Michele Enck never anticipated discovering a second beloved equine companion in her life. Based in Maryland, Enck currently holds the position of stakes coordinator for The Maryland Jockey Club, a role she advanced into from her previous capacity as a horse identifier.
Several years prior, as she was working in her Pimlico office, Jessica Hammond made a visit to Enck’s workspace. Hammond holds the executive director position at Beyond the Wire, an organization dedicated to arranging secure and beneficial homes for thoroughbreds retired from racing in Maryland.
Three years earlier, Enck experienced the loss of her pony, which had been her initial soulmate horse.
“I honestly believed I wouldn’t encounter another equine companion so special again,” she commented. “Yet, I did.”
On that particular day, Hammond approached Enck’s window and declared, “I believe I’ve located your horse.” She presented an image of a bay horse called Rebound. Rebound’s gentle gaze and charming features instantly resonated with Enck. His more compact stature, less than 16 hands, was an added advantage, but Enck instinctively sensed an extraordinary quality about him.
“I responded, ‘You truly discovered my horse,’” she recounted.
Born on April 16, 2013, Rebound is a bay gelding whose early life unfolded in Ireland, subsequently passing through auctions at Goffs and Tattersalls. His path ultimately led him to Maryland.
Rebound was adopted via The Foxie G Foundation, an organization recognized by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance. Laurie Calhoun from The Foxie G Foundation collaborates extensively with Beyond the Wire. Beyond the Wire collaborates with certified stables to assist in relocating horses to new residences.
For the subsequent three months, Enck visited Rebound weekly at The Foxie G Foundation, concurrently seeking an appropriate stable for him to commence his new phase of life. Thanks to Calhoun’s direction, the adoption procedure unfolded without any complications.
“[Laurie] streamlined my adoption experience immensely,” Enck stated. “Even now, she provides assistance whenever I require guidance concerning Rebound.”
“Rebound receives affection and attention every single day,” Enck further commented.
Having now adjusted to his current existence, Enck and Rebound regularly partake in trail excursions together, typically once or twice each week – a routine Enck mentioned Rebound absolutely adores.
Both the equine and its companion began their journey entirely from a foundational level, lacking formal instruction. Enck’s ultimate aspiration was straightforward yet profound: to independently explore trails with her horse. They accomplished this objective as a team.
“My sole desire was for him to return my affection with equal intensity,” she remarked. “And we’ve certainly achieved that.”
Rebound’s amiable disposition extends beyond just Enck. He appears to charm every individual he encounters, be they other horses or diverse creatures.
“Rebound is genuinely cherished by every horse and all manner of animals that cross his path,” Enck commented. “He is genuinely unique.”
To Enck, Rebound symbolizes something deeper than merely a successful adoption. He stands as evidence that occasionally, quite unexpectedly, another cherished equine friend can enter one’s existence.
The Jockey Club backs numerous aftercare endeavors, among them the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, which serves as the exclusive certifying organization in post-racing care, and the Thoroughbred Incentive Program (T.I.P.), aimed at promoting the re-training of Thoroughbreds for various other disciplines once their racing careers conclude. Explore all programs championed by The Jockey Club.
