What lifetime situations help to create a solid and strong citizen? The characteristic of strength is one that is most often discovered during times of pain, suffering and adversity. It is during those times that strength and a deeper sense of trust and empowerment are found within and imprinted forever. Meet Knox! He is the epitome of a horse who has been through much hardship in his life, yet has come to be known as the horse at Red Bucket Equine Rescue who is respected by both humans and horses as a stand-up individual with leadership qualities and a great sense of “horse” humor. It has been said that you cannot really be strong until you see a funny side of things, and that sums up Knox’s personality perfectly!

Knox came to Red Bucket from a hoarding situation about a year and a half ago. He was part of a large group that included 14 horses. Knox is an adorable 14.2 hand high quarter horse-mustang cross with a long white blaze running down almost the length of his face and a white belly. Knox is unique, both in looks and personality. He is a leader and a boss with the disposition of a quarter horse and is an amazing participant in the paddock antics of the lovable “Knuckleheads!”

The “Knuckleheads” are a group of horses that go out into the paddock together like a herd to play, kick up their heels and just have time being “horses.” Knox is the selfappointed leader of this band. He is always the last one out to the paddock; otherwise he overly greets the others. He is also the first one to go back into his stall after their turn out time because he’s the boss and he says so! The original “Knuckleheads” consisted of Banjo, Turner, Cash, Knox, and Liam. Since then, Banjo has been adopted, Cash has gone to pasture, and Dr. Suess has joined the happy line-up. As a compatible grouping, they go out together for enrichment play and freedom to run around like, yes, “knuckleheads!” Horses are herd animals, and this kind of play is great for their mental attitude making them feel as if they are in a more natural environment.

Even though Knox enjoys his playtime, he is a great riding horse and has a western persona as a “dude.” He is a solid citizen on the trail and enjoys being out and about. Because of his history of betrayal and abandonment from humans, he is not outwardly open; however, when the right person comes along and dotes on him, he will repay the kindness with gratitude, trust and love. Knox is eagerly waiting for someone to love him and to become part of his own “herd” that includes a human. With his darling looks and his dashing attitude and unique personality, Knox will make someone a very happy new horse owner. Knox is ready to take that chance; he is waiting patiently for his forever human to come and take him home!