Meet Rachel
Rachel Ann is a seasoned professional in donkey training and rescue, with over a decade of experience in the field. Beginning her journey in 2010, she has been passionately rescuing donkeys since 2013. In 2021, she founded Hee-Haw Halfway House Donkey Rescue, which has achieved the status of a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, further solidifying her commitment to animal welfare.
Holding a B.S. in Equine Science from Colorado State University, Rachel graduated with honors, presenting an insightful thesis on Easily Unrecognizable Equine Facial Expressions. This academic foundation enriches her understanding of donkey behavior and care.
Rachel's mission is dedicated to enhancing the welfare of both donkeys and humans globally. As a certified therapeutic riding instructor (CTRI) with PATH Intl., she has been working with individuals with disabilities and at-risk youth since 2001. Her innovative approach to combining her interests led to the training of two mammoth donkeys as therapeutic riding partners, showcasing her unique ability to bridge the gap between human and animal welfare.
An accomplished author, Rachel has published three noteworthy works in her "Starting The Donkey Book Series":
Starting The Ownership Journey with Donkeys: A Guide To Care and Keeping
Starting The Donkey From Scratch: Wild to Mild
Starting the Saddle Donkey: A Training Manual, First Edition
These books are currently available for purchase.
Additionally, Rachel's expertise is recognized within the community, as evidenced by her contributions to various mule and donkey publications, including articles featured in both specialized magazines and in STRIDES, the magazine of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International. Her work continues to inspire many in embracing a compassionate approach towards best practice in donkey care and training.
“Starting The Donkey Book Series”
Making Headlines and Sharing Donkey Wisdom
on print, teaching clinics, and beyond!
Meet Our Board
Tori Seavey:
Vice President
Tori Seavey is a dedicated, long-time enthusiast of longears and a passionate mule mumbler, who has been deeply involved with equine rescue efforts since the year 1995. Tori has cultivated a multifaceted career as a rancher, skilled leather artisan, and equine behavioral specialist. Additionally, she is an accomplished photographer and remains actively engaged with local 4-H programs, promoting education and advocacy for equine welfare in her community.
Trina Garlo:
Secretary
Trina is a dedicated retired teacher and a passionate donkey lover. At this point in her life, she proudly owns two charming donkeys, along with a horse and a goat that add to the lively atmosphere of her homestead. Trina had the pleasure of meeting Rachel several years ago while serving as a volunteer for her well-regarded adaptive riding classes. She feels truly thrilled and fulfilled to be a part of an organization dedicated to helping donkeys find loving and supportive homes, as well as assisting owners in learning the best practices for caring for these remarkable and special equines.
Randy LE Beaumont:
Treasurer
Randy has been a dedicated supporter of the rescue since even before it became an official organization. Over the years, he has generously built fence, bucked and transported hay, and fixed countless items that the donkeys have broken or damaged, always with a smile on his face. He is not only Rachel’s life partner but also her biggest supporter and advocate! In addition to his involvement with the rescue, Randy is a business owner, operating “Randy’s Towing” in Cheyenne, where he is known for his commitment to the community.
Want To Join The Board?
Joining the Donkey Rescue board allows you to make a real difference in the lives of donkeys in need. Specifically, we are most interested in persons with any of the following backgrounds: technology experience, fundraising, tax knowledge, event planning/management, and/or accounting experience. Board members guide the organization’s mission, ensuring resources are used well and strategies support our goals of rescue, education, and advocacy. Your skills and passion can improve the welfare of these animals and raise community awareness. By joining us, you become part of a team focused on enhancing the lives of donkeys and educating the public about their care.
