Volunteer Spotlight: Rob Felicetta - Championing Wild Horse Conservation

March 10, 2022

AWHC Contributor

For this volunteer highlight, the Pinto Post interviewed Rob Felicetta, a volunteer darter and rescue technician, helping to keep the Virginia Range mustangs wild.

How did you get involved in wild horses?

I got involved with the wild horses through Nancy Florence and Deb Walker. Nancy was taking pictures of the wild horses when we met Deb. Deb asked if I'd be interested in becoming a darter for American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) and if Nancy wanted to document. The next thing I know, I'm taking a darting class to learn how to safely administer fertility control to the wild mares.

What is your favorite part of documenting/darting/rescue/range management?

My favorite part of darting is knowing that I'm taking a stand and helping to keep our wild ones wild by humanely managing their population. My favorite part of the horse rescues, besides helping them, is letting them know that no matter what, someone will be there to help them in any way possible and being part of a team that has the same heart for them that I do.

Why are wild horses special to you?

The wild ones are special to me because they show us what a family is all about. They show unconditional love to each other in their family that we could all learn from. Being in their presence and feeling their energy is an amazing experience. We as people have the military to protect and defend us… it is a great feeling to be able to do that for the wild horses.