By Gary Wietgrefe
Rescued mountain horses had the Hilltop Refugio to themselves until an abandoned dog called Victor arrived to prove every animal has a purpose.
After the Hilltop Refugio horse arena was built, a small, brick storage room was secured with an iron gate and lock to protect halters, bridles, and saddles. Locks aren't always infallible, so Victor's job was to protect the tack when nobody was around.
Then cats arrived at the Refugio, and they took up post keeping horse feed free from rodents. But then more dogs showed up and started harassing the cats. That's when Victor put his foot down (so to speak) and made sure the cats were safe too.
Over a decade later, Victor is nearly blind and deaf, and has certainly slowed - but he still keeps things secure and looks out for the cats. Another dog called Jack (with his own interesting story) is now helping Victor.
If you come to the Saturday morning tours of the Hilltop Refugio (9:00-11:00), say “HI” to Victor. He enjoys resting under the cat feed trays or in the cool arena dirt. Please don't surprise him, Victor still takes his protection duties seriously.
Victor's quirky personality led to no adoption for him, but he stands (or lays) as sentinel at the top of the hill . . . as evidence that we all have a purpose.
The Hilltop Refugio is a true refuge.
Victor, Jack, and all the Refugio guests are so very grateful for your support.
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