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Missing Solace, Another to Rainbow Bridge, Oscar, and More

February 23rd – 25th, 2014

February 23rd, 2014

I’m about to go read comments about Solace – I’ve been putting it off. My heart is still very heavy from losing him – it just isn’t the same. I find myself still looking out into the paddock to see how he’s feeling – but he’s not there.

I hoped to somewhat regroup yesterday but then a call came in – a mare had been down for 3 days – can we help? Of course, I couldn’t say no. I’m not going to get into details but we were, sadly, called too late to try to help this mare. When we got there, I took her vitals and they were not good. Her gum color was not good. She’d dug a 10″ ditch with her front legs. She didn’t respond to any sensation in her back end.

It took awhile to find a vet to respond but he determined that the mare had gone toxic and advised that the most humane thing to do was to help the mare cross. Losing Solace on Friday was still very fresh in my mind and in my heart, and, while I only knew this mare for a couple of hours yesterday, it didn’t matter – I loved her just the same and letting her go was hard. Losing any hurts – it NEVER gets easier. But, as with Solace, there is comfort in knowing that she runs with the Heavenly herd now – she knows no more pain.

Oscar no longer needs assistance to get up! He’s mobile and doing well.

Romeo is doing well also. He’s far from out of the woods but we’re staying positive and he’s brighter each day. He loves to talk!

Wanda and her son, Caleb, did a GREAT job clipping little Harvey today! Thank you both – very much!!!

Harvey looked like a little lamb! He’s going to feel much better!

Last photo for today to end my posts on a good note – Serenity is feeling better. It’s been tough getting through the sand and parasite issues but we’re working on it. She’s a sweet girl.

Februay 24th, 2014

Betsy Rose’s court case is over – the previous owner got probation, has to pay fees/fines, and can’t own large animals for a year. I wish I could change what happened to Betsy Rose before she found her way here, but I can’t. She’s a determined little mare with a huge love for life that has touched the hearts of many – it’s truly a blessing to be part of her life. There are many things Betsy Rose wants to help us with like raising awareness of what to do if you see or suspect abuse/neglect, where to reach out for help, and so much more. She wants to help educate humans about the responsibilities of owning and caring for a horse – it’s not inexpensive and proper care does take time.

February 25th, 2014

Lindsey and Ginny gave Bryce a good bath today – the weather was just beautiful! He’s putting on weight nicely, finally. Ginny’s husband, Mark, fixed fences. Bob made 2 trips to get hay and will make another trip tomorrow! Marie took some office work home with her to accomplish. I thank God for our volunteers and supporters daily – sometimes many times!

Bryce is doing better. He had a huge amount of sand in his gut. He had a high parasite load too.

Look how great Harvey looks! I kept telling people he wasn’t fat – he was just fluffy! LOL

Oscar and Vermont Teddy Bear

IT’S COMING!!!

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BH February 18, 2014 Update

It was great to have Jean spend the day here helping out and visiting with the horses! And Sherry surprised us and came this afternoon – we’ve missed her! Ginny and her husband, Mark, and Karol were here today but we missed Marie. A lot got done and we are so appreciative of all of our volunteers! This is Jean and Sherry getting Oscar up.

Romeo loves a warm mash and I feel bad when it’s all gone – he turns his tub over and looks for more. Refeeding a starved horse isn’t as easy as one may think. You can’t just start feeding them – it could kill them. And rehab requires more than just a good refeeding program. There is a lot involved and it can be exhausting. But watching the horse grow stronger and become more animated and happy is so rewarding! We are very blessed to have a wonderful group of professionals as part of our care team to consult with and we also have awesome volunteers (on and off site) that help us. And we have our supporters that make it possible for us to help the horses – we thank you all. It really does take a village.

Dr. Bess Darrow (Tune Ups Veterinary Equine Dentistry and Services) worked on Mahogany, Eliza, and Romeo today. Romeo was very cooperative and didn’t need any sedation for Dr. Bess to do what she needed to do but she will have to work on him more once he’s in better condition and stable. He is about 17 years old.

