Veterinarian: “He is Dual Peppy again”

It’s been more than a year since a former champion cutting horse became the poster child of an animal abuse case in Black Forest.

Dual Peppy, along with nine other horses and four llamas, were discovered living among rotting horse carcasses in a Black Forest barn.

After KRDO NewsChannel 13’s initial reports aired, horse enthusiasts took notice of Dual Peppy after seeing his markings and his brand. Dr. Randy Parker was the first veterinarian to examine Dual Peppy and the other animals discovered in the barn.

“You couldn’t tell he [Dual Peppy] was a stallion, just a sack of bones. His ribs were showing, his hips were sinking out,” said Parker.

The animals’ owner, Sherri Brunzell, was found guilty of eight counts of animal cruelty and she lost custody of eight horses and four llamas.

Dual Peppy was sent to Blue Rose Ranch in Springfield. The ranch’s owners were put in charge of finding him a forever home.

Blue Rose Ranch Owner Cheryl Webb said Dual Peppy has been placed in a new home, but the agreement with the new owner was to keep the location a secret to help Dual Peppy live in peace.

However, the new owners shared video with KRDO NewsChannel 13 to show people that Dual Peppy is doing well at his new home.

Parker examined the video and assessed Dual Peppy’s health.

“The people who have been carrying for him, they should be commended. They’ve done a wonderful job,” said Parker. “He is a tough guy again. He is Dual Peppy again. His coat is shiny, his ears are forward, he’s happy again.”

Parker said that Dual Peppy has made remarkable progress.

“He used to be a stallion who was proud of himself and who he was and he definitely feels that way again,” said Parker.

Parker said this animal abuse story never should have happened, but at least it has a happy ending.

KRDO NewsChannel 13 contacted Brunzell’s attorney to request an interview, but did not hear back.