everywhere you go. (Mary says exactly that—daily.)

While adoption may be in his future one day, he’ll always be protected by the Mustang Valley umbrella. Every horse that comes through our gates becomes family for life. Simba will never know hunger. Never know abandonment. Never know fear again.

Why Sponsoring Simba Matters

Caring for a growing foal means daily nutrition, veterinary oversight, farrier care, enrichment, and safety—all things Rosie and Simba almost didn’t have. Sponsorship helps us ensure Simba grows up healthy, confident, and surrounded by the love every horse deserves.

As his sponsor, you’ll receive:

• A custom sponsorship certificate

• Regular photos and updates as he grows

• Invitations to come meet him during your next visit

• The deep knowing that you’re part of his beautiful beginning

From Simba

“I thought the world was scary… but turns out it gives kisses and carrots.”
— Simba, the little king in training