We had more blood work done on Mahogany today – something just isn’t right. I observe the horses as much as possible – herd dynamics has always fascinated me. Mahogany was the alpha mare of the herd and I’m sure the stress of what they have gone through has been especially hard on her (mentally).

Lucy looks like she’s ready to go to a show! She’s beautiful!

This is Derek – another one of our rescues with his adoptive mom, Meagan. Meagan adores him and he adores her!

Sincerely,

Theresa

Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Website: https://www.bhfer.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bhfer.

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Solace – Not Good News

02/20/14

I was praying I would have good news about Solace but I don’t.  He made a remarkable recovery from death’s door after arriving here in December 2012.  He grew strong, put on 250+ lbs, and he was happy and doing well but a few months ago that changed.  All sorts of tests were run, x-rays, ultrasounds, more tests were accomplished, we tried various treatments – we have a great professional care team.  But he has continued to get worse and, despite all of our efforts, over the past several weeks, he has grown tired and more uncomfortable.  Our care team believes that he likely has cancer.  We love him enough to let go to Rainbow Bridge.  This has not been a quick or easy decision – it’s been a very heartbreaking one.

Solace is grateful for his time with us, for the love he’s been showered with, and for the fact that he was able to grow strong and stand tall and proud gain.  I know that he will be grateful for the release we are giving him – he will know no more pain.  Death is a part of life.  We are born in this world with no option but to face death at some point.  And I believe that death isn’t the end – it’s another birth in a much better place where hunger, pain, and sorrow do not exist.

We ask that everyone think of Solace tomorrow at 1 pm when our elderly but proud stallion will go to Rainbow Bridge where he will become a young steed again.  He won’t be alone – I’ll be right there with him until well after he leaves this earth.

Tomorrow will be very difficult so please understand if I’m absent for a couple of days.  Thank you.

Sincerely, Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

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Bryce, Serenity, Romeo, Solace, Oscar

February 15th

Bryce and Serenity

Seeing contentment in their eyes is one of the greatest gifts ever.

Solace had a so-so day today.  The weather was a little cool, but nice.

February 16th

Although he is in better spirits, please keep the new gelding, Romeo, in your prayers – his blood work results came back.  His liver and kidneys are struggling.

Oscar can get his front end up on his own now.  We still have to help him get his back end up.

Look what our “discarded” pony named Starlight and her young lady, Jordan, accomplished in 2013!  A message from Jordan…

Can I brag about how good my pony is?
All these ribbons in her very first show year.
My end of 2013 division placings!
RESERVE CHAMP: In – Hand Trail Class.
Fourth: Beginner Western Rider
Eighth: Western Pleasure…
Eighth: Model Western
Ninth: Stock Seat
I’m oh so proud of my pony! ♡
Jordan

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How’s It Going at the Farm?

February 17th, 2014

Romeo had a fairly good day today, although this morning, he had a little trouble getting up. His body is depleted of everything – his liver and kidneys are struggling. But this is not unusual in cases such as this. Our rehab program moves slowly but steady. One of the most important first steps in recovery, IMO, is knowing and feeling in the heart that you’re loved – the worried and far off look in Romeo’s face is already softening. Dr. Bess Darrow (Tune Ups Veterinary Equine Dentistry and Services) will be here tomorrow – I’m not sure how much she’ll be able to do with him. He isn’t well enough for sedation. Romeo is such a love – please keep him in your prayers.

This is a little of Romeo’s poop in a glove. We do this (twice) to see how much sand settles – it’s an indicator of how much is in the GI tract. We did this on the day he arrived. There’s always going to be some sand found – horses pick it up here (FL) when they graze or even eat hay off the ground (hay racks are a good investment). But this is way too much. Sand can cause havoc on the GI system. Giving psyllium for one week each month will help sand to pass through and out the gut. Poor Romeo.

