In 2010, Marlin the mule’s life changed forever. Previously, Marlin had spent all 25 years of his life working hard on his farm of origin.
After this lifetime of hard work, his farm posted him on an auction site with the caveat that if bids did not roll in, he’d be sent to slaughter. This was his last chance to find a new home.
Thankfully, days before his auction ran up, Ann Firestone, president of Save Your Ass Long Ear Rescue, was surfing through that same auction site, and spotted Marlin's photo. From Marlin’s photo alone, Firestone knew that this animal deserved a second chance.
Horses and mules like Marlin are clever creatures. Once Marlin started his new, amazing life with Firestone at her rescue facility, he quickly assimilated to his new, beautiful surroundings, and learned how to be a great mule to ride.
Now every year, Marlin gets a special treat — the chance to trot along the beachfront.
Scroll through below for a look at the fabulous life Marlin the mule now leads thanks to Firestone.
[H/T: The Dodo]
Six years ago, Ann Firestone of Save Your Ass Long Ear Rescue was surfing animal auction sites when she came across the sweetest-looking mule, slated for slaughter.
Firestone told the Dodo, “He was at an auction barn in Pennsylvania, scheduled to ship to slaughter on Christmas Eve. One look into his soulful eyes in the picture was all it took.”
She sent over her $500 “bail” and named him Marlin.
The minute Marlin arrived at Firestone’s rescue facility, Firestone wanted him to feel welcome.
Firestone told the Dodo, “When he arrived at the farm, I told him he would be safe from now on and would never leave.”
To help Marlin transition from his previous life of farm work to his new life of freedom, Firestone signed him up for riding lessons.
Once a week, starting that winter, Firestone took Marlin to riding class.
Their diligence paid off. By springtime, Marlin became a fabulous animal to ride.
After Marlin aced his training, Firestone’s niece, Lily, began taking him out riding.
Firestone explained, “He has been ridden almost exclusively by my niece Lily. He loves her and she adores him. They have a very special bond."
Marlin loves exploring his surroundings. Since becoming an avid rider, he has developed his own favorite set of prime galloping locations.
Which spot is his absolute riding favorite? That would be the beach!
Every year, Firestone takes Marlin and other rescue animals from her facility to the beach for a day of fun in the sun.
She said, “It's so much fun to ride on the beach and the animals love to roll in the sand at ride's end.”
After such a tiresome 25 years, Marlin the mule is finally getting his opportunity to completely enjoy life.
Thanks to Firestone, Marlin is living the most glorious second life, filled with beautiful adventures.
What do you think of Marlin’s story? Have you spent much time with horses or mules? Tell us about your adventures in the comments.
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