The mustangs of War Horse Creek are the backbone of our groundwork-focused training program for veterans, an approach we call Collaborative Horsemanship. While we predominantly focus on the unique attributes of mustangs for this type of horsework, we also have three horses that are not mustangs but still excel as intuitive partners. One of these horses, Jozee, is not only one of the most well-trained but is also the head-mare to our herd of horses.

Born May 15, 1999, Jozee’s registered name is Chicaboo’s Asset. Horses are often given flashy registered names which are used for show arenas. They are then given shorter nicknames, or “barn names,” for everyday use. Chicaboo’s Asset gained her barn name of Jozee for Jozee Salinas who was a long time cook at Garner Ranch and a great lady. 

Jozee was bred to be a show horse. Her sire (the father of a horse), her grand sire, and great grand sire were all world champions. Her grand sire and great grand sire are in the Quarter Horse Hall of Fame. Her dam (the mother of a horse) hailed from proud racing blood tracing back to Man O’ War. With all this impressive lineage, Jozee was destined to be a great horse. 

She was born on Diane and Steve Kopp’s ranch in Garner Valley and she knew she was special from the day she was born. Our Executive Director, Ray Barmore and his wife, Dena, saw her as a foal when Ray was working as a farrier (a person who trims and shoes horses’ hooves) at the ranch and all they could say was “Wow.” Ray shares, “I was trimming Jozee’s feet one day when she was about 16 months old and I told Diane that she, Jozee, was her best horse. Diane asked “Why”? My answer was “Look at her, besides being drop dead beautiful look how she’s put together. She’s going to do whatever you want to do with her, performance, halter, cattle, she can do it all.” 

“A couple of months later Diane called me and asked me if I wanted Jozee. I answered “Of course, but I can’t afford that horse.” Diane said “I’m giving her to you.” What a gift she has been.”

Jozee never went into the show ring. Instead she went to work in the real world with Ray. She has had thousands of miles on the trail, packing for the Forest Service. She dislikes towing another horse around behind her, but will carry any load you put on her back. Her favorite activity is working cattle. 

At War Horse Creek, Jozee is known for her bold intelligence. She is also sensitive, making her an ideal horse for groundwork. She is very well trained, which is why she is often used for demonstrating movements in our veteran transition program. She is a great teacher and partner for anyone who has the pleasure of working with her. 

In a herd there is always a “Boss Mare” and at War Horse Creek Jozee is in charge. She rules the pen and pasture and no one challenges her authority. Ray shares, “Jozee is by far the smartest and toughest horse I have owned. She has proven to also be a wonderful horse for the War Horse Creek program, and has touched the lives of many veterans. She is definitely the Grand Dame of War Horse Creek.”