Oscar wasn’t as active today as he has been. We think he has an abscess in his front right.

Bronson still loves to take long naps. Actually, I would have loved to have taken a nap with him.

Serenity, Eliza, and Mahogany eating breakfast. Bryce was behind me. They are slowly improving.

Matilda loves it when we have visitors! And everyone LOVES Matilda! Matilda needs sponsors! Her rehab is complete – she’s gained 200+ lbs and is doing great. She’s a big girl looking for a forever home but until that home comes along she would appreciate support in her routine expenses. If anyone would like to help, donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small!

This is Mary on the right getting a hooficure today. Her BFF, Kamanchee, is on the left.

Oscar and Betsy Rose

Another beautiful Arabian mare looking for a forever home – Victoria! She got a much needed bath today!

Mary was on the list for a bath today but there wasn’t enough time. I crawled up on her yesterday to see if she’d mind – she hasn’t been ridden in many, many years. She did great – she got a little excited being away from her best friend, Kamanchee. But we headed that way and she was fine. She still needs a bath. Mary is a 27 year young Arabian mare that is looking for a home. Kamanchee is also looking for a home – he is a little paint pony. It would be really awesome if they found a forever home together.

Lucy was a good girl today – she got clipped and is ready for the warmer weather.

Magnum started our day out with an upset stomach but was feeling better after spending a little while at the barn.

Betsy Rose was one of many that got a hooficure today. Her strength and balance are so much better – we are SO proud of this little miracle girl!

Jenny came up this weekend and visited with Penny and Penelope – they are doing great!

IT’S COMING!!!! Don’t miss it!

Calling it a day very soon – still need to get Oscar up once more and planning another big day tomorrow. Dr. Bess will be here and so will Dr. Julia. We have a great care team! I know I owe responses to PM’s and emails – I have not had time in the office. Hopefully, Wednesday if not tomorrow evening, I will get to them. I’m sorry – just spread thin. Hopefully Romeo will be feeling better tomorrow – Oscar too.

Sincerely,

Theresa

Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Website: https://www.bhfer.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bhfer.

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Betsy Rose’s Valentine Surprise!

Betsy Rose had a pretty big package delivered and it’s almost as big as she is!

”Betsy Rose come and look at a package that came for you!"

"Wait – Mommy Theresa, look! It says there’s an air hole – does that mean there’s something alive in there?? Hurry – let’s open it up!"

"Hello – is there anyone in there? No worries – Mommy Theresa is going to get you out of there, ok?"

"Look – it’s a fuzzy something with ears!"

"HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY BETSY ROSE! I’m your very own "Vermont Teddy Bear" and I’ve come to live with you! Uncle Greg sent me to you as a present! I’m so glad to get out of that box and to be able to stretch! Can you take me for a ride – I’ve always wanted to ride a pony!"

"Mommy Theresa – can he stay? Please? Freckles and the gang are going to love him!"
So Vermont Teddy Bear has joined our family – thank you Uncle Greg (our Webmaster)!

"Dr. Julia – look at my new friend! He wants to go for a ride – can you please help him up?"

"Oh whoopeee! This is kind of fun Betsy Rose! Now let’s goooo!"
"Ok but have you ever been on a horse before?"
"No, but it seems easy enough – let’s goooo!"

"OOOHHHHH NOOOO! I’m so glad you bounce Vermont Teddy Bear! Are you ok? I guess it’s not as easy as it seems. Maybe you should hold on tight to my mane until you get used to keeping your balance."

"Ok, this time I know what to expect. I’ll do better – I promise! No worries – let’s goooo!"

"Here we go – one little step at a time. How you doing up there? You’re pretty light. Someone said that I was too old for anything and needed to be put down before I came to Beauty’s Haven. My needs were neglected and I got to be so weak, I couldn’t get up anymore. I prayed someone would help me and I never gave up. Then, I came here and everyone helped me get better – there were humans that believed in me! That’s one thing we do here, Vermont Teddy Bear – we BELIEVE!"

