Where Are They Now?

This page is dedicated to the incredible donkeys, horses, and wild burros we’ve had the honor of working with at Famous Shamus Farm. Each animal featured here has been gently trained, carefully socialized, and thoughtfully matched with a loving forever home.

Many came to us scared, shut down, or unsure of humans — and through time, patience, and consent-based training, they found their confidence and their people. These success stories represent the heart of our mission: building trust, restoring hope, and giving rescued animals a fresh start.

We are proud to celebrate their journeys, and grateful to the families who opened their hearts and homes.

Valhalla

Valhalla is one of the "Golden Girls" you will hear us refer to sometimes in the videos.

Want to see more of Valhalla’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsbQaSM18EB_omXDiEhzORiC&si=P0c7_F5mCoKMj0Cf

Grace

Grace is one of the "Golden Girls" you will hear us refer to sometimes in the videos.

Want to see more of Valhalla’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsY7yawm9FjoVwys0IWoa2nV&si=cOXfG-8wmNWZgFuQ

Aw

Aw is one of the "Golden Girls" you will hear us refer to sometimes in the videos.

Want to see more of Aw's transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsadS30u5rGnSSy-dxCzQSiF&si=Sg_JoIw9x_QNdRHA

Daphne

Daphne’s Found Her Home, with her gentle spirit and soft, searching eyes, reminded us so much of Valhalla from the moment she arrived. Like Valhalla, she was timid at first—quiet, watchful, and unsure—but we knew that behind that cautious exterior was a heart full of potential.

And we were right.

Through time, patience, and trust, Daphne began to open up—and in that process, she found her forever person. The bond they’ve created is something truly special: the kind that grows slowly and roots deeply.

Though she’s no longer available for adoption, Daphne’s story is a shining example of what these burros are capable of when given a chance. From uncertain beginnings to unconditional connection—she’s proof that the quietest ones often love the loudest.

Want to see more of Daphne’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsZzqy9qiUZeyda87diNa-nr&si=PGTmVkBib6r8wgES

Velma

Velma’s Found Her Home Velma came to us with a spark that reminded us so much of Grace—brave, alert, and full of quiet determination. While others hesitated, Velma stepped forward. She faced new experiences with cautious courage, always willing to try, always watching, learning, and slowly blooming.

That bravery paid off.

Velma has found her forever home—a place where her strength is honored and her heart is cherished. Like Grace before her, Velma has proven that when a burro dares to trust, the connection forged is something truly lasting.

Though she’s no longer available for adoption, Velma’s story is a beautiful reminder of the resilience and loyalty these wild-hearted souls carry. She’s gone from brave beginnings to a bonded life, and we couldn’t be happier for her.

Want to see more of Velma’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsbeAXBj9OHDD1Eua2yKAPXM&si=EQgcsa8O11uqCiJx

Shaggy and Scooby (Yuno)

Shaggy & Scooby’s Happy Ending Shaggy and Scooby have found the sweetest kind of forever home—one shared by a loving grandmother and her grandson, brought closer together by a shared bond with donkeys. It’s a beautiful reminder that these special animals don’t just touch individual lives—they bring people together across generations.

Both Shaggy and Scooby won hearts here with their charming personalities, and now they’re continuing their journey in a home where they’re not just adored, but part of a family story that will be treasured for years to come.

Though they’re no longer available for adoption, their journey is a joyful example of the healing, laughter, and love burros bring into our lives.

Want to see more of their transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsaKsdS5-3NU7ZGy2yNQLg5v&si=2xzrR0_voL83Qc34

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsaKsdS5-3NU7ZGy2yNQLg5v&si=qBRcjiPDbc2YZVCK

Poncho

The oldest wild Donkey I have ever gentled and trained has a very special spot in my heart!

Want to see more of Poncho's transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsa54bfr52vUDvolDf0ML1tf&si=RfZXV-ADmNc0D0rT

5 Wild Tales

Cisco

Trust was hard earned but worth every second, I learned so much working with him!

Want to see more of Cisco’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsa54bfr52vUDvolDf0ML1tf&si=RfZXV-ADmNc0D0rT

5 Wild Tales

Juliet

She had a rougher start than most, she turned into a big teddy bear.

Want to see more of Juliet’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsa54bfr52vUDvolDf0ML1tf&si=RfZXV-ADmNc0D0rT

5 Wild Tales

Romeo

Romeo has his forever home he will be working with kids through a youth mentoring program!

Want to see more of Romeo’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsa54bfr52vUDvolDf0ML1tf&si=RfZXV-ADmNc0D0rT

5 Wild Tales

Abby

Abby has also found her forever home and gets lots of love and carrots!

Want to see more of Abby’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsa54bfr52vUDvolDf0ML1tf&si=RfZXV-ADmNc0D0rT

5 Wild Tales

Stein

Stein became part of our herd in June 2024, he found his forever family July of 2025. His transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. When he arrived, Stein was reactive and often slipped into freeze mode, but through patience, consistency, and trust-building, that chapter is now behind him.

Over the past year, we’ve focused on developing his confidence and coping skills—and it’s paid off. In June 2025, Stein attended the Foundation Clinic with Ty Evans Mulemanship (yes, it’s not just for mules—we’ve brought plenty of donkeys and horses, too). He did wonderfully, and if it had been a colt-starting clinic, he’d be ready for the next steps. That said, we prefer to wait until our young ones turn three before beginning under-saddle work in earnest.

Following the clinic, Stein soaked up the excitement of Mule Day, surrounded by carts, cattle, and crowds. He took it all in stride, showing calm curiosity and resilience. He’s excelling at his groundwork, leads and ties confidently, handles his feet well, trailers smoothly, and has already worn a saddle.

As part of our YouTube channel, we featured Stein in a unique gentling and training comparison series alongside Doc, our young donkey. The series explores how the training process differs between a mustang and a wild burro—and offers a close-up look at their individual journeys, challenges, and big-hearted breakthroughs.

Stein tries with his whole heart and is becoming a truly exceptional horse. Watching him grow from fearful to trusting has been one of the most rewarding parts of our journey together.

Want to see more of ’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsY4mqbloRagr5ueePDe6Yu9

5 Wild Tales

Blackjack and Joker

Blackjack and Joker have found their forever home. They are two of the most delightful donkeys we've had the pleasure of working with. Their courage knows no bounds, and they absolutely adore attention—especially pets and scratches. Joker is just starting to warm up to oats and still prefers affection over treats, while Blackjack is all in for both love and snacks. Both donkeys are excellent with their hooves, trailer calmly, lead with ease, and are progressing beautifully with saddle training, including pack saddles and being ponied behind a horse.

Want to see more of Blackjack and Joker’s transformation? Follow his journey on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcwCBLJHEzsa54bfr52vUDvolDf0ML1tf

5 Wild Tales