Elka is doing well. She had a high parasite load which we were aggressively treating and which is now, thankfully, resolved. She was absolutely thrilled when I let her out of quarantine a few days ago and she had a blast meeting some of our other ‘Velvet Nosers.’ She is truly, a very sweet girl.
Thank you, all, for your love and support for this precious girl.
Sincerely,
Theresa
If you would like to view a video of Rosie’s Story, please click on the image above.
I apologize for taking so long to post this update, but I wanted to wait until Rosie was back here at the rescue, plus, I have been quite sick with the flu. The post is a bit long, but it’s Rosie’s story.
The evening I met Rosie, she had been down on the ground for several hours. Jessica and I responded to the call and when we arrived, my heart skipped a beat – it was almost as if I was looking at Betsy Rose, a very special pony who came to us in 2013. Betsy’s story can be found on our BLOG by clicking here. Betsy Rose, like Rosie, was thin, weak, dehydrated and unable to get up.
We assessed the situation and then rolled Rosie over onto her other side and waited for Dr. Stephanie, the vet, to arrive. We knew Rosie’s odds were not great, but we also knew she deserved a chance. I sat and talked to her and promised her that we would do our best and try to make all of her tomorrows everything her past should have been, and that there were many wonderful people sending good thoughts and prayers to her. Once the vet arrived, she tried to run IV fluids, but since Rosie had a thick Cushing’s coat, the weather was getting bad and it was quite dark, trying to find a vein was most challenging. We, thereby, opted to roll Rosie onto a tarp, get her into the trailer, and take her to the rescue which was less than five minutes away. Time was of the essence – her heart and respiration rates were up but her temperature was going down. I stayed with Rosie in the trailer and once at the rescue, we immediately, went to work – her neck was shaved and after a round of IV fluids, we rolled her over into the sling and got her to stand. She was given a second round of IV fluids that also contained vitamins and minerals.
We massaged Rosie’s legs and hips and gave her time to adjust. Once she was steady, we removed the sling and she let us know that she was hungry which was a good sign. We offered her a mash and she literally dove into it – it made me very sad to see how very famished she was. She would have loved to have had more mash, but we had to take it slow – a re-feeding protocol must be followed. We were afraid to give her hay because she could have choked – her teeth were bad which would be addressed once she was stable. Rosie drank, passed manure and urine, and perked up. She didn’t show signs of pain and while her heart and respiration rates were still above normal, they were better. She actually looked like she had a smile on her face. That night, Frodo stayed across the aisle way from her and they struck up a conversation – she had a friend. I also put Freckles, Betsy Rose’s best friend, in the stall with Rosie and shared some of Betsy’s story with her. It had been a long day and we headed home at about midnight. We went down and checked on Rosie every few hours, in addition to monitoring her via cameras. Every time she heard one of us, she’d nicker which made my heart feel so good. The night was calm, thankfully.
The next day, when I took Rosie out for a walk, she was stiff, but she got better as we walked. Like Betsy Rose, the first time Rosie went out and stepped upon grass, her head immediately, went down in order to graze! Once back in the stall, I brushed her and was able to get dried and caked manure out of her tail and off her legs. I think it made her feel so much better. Kathy was volunteering that day and she also took Rosie for a walk. It was a very good day. overall.
That evening, it started raining, so we brought Frodo and Komanchee in and tucked them into their stalls across from Rosie. She was tired and let me know that she was ready to go into the sling for a nap. I had to wait for Bob to get home so he could help me. When we were ready to place her in the sling, it was like she’d been there, done that. Rosie parked herself where she needed to be and stood perfectly still so we could hook it up. The winches make a loud noise which can be worrisome for some horses, but not Rosie. We put a can in front of her with a blanket on top so she could rest her head and get much needed REM sleep, just as we used to do for Betsy, I sat by her head, rubbed her neck, and told her she was home now and was loved so very much.
Rosie slept and when her little ears started moving back and forth like Betsy’s used to do, it was a sign that she was in REM which is so important when the body needs to heal. When she awoke and looked at me, I can’t explain it, but for about thirty seconds, I felt like I was literally, looking into Betsy’s eyes. The peace, love, and gratitude I saw, along with an aura that was all about her, took my breath away as I sensed Betsy Rose’s loving and soothing presence. Time stood still for those thirty seconds while acceptance, peace, purpose and calm came over me – things I hadn’t felt since Beauty left us in November. I will always be grateful for those precious thirty seconds.
