By Janet McAfee
A Wild West adventure trip to the Genuine Draft Horse Ranch is planned for the October 17 Yappy Hour with Loving All Animals. This is your chance to visit this lovely 5 acre wonderland filled with animals nestled in a tree lined canyon in Morongo Valley. The ranch is a Shangri-La for animal lovers, and home to some treasured draft horses.
Tucked away on a dead end street against the rocky hills, the Ranch is a hidden Coachella Valley treasure. Just 20 minutes from bustling Palm Springs, a visit to this Western themed compound takes you back to the ambiance of California’s old West. The breeze sweeps through this enchanted place, soothing the fur and the souls of the animals who dwell therein.
Twenty three years ago, Galiena and Gary Jacobs were horseback riding when they discovered a house for sale in a canyon. A former rodeo queen, Galiena has an extensive background with horses. Galiena and Gary are a creative team, and their imagination has spawned additional features to enhance the property. A haunted saloon is currently under construction.
During a recent visit, we were greeted by three of the five resident dogs. A large tree along the driveway is adorned with a collection of dangling cowboy boots. We toured the main house filled with Western artifacts, several bird aviaries, a general store, the tack house, a pig habitat, and the arena for a miniature horse and burro. The fully equipped Wild West Saloon has bars stools made from a collection of Western saddles. We stopped in for a quick nip.
The highlight was meeting the Draft Percheron horses. Two black horses, Turk and Tess, were in their stalls in the beautifully adorned barn. Tara and Titan, a stunning white pair, frolicked in an outdoor corral. The horses have been featured in many local parades and events, pulling their Roman chariot or lovely carriage.
Draft Percheron horses are intelligent, noble creatures. These strong muscular animals originated in France, bred to perform heavy tasks such as towing. Galiena explains, “I have a passion for the Draft horses. These sweet gentle giants are part of our lives, and that’s what makes their personalities come out. They are like large dogs, and happily greet us when we arrive home.”
The Ranch and Wild West saloon are available to rent for private functions. The site has been a setting for weddings, birthday parties, family reunions, holiday events, and corporate meetings. Planning a honeymoon or a romantic evening? The “Love Nest” suite, an A-frame room secluded atop the barn, provides relaxing romance amidst the desert serenity. You and your guests are transported to the charm of a bygone era. This special place is truly a labor of love.
Join Loving All Animals for the Wild West Yappy Hour on October 17. The Ghostlight Trio, a “Genuine” honky tonk Rock-A-Billy band, will perform. The music will set the mood as you meet the ranch critters, enjoy Western style grub, and drink a beer at the saloon. The cost is $20 if you drive yourself, or $30 to ride the party bus. The bus leaves Palm Desert at 5:15 pm or meet us at the Ranch at 6:00 pm. Proceeds from the evening benefit homeless Coachella Valley animals. Costumes are optional.
For reservations to Yappy Hour go to www.lovingallanimals.org or call (760) 834-7003. Advanced reservations are required for the bus. For more information about the Ranch view their website at www.genuinedrafthorseranch.com or call (760) 363-1912.
