Volunteer Spotlight: Dee Tucker

Originally from Arkansas, Dee moved to Steamboat Springs full-time four years ago and is one of our Routt County volunteers. A regular visitor to the area since the mid-80s, he also has a daughter who has lived in Steamboat for twenty years. It’s been a good place for him to semi-retire while still practicing dentistry part time.

Dee has been volunteering at MVHR for about two years. He said, “I sought out MVHR because I love animals, especially dogs and horses, and especially those in need.” Dee usually works a morning chore shift mucking, watering and feeding hay. He also enjoys spending time talking with the horses and petting them, especially the new arrivals in quarantine. We know the newcomers appreciate the warm welcome and extra love he gives them as they adjust to life at the Rescue.

Growing up in Arkansas, Dee got a horse when he was ten years old who he loved and was his best friend for many years. Since it doesn’t fit for him to have horses of his own right now, volunteering at MVHR has been the perfect way to spend time with them. “It feels so good to have the horses rush to me for their hay, or come get a big drink of water when I show up with the tank,” he said. He also finds pride in looking back at a clean corral!

While Dee enjoys spending time with all the horses, Roman is his favorite. Those of you who know Roman, know he can be a little difficult at times, but Dee says they understood each other right away. It just goes to show the power of connection between humans and horses. And when it comes to the benefits of volunteering at MVHR, Dee described it best when he said, “I can give to horses who need it, and they give back to me.”

Thank you, Dee, for dedicating your time, compassion and hard work to the Rescue herd at MVHR. It is volunteers like you who make it possible to save the lives of as many equines as we do!