While working for the Animal Protection Institute with BLM cowboys in the China Lake area rounding up wild donkeys (burros) in December 1980, we came across a two week old foal that was abandoned by his mother and was starving. The cowboys immediately started the little guy on Karo syrup and powdered milk, thru a perforated rubber glove. He was taken to the holding area in Inyokern where he was vetted and put on calf manna and replacement milk. We were allowed to adopt him on the spot because of his condition and my wife trailered him to his new home in Boulder Creek the day before Christmas. Chris quickly amazed us with his great personality and intelligence. He always enjoyed camping with us and our horses, trail riding was always one of his favorites. Christmas was an accomplished showman, winning many times in both saddle and halter classes at mule and donkey shows. Sadly Chris passed away last summer from severe arthritis, complicated by Cushing's disease. He was the greatest companion a family could ever ask for, giving us 28 years of enjoyment and loyalty. We now have a mustang who is sometimes difficult but is showing potential and is now a permanent member of our family. Hap + Su

R. Hap Bullard
Boulder Creek, CA