After we removed Rosie from her sling, she looked very much at peace. We gave her a warm mash, I kissed her little nose, and we said good-night to all. We went home at about midnight, exhausted, but feeling good about the day’s accomplishments. At 1:39 am Rosie was peacefully standing, looking towards Frodo, when suddenly, she went down, and moments thereafter, she was gone. There was no pain. There was no struggle. Her little heart just likely gave out. We were planning to have a necropsy performed, but since it could not be accomplished until the end of January, we opted to have Rosie cremated and be returned to us.
I’m grateful Rosie didn’t die on the ground, cold, and hungry. She had a stall with soft shavings, food in her tummy, heat lamps for warmth, fresh water, and a friend across the aisle. She had countless people praying and sending good thoughts to her and she got to walk and graze upon green grass. She even had Freckles camping out in her stall. I feel so blessed that we were able to give Rosie a chance, thanks to your support. and while we did our best, her little body had endured far too much, for far too long
Some have said that Rosie may have been waiting, just hanging on to go ‘home.’ Maybe her final rally was, in fact, her belief that someone would come to take her to a place where she would be assisted to go for a final walk in order to graze, a place where she would feel loving hands and caring hearts surrounding her, and hunger pains that would be no more.
I have witnessed countless horses endure unnecessary suffering while their owners were absent, or authorities turned a blind eye. And while we can’t take in every horse, we do try to help other horses in need when resources permit. Our aid may encompass providing essential resources such as hay, vet care, and other necessities, but sadly, in some cases, help comes too late. But even then, I remain by their side, offering solace and comfort until they depart upon their final journey to Rainbow Bridge. I often apologize to these horses, acknowledging the disappointment they must feel due to their humans’ negligence. I make it a point to reassure them of their worth and the love they deserve, with the promise that a better place awaits them.
It is a deeply moving experience to witness the final moments of these horses as their last bit of energy dissipates from their bodies. Some gracefully accept their fate, while others valiantly fight to cling onto life with all their remaining strength. Regardless, I am certain that they are grateful for the presence of a compassionate soul at that time. Many must have felt let down by their human counterparts, and it is a privilege to offer them solace and companionship. It is not an easy task, but I firmly believe that every horse deserves at least this level of compassion when it is their time. Unfortunately, due to the hands-on nature of our work and the amount of time it takes, we are not able to share with you all of our happenings here at the rescue, but please be assured, we stay very busy, helping all that we can while tending to our beloved little herd here.
I believe some horses that have come to us, like Savannah, Minnie, and Rosie, have held on until they arrived at a place where they felt at peace with humans who care. Their ability to hold on, and then be at peace for a short time, may very well be their final ‘rally.’ That peace may also be what enables them to let go at a time of their choosing, oftentimes, alone, in order to spare we humans the grief we feel. Based on my experiences, the short time that I spend with these horses during that final ‘rally’ connects us deeply. While it is difficult for us, it’s a choice that we make – to continue to ‘be there’ for these precious souls during their final moments. It is a gift that we can offer them only because of your support. You all make a difference and I thank you.
Rosie was cremated and her ashes have been returned and while most will be spread on the farm, some will remain with us. Rosie is now home, and forever in our hearts, right where she belongs.
Sincerely,
Theresa
In 2011, a herd of horses, including minis and several studs, were living in deplorable conditions in a junkyard. As they were not receiving proper care, the authorities became involved and the herd was relinquished to Beauty’s Haven. One member of this little herd was Nickers, a very sweet stud born in 2008, who was only three years old at the time. Nickers went directly to a foster home where he was gelded soon thereafter and since he was so very much loved, his foster parents decided to adopt him.
Another member of this little herd was a mini mare named Glory who was in foal upon her arrival at Beauty’s Haven, her baby having been sired by Nickers. Glory and. Nicker’s baby, Cloud Dancer. was born here at the rescue in April 2011. Once Cloud Dancer was weaned, he went to reside with Nickers and his adoptive family. After many years of happily residing with their beloved family, they were returned to Beauty’s Haven in 2022, through no fault of their own.
