Born in Orange County to a wild Mustang mare, Mustango is a handsome, athletic Mustang gelding with a rich history. His owner, Gayle Gardner, trained him in dressage at nearby Sycamore Trails Stables and helped him become a trusted children’s lesson horse. Mustango later spent more than 15 years on a ranch in Prescott, Arizona, alongside his fellow Shea herd mate, Diego.
 
Why we love him: Mustango is a social guy who can often be found playing with his herd mates in the turnouts or whinnying to anyone walking down the barn aisle. Handsome, willing, and smart, he is a solid and smooth ride and doesn’t overreact when something catches his attention. Instead, Mustango carries his rider with confidence and truly loves to work.

What makes him a great therapy horse: Mustango has a can-do attitude and is already thriving as a therapy horse in the Adaptive Riding program. He is smart and willing, with an exceptionally calm and gentle demeanor. His smooth gaits provide a steady, comfortable ride that builds confidence, especially for independent riders. We can already tell that Mustango will take good care of his riders while helping them develop new skills and confidence along the way.
 
Years of Service: Mustango arrived at The Shea Center in April 2026, and we look forward to seeing him share his experience, gentle nature, and many talents with Shea clients for years to come.

Previous Career(s): Mustango is trained through Second Level dressage and brings many years of experience as a lesson horse, teaching young riders both in the ring and out on trail. During his more than 15 years living in Arizona with his owner, Gayle, Mustango also proudly led pack horses in the Prescott Frontier Days parade.

Stats:
Born: 2002
Breed: Steens Kiger Mustang
Color/Markings: Flea-Bitten Gray
Height: 15.1 hands
Fun fact: Shea’s Equine Team Specialist, Madison Hicks, trained with Mustango as a young girl!