"Ok Betsy Rose – I BELIEVE I can do this – let’s goooo!"

And off into the sunset they went. A happy little pony and her new friend. But then, well, Betsy Rose remembered something.

"Wait – we can’t leave Oscar! He’s very weak and can’t get up on his own just like I couldn’t for the first few weeks I was here. Only, I couldn’t even stand on my own. I had to live in a sling for many weeks. Oscar lived in the sling for a few days when he first got here but now he can walk on his own – he just can’t get up yet if he’s laying down. I had Freckles to keep me company – she’s in our room in the barn napping now. We have to be careful with her because the dogs like to carry her away. But now, I like to keep Oscar company. I don’t want to leave him for long. Maybe you could be his friend too and sit with him for a bit? I’ll give you another ride tomorrow. Ok?"

Betsy Rose is such a loving and kind soul. It made her day to see Oscar and Vermont Teddy Bear together. Oscar just loves him – he makes a soft pillow. And after a good nap, Oscar did get up with us helping him in his back end only. He managed to use his legs to get his front end up. Slowly, he is getting stronger. His heart rate is still up but that’s expected. His body is so weak – his little heart is working harder. Just like Betsy Rose’s did for quite awhile. All of the many days/nights of helping Betsy Rose around the clock – all those sleepless nights – it all paid off! We’ve given Betsy Rose a new chapter in her life. And she’s given us much more than I can put into words. Thank you all for believing along with us….

We all want to wish everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day! We have been very blessed in many ways and are thankful for all of you and your support. And thank you Greg – I heard Betsy Rose say, "He’s a keeper!" so I think she really loves her Vermont Teddy Bear!

Sincerely,

Theresa

Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Website: https://www.bhfer.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bhfer.

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Our Valentine Save – He Really Needed Us

February 14th, 2014

I just want to let everyone know that we picked up up the gelding this afternoon and Dr. Julia Simonson vetted him.

Dr. Julia said he’s deteriorated in just the last couple of days and wouldn’t have lasted another day. He has diarrhea and was very dehydrated – his poop is full of sand.

He was oiled and he got some electrolytes and other goodies via GI tube. He has some bite marks on his backend. We’ll get him cleaned up tomorrow. He is skin on bones. Without that thick hair you could better see how thin he is. I’m glad he has this coat – he would have been miserable over the cold season.

Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Website: https://www.bhfer.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bhfer.

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Horse in Dire Need, Dr. Porter’s Visit, & More

February 13th, 2014

This is the gelding that I posted about a few days ago. We would like to pick him up tomorrow. He is very thin, (1.5 on the BCS), he has diarrhea and numerous bite marks that are trying to heal on his back side and a mane is full of burrs. We aren’t worried about the burrs and such but we are worried about the diarrhea and the amount of sand he’s likely ingested. We are able to help this boy only because Mollie left this week to go to “school” for a few weeks. I pray no more calls come until we can get some placed – we simply can’t squeeze anymore in after this guy. If you can help, please let us know ASAP – we need peldges/donations to total $300 per month for the next 6 months unless his rehab is completed and he finds a home sooner. We have curently received pledges totaling $80 per month for six months and someone has already pledged to cover his initial vetting. If you would like to donate to help him, please mark ‘For the MC1 horse.’ God bless and thank you.

The mare with him isn’t as in as bad shape as the gelding. She will be picked up by AC tomorrow. If anyone can offer her a good home I can give you contact info tomorrow. She’s thought to be about 12 yrs old – a very pretty girl.

She is dominant and constantly picks on him.

Dr. Porter came out to check on Solace and Cookie.  Solace hasn’t been feeling well.  We will be trying him on a different medication. Please pray for him – he’s come so far.

