Jennifer L. Buck Stables

Macho Rocket was foaled with intent. He was raced with intent. He was bred with intent. And, he was dumped with intent. 💔

Macho Rocket sold for $825K as a two-year-old-in-training and was purchased by Frank Fletcher Racing, and then sent to Bob Baffert to begin his “career.” Rocket “won” his first race, earning $27,000. But as is so often the case, he suffered a career-ending tendon injury in that race. Done, at the age of two.

Rocket began his stud career in 2012 at Starfish Stallions; in 2013, he was moved to the University of Arkansas where he spent years as a breeding stallion. After that, Rocket’s trail becomes unclear. His whereabouts between leaving the university and appearing in a Nebraska “herd dispersal sale" are unknown. What we do know is that in 2026, at 17 years of age, Rocket found himself at an auction and was purchased by a kill buyer.

A thoroughbred who once sold for $825K, was trained by one of the most recognized names in racing, and who had spent years serving in the breeding industry, was now facing a future end at the slaughterhouse.

Luckily, Macho Rocket was rescued by Candice Ensign of Journey With Equus. Ensign contacted Macho Rocket's prior connections, including Baffert's team, but received no response. To date, JWE has received zero financial support from individuals or organizations connected to Rocket’s racing and breeding careers. Macho Rocket will remain in permanent sanctuary with Journey With Equus. ❤

Please stop by! Literally around the corner from the barn!

3531 Ebenezer ct

10-1

Case 26-0554, arrived July 10:

A McDonough resident found this juvenile female Great Horned Owl in a metal drum that had previously held petroleum products. The finder tipped the barrel over so the owl could fly off but she had not left by the next morning. Since the finders could not make it to CNC before we closed, they took her to our colleagues at Bells Ferry Veterinary Hospital for triage. After several baths over several days to minimize stress, the fuel odor finally started to dissipate and she was transferred to CNC. She arrived with minor pain response in both wings and legs, likely from trying to get of the barrel before she was found. The owl is defensive, eating quite well, and smells much better, but still has some minor irritation to both eyes. enclosure soon.
You can see her initial intake photos on Bells Ferry's page.