Honey the horse died hungry, weak, and in pain—on a sweltering July day, lying in the dirt, too emaciated to stand. According to the Santa Clara County District Attorney, Honey’s death was preventable. But despite clear warnings from a veterinarian months earlier, the manager responsible failed to act.

Jennifer Bryant, 25, was overseeing Bear Creek Stables in Los Gatos, a site operated by Chaparral Ranch, which offers public horseback rides across the Bay Area. In March 2024, animal control officers responded to complaints and found Honey already in distress—lice-ridden, sickly, and in urgent need of care. A vet ordered a special diet and follow-up treatment.

None of it happened.

Instead, Honey was moved to a different location, not fed what she needed, and left to deteriorate. When authorities were called again in July, they found Honey severely malnourished, infested with worms, and so weak she couldn’t stand. She was euthanized that same day.

Chaparral Ranch continues to operate across multiple Bay Area locations—even after past concerns from whistleblowers and public agencies. And yet, it’s Honey’s story that finally pierced through the silence.

Santa Clara County prosecutors have now filed animal cruelty charges against Bryant. But justice can’t stop with one low-level employee. We are calling on county officials and local parks departments to fully review Chaparral Ranch’s operations—and suspend any public contracts, permits, or partnerships until full accountability is achieved.

Honey deserved better. And the public deserves to know that horses used for recreation aren’t being neglected behind the scenes.

Supporters say this is a turning point—not just to honor Honey’s memory, but to make sure no animal is left to suffer in silence again.

Sign this petition to demand a full public review of Chaparral Ranch, and to show that negligence won’t be ignored.