Meet Jasmine. Jasmine’s full name is Jasmine Warrior Princess. She earned this name several years ago when she saved our miniature donkey, Eeyore, from a mountain lion. 

A mountain lion had been spotted prowling the property. Ray Barmore and Randall Harris decided they were going to sleep at the stables that night to keep a close eye on the herd. Around 2:30 in the morning there was a stampede, followed by a horrible noise. Startled awake, Ray and Randall heard growling coming from the horse yard. Both men jumped into action and ran towards the commotion, scanning the scene with their flashlights. 

Illuminated before them was a remarkable scene. Jasmine was holding down a very large mountain lion by the back of the neck and beating down on it with her front hooves. Every time the lion tried to get up, Jasmine would lift up and slam back down onto it. Within moments of Ray and Randall’s arrival, Jasmine let the lion go. The lion sulked off, never to be seen again. 

Ray and Randall assessed the herd to make sure everyone was okay. They discovered that Eeyore was badly injured, but none of his injuries were life threatening. He is alive today thanks to the heroic actions of Jasmine Warrior Princess.

Jasmine arrived at War Horse Creek on July 13, 2015, along with two other donkeys, Donald and Eeyore. While we do not ride our donkeys, these hearty animals are known to be protectors and compassionate companions. They are also incredible members of our War Horse Creek program. 

Typically, when we host veterans, they work with our mustangs. However, the donkeys offer invaluable support as well. Recently, one of the veterans, Abe, wanted to connect with our mustang, Libby. He decided to sit on a rock near the herd, hoping to entice Libby to join him. He sat for a while in the sunshine, just enjoying the sound of horses chewing. Then, along came Jasmine. She walked right over to say hello. Together, Abe and Jasmine bonded for a long time. Abe sat petting and talking with her. When he got up to leave, she followed right by his side.

Jasmine has an astounding range as caretaker, protector, friend, and ally. We are so grateful to incorporate donkeys into our equine-assisted reintegration training program and are also constantly humbled by the spirit of Jasmine Warrior Princess.