Meet the Family
At Wilde Child, the animals aren't just animals, they are apart of the family. Enjoy some background stories and introductions of the Wilde Child Family!!
The Wilde Child
Mackenzie Wilde (Kenz)
Having grown up in the equine industry, I've always known I wanted to train horses. With multiple internships under my belt ranging from a variety of disciplines - I found my passion working with mustangs, problem horses, and starting colts. With a bachelor's degree in equine science, I have written several books on equine-related matters and run my business full-time in Northern AZ.
Thing is - I stepped away from traditional methods. Having worked with some of the most aggressive horses across the country, I learned that being the boss of the horse isn't always the way to go. Utilizing a mixture of positive and negative reinforcement, my methods focus primarily on science-based practices. Not only do I apply this in my everyday life helping horses in need, but I use my online prescence to educate others as well. To create a better world for the horses we all love so much - it all starts with raising awareness.
Equine
Phileo's Blessing (Phileo)
Phileo is a BLM Mustang from Triple B, Nevada. He was originally trained by a fellow TIP Trainer, only to come to Wilde Child to further his training. He is spunky and energetic, but the gentlest horse you'll ever meet. He has lived quite the life - between his career as a trick horse, liberty performer, and more, he has won the hearts of many. However, Phileo is now retired due to kissing spine, and will get to live out the rest of his life playing in the pasture at Wilde Child.
Hey There Delilah (Delilah)
Delilah is a BLM Mustang who used to call the mountains of Nevada her home. Before coming to Wilde Child in April 2018, two other trainers were unsuccessful at taming her wild and reckless spirit. Delilah struggled with severe aggression issues, and Mackenzie was determined to tame her. After countless hospital visits and two and a half of years of trying, Delilah has become one of the favorites at the barn. She is our number one horse for just about anything, as she is extremely well-rounded. With the friendliest personality, all you have to do is give her a peppermint and she'll love you forever.
Rebel Hearts (Rebel)
Rebel is a mare from the Havasupai Indian Reservation who struggled with extreme aggression. After coming to Wilde Child as a sanctuary horse for extensive training, she has opened up into quite the mare!! She's sweet, sassy, and has a confident yet willing personality! Rebel thrives when working at liberty and can do a number of tricks. Starting her under saddle has been quite the lengthy journey, however we refuse to give up and will get her there someday!
Legendary Moose (Legend)
Legend is a draft cross bred and raised on a small ranch in Florence, Arizona. Upon looking for more horses to build our team, we purchased Legend. He is in the process of being started under saddle, but is the most eager and willing horse you will ever meet. He just wants to be involved, whether you're doing day-to-day activities or traveling to an event. With the personality of a teddy bear, you can't help but give him a big bear hug!!
Chaos
Chaos is the offspring of Hey There Delilah and Smokey Mountain. She was born March 23, 2024. Since Chaos is relatively new to world, she will spend the next several years growing up and learning the basics of groundwork and the foundations of liberty work.
Canine
Kash
Echo
Kash is a red heeler mix and my seizure alert dog. He was originally trained as a service dog by his former owner, but after some personal matters he had to be rehomed. I took him in, went to some more classes for training, and he's quite the awesome boy!! He loves sticks, cuddling in bed, and going on adventures!
Echo's breed is unknown, and he was rescued alongside his litter by a non-profit organization. When our team was doing a performance at a holiday event, he was the only puppy at the rescue's booth who didn't find a home for Christmas. So we just had to take him in, and now he loves to talk to the horses, stargaze, and take up the couch!
Buster
Buster is a chihuahua mix who came from a family filled with rambunctious kiddos. Due to the children not treating him very well, he was surrendered to Wilde Child! He went from being a skittish, fearful little guy to a friendly, social dog who loves attention! His favorite past-time is laying in sun and greeting everyone who comes to visit!
Zoe
Zoe is a Pyreneese/Antolian Shepherd Mix. We do not know much about her history, however she is quite the rambunctious pup! If she's not tearing things to shreds, she's playing in the snow, cuddling with the livestock, or scavenging for random items in the forest.