And now, this wonderful little father and son duo is embarking upon a wonderful new journey with Grief on the Go and Tomorrow ‘s Rainbow Coping Academy’s mobile programs as grief and trauma counselors, where they will be bringing joy and healing to children in underserved communities across Broward and Palm Beach counties. Though we miss them dearly, we are so very proud of our sweet boys.
After finally winning the war on Gabe‘s abscessed and ulcerated eye, which we have been treating since the end of August, our poor boy was sadly stricken with a bout of colic on Friday. Thankfully, we managed to get him through this episode; within a few hours he passed gas, had a bowel movement and was, once again, drinking. And then a few days ago, Willow, an eighteen year-old Thoroughbred mare we adopted out in 2016, came back to Beauty’s Haven through no fault of her own.
Willow and Gabe are both in need of sponsors to help with their daily ongoing care, so if anyone would like to sponsor either of these precious horses, just click on the ‘DONATE’ button below. Gabe and Willow, who have now become the very best of friends, would most assuredly, be eternally grateful.
We also have a substantial balance remaining on Aaleyah’s veterinary bill following her surgery and subsequent hospitalization a few months ago, so if anyone would like to assist us with this need, it would be truly appreciated. If you would like to help Aaleyah, you may do so, by once again, clicking on the ‘DONATE’ button below. Donations may also be called directly into PetersonSmith Equine Hospital at 352-861-1251 or 352-237-6151, account #95501.
Thank you for your love and support. We most certainly could not do what we do without our amazing village of supporters .
Sincerely,
Theresa
Aaleyah Belle is clearly demonstrating that she is tired of stall rest. Just another week to go. Oh joy! She will then spend two weeks in a small turn out area which I am sure, she will like much better! If you click on the image of Aaleyah, above, you can see our ‘wild child’ in action!
We are truly excited to announce that a dear friend and supporter has most generously offered a Match Game to assist with Aaleyah’s surgery, hospitalization and veterianary fees, whereby, all donations up to $1000 will be matched dollar for dollar!
This could not have come at a better time as we still have a very long way to go. If you wish to participate in the Match Game, you can do so by visiting our Facebook Business Page (CLICK HERE) or you could simply contribute directly to Beauty’s Haven by clicking on the ‘DONATE’ button below. Please note that your contribution is for ‘Aaleyah’s Match Game.’
Thank you, all, for your continued love and support.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Aaleyah Belle thankfully continues to do well since her return to the rescue following her surgery at PetersonSmith Equine Hospital. Although she would prefer not being in a stall, she can, at least, still gaze out over the farm from her window. Aaleyah can also see her best friend, Chloe, from afar and needless to say, she was completely over the moon when Chloe got to visit with her from the paddock outside the barn area over night. I know that both girls will be happiest when they are together once again.
We currently have a Facebook Fundraiser underway to help cover the cost of Aaleyah’s surgery, hospital stay and veterinary care. We are forever grateful to each and every one of you who has contributed thus far, but we still have a very long way to go.
Sadly, in the world of animal rescue, especially with equines, who, despite their size and grandeur, are really quite delicate beings, unexpected medical emergencies can arise in the blink of an eye, emergencies which must be acted upon quickly in order to save a precious life. And since we depend solely upon contributions and grants to ensure the safety and well-being of each and every member of our beloved little herd, we are now, desperately seeking your help. Aaleyah will be so very appreciative of any contribution designated to her surgery/hospitalization. Just click on the ‘DONATE’ button below to make a contribution directly to her Facebook Fundraiser.
Thank you, all, for your continued generosity, love and support. *Please click on the image above to view a video of Aaleyah, our beautiful girl who ‘never gives up.’
Sincerely,
Theresa
Aaleyah Belle is back at the rescue! Colic can happen at any time and I still cannot believe that we lost Oasis a couple of weeks ago to this insidious condition. And then it hit Aaleyah Belle out of the blue! Aaleyah so loves life and I am so very grateful that she got through this. She never gave up! Life can truly change in a blink of an eye. Thank you, all, so very much, for your good thoughts and prayers. We have been blessed many times with answered prayers. This is yet another blessing.
