Heber, Arizona – On April 26, wild horse advocate Betty Nixon responded to an emergency after receiving a message from photographer friends about a horse stuck in a drying dirt water tank.

The tank, known to Nixon as a danger zone, had been monitored closely in recent weeks. She had visited it the night before to make sure no horses were trapped. Nixon had also contacted the Forest Service for weeks, offering to haul water and prevent such incidents.

Around noon, she got the message: “Need help. Horse drowning in mud.”

Nixon grabbed tow ropes and a helpful neighbor, rushing to the scene. A couple with a UTV had already arrived and freed a young foal from the mud. They were now working to save the mare.

Seven people in total worked for over an hour to rescue the exhausted horse, whose foal called from the bank. The group was careful to avoid injury to both the horse and themselves.

Andy, one of the rescuers, repeatedly entered the mud to adjust the tow rope. Initially, the rope was placed around the mare’s neck, with special knots used to prevent choking. As the mare struggled to rise, the team pulled with her efforts, stopping to let her rest when needed.

Eventually, they were able to reposition the rope behind her haunches and gently pull her forward. After more than an hour, the mare stood on shaky legs and rejoined her foal. The two walked off into the forest.

Nixon notified the Forest Service and is awaiting action to prevent future incidents. She praised the teamwork and dedication of the group involved.

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