Rest in Sweet Peace, Ruby

In Loving Memory of Our Ruby

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news of a profound loss to our sanctuary family. 

This past July 2025, we said our final, heartbreaking goodbye to Ruby, the extraordinary and beloved mule who held such a special place at Rancho Burro.

Ruby was magnificent—a harmonious blend of horse and donkey, and the one and only mule in our herd. We first met her in November 2017, when we rescued her from the bleak fate of a Texas holding pen, just in time to save her from being shipped to a rendering plant in Mexico. Her stunning, red-hued coat, powerful draft build, and sleek blond mane made her a truly unique and beautiful sight.

At an estimated 30+ years old, Ruby’s long life was a testament to her resilience. The hardships of her early years eventually took their toll, wearing down her teeth and making it difficult for her to chew hay. We lovingly prepared special meals of hay cubes to ensure she was always nourished and comfortable. Though she stood out from the rest, her distinctive nature was always embraced by the herd, only adding to her incredible charm.

Ultimately, the damage from her life before rescue caught up with her, and she passed peacefully from complications stemming from that time. While we are heartbroken, we find deep comfort in knowing that because of our sanctuary, her final years were not filled with fear, but with peace, dignity, and the love she so richly deserved.

Ruby embodied strength, grace, and the beauty of being different. 

Rest in peace, sweet girl. Your powerful, gentle spirit will be deeply missed.