We have currently posted a fundraiser on Facebook to help cover the cost of Aaleyah’s surgery, hospital stay and veterinary care. If anyone would like to help with this need, you can visit our Facebook page (CLICK HERE), or if you prefer, you may contribute directly to Beauty’s Haven by clicking on the ‘DONATE’ button below. Please note that your contribution is for ‘Aaleyah Belle.’
Thank you, all, for your continued generosity, love and support. If you would like to see our girl up close and personal, just click on the image above.
Sincerely,
Theresa
“Life is about determination! Don’t give up just because of the obstacles. Regardless of what obstacles face you, just keep going! Go through, go around, go over or under – but never give up!”
Aaleyah Belle, thankfully, continues to improve daily. On Tuesday, Dr. Hughes reported that Aaleyah’s heart rate was still elevated, albeit it had come down a bit. She is eating hay and passing poop. She was so happy to see Jenny and Jen walk through the door when they visited with her on Tuesday!
On Wednesday, Aaleyah was beyond thrilled to no longer be muzzled and she happily, munched on her hay. She is still not out of the woods as yet, but we are cautiously optimistic. This mare never gives up!
And, poor Gabe! He is just so anxious for his corneal ulcer and abscess to heal. We are administering quite a bit of eye medications and thankfully, the lavage has truly made a world of difference.
Please continue to keep both Aaleyah and Gabe in your prayers and if anyone wishes to contribute to their medical fees, it would be so greatly appreciated. Once again, donations for Aaleyah may be called in directly to PetersonSmith Equine Hospital at 352-861-1251 or 352-237-6151 (account #95501). Our website also offers a variety of options in which to contribute. Just click on the ‘DONATE’ button below.
Thank you, all, for your continued generosity, love and support.
Sincerely,
Theresa
On Saturday, when I was at the hospital with Aaleyah Belle, Jo somehow managed to lodge a sliver in her neck which became quite swollen and sore, but we are treating her accordingly, and she is, thankfully, doing okay. And then there is Gabe, who somehow injured his eye which caused him much discomfort and despite our daily administration of eye medications, there was little sign of improvement.
Since I had to attend to Jo and Gabe, I decided to remain at the farm on Sunday and asked Jenny to visit with Aaleyah at the hospital. I also decided that it would be the perfect time to call the vet out to assess Gabe’s eye. Upon examination, the vet discerned that not only does Gabe have a corneal ulcer, he has an abscess as well! Gabe’s eye medications were adjusted accordingly and a subpalpebral lavage was put in place which will make it much easier for us to treat his eye.
Chloe is, thankfully, doing okay – she has settled in nicely in the main paddock with her ‘new friend,’ Peaches, eagerly awaiting the return of her best friend, Aaleyah. Mo is adjusting to the loss of his beloved Oasis, thanks to our resident ‘wise old soul,’ Waylon, and his happy go lucky sidekick, Walker. I also visited Aaleyah today. She is having a fairly good day but she is not at all happy with her muzzle or stall. She did slime Jenny today so I’m taking that as a good sign!
Our vet bills are growing exponentially, so if anyone would like to assist with Gabe or Aaleyah’s veterinary expenses, it would be so greatly appreciated.
Thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Maggie came to us last November as a county seizure. She had been living alone in a small sand paddock for many years. The case is still pending, but last week we were advised we had to release her to her previous owner. She was picked up on Saturday. It broke many hearts – especially Gabe’s. I can only hope and pray that there were lessons learned and that Maggie will be loved and properly cared for this time – and that she will have a friend. She truly appreciated having companionship.
Watching Gabe run around and hearing him call for her when she left and her call for him as the trailer drove away broke my heart. Animals certainly do feel happiness, love, pain, sorrow, and even a sense of loss.
Walking her to the transport trailer was a very hard thing to do and I feel like I betrayed her. I had promised her safety, food, and happiness. I’m sure she didn’t understand that we had no choice – we do have to follow the law. We all adore this mare and we cherish the bond that these two horses, each one having lived alone for many years before coming to us, had formed.
Together, Gabe and Maggie flourished. Maggie stays in my heart and in my prayers. The door is always open for her to come back.
Updated to address questions: We know where Maggie went. The State Attorney approved of the boarding facility where she was taken which is a couple of hours away. It’s off the beaten path so there is really no way to check on her by doing a drive-by. There was no restriction put on how long Maggie had to stay at the boarding facility.
Sincerely,
Theresa