Cookie was a very good girl for her cisplatin bead treatment today under her eye. We need to pray really hard, and keep the faith, that this works.

Cookie may need one more treatment after this one. We’ll know in a few weeks. Dr. Porter and his assistant, as always, do a great job

We also had Cookie’s front right foot x-rayed and found there is mineralization of the suspensory ligament of the navicular bone and there is a sub-chondral bone cyst. She runs around like she’s a race horse at times but now we know why she’s on and off lame.

Dr. Porter’s mobile clinic is pretty amazing!

Gentleman getting his hooficure.

Oscars first hooficure.

Thank you all for your continued love and support.

Sincerely,

Theresa

Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Website: https://www.bhfer.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bhfer.

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Our Noble Arabian Stud – Magic

February 14th, 2014

I needed some “me” time on Wednesday morning so I snuck away after feeding and chores.  I retreated to Magic’s paddock.  He had horrible tangles in his mane which can come about overnight and I needed a happy project and I knew I’d be there for hours. LOL

Voila! Not just detangled but braided too!

Magic came to us in 2007.  He had been used in the Mexican “sport” of horse tripping.  He was one of the lucky ones that survived (if you don’t know what horse tripping is just Google it – but be warned – it may be graphic).  The “sport” is totally barbaric.  The majority of horses that survive go to slaughter due to physical injuries or because they are too mentally fried to be handled or trained.  For them to learn to trust humans after living through what they do, well, it could take years.  In some cases, a horse may never come around.  It’s very sad.

After being used and abused in the “sport” Magic ended up in a home where he was repeatedly beaten with a 2 x 4 because he refused to be saddled.  But thanks to the intervention by a brave young lady who feared for his life, we were able to pay $200 for him. The moment I met him, I promised him we would try to right the wrongs that had been done to him.  He understood – I just know he did.

When Magic came to Beauty’s Haven he was petrified of people and ropes which is understandable.  He has scars from rope burns that help tell his story.  He communicates very strongly – he has a huge heart and his dignity has been restored.  Even though he is a stud, he doesn’t act studdish and he would never intentionally hurt anyone.

We sometimes permit some humans to go into Magic’s paddock if they want to meet him.  If he approaches them for a treat or scratches that’s great.  If he is uncomfortable, he will simply walk away.  Nobody is allowed to go after him – he lives life on his terms and picks and chooses which humans he’s comfortable with – he’s earned that.  I did teach him how to give kisses – he gives those to whoever he chooses.  He has come a long way and I’m very proud of him.  Magic won’t accept being handled by other humans including vets, farriers, etc. but that’s ok.  I simply refuse to let anyone stress him or push him to the point of being afraid.  He trusts me to halter him and do what I need to do whether its treating a sore, detangling his mane, giving him medications, etc.  He’s healthy and happy and will live out his sunset years here as a Sanctuary horse.  I pray that someday the cruel “sport” of horse tripping will be made illegal around the world.

Magic still doesn’t care for ropes but that’s understandable.  He’s learned, from day one, that he has nothing to fear here.  He is forever home.

Look at the size of Magic’s face/neck how and imagine the strength this horse has – it wouldn’t take much for him to seriously injure someone.  But I trust him, completely.  Look at his eyes – they are sincere, honest, and kind.

Magic deserves being happy and loved and cared for, everyday, for the rest of his life.  I’ve been very blessed to be part of his life and we have a very special bond.

Look at little Ashlyn and Magic – he’s offering her kisses.  This horse has come a long, long way.

I just love this noble Arabian!

Sincerely,
Theresa

Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Website: https://www.bhfer.org
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bhfer

#magic #stud #horsetripping #bhfer #arabian

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Oscar, Cookie, and Others and Adoption Follow Ups

February 10th – 12th 

Monday, February 10th
We are so proud of our horses!  This mare has come so far in the care of her adoptive family – she recently won an event at the local speed show and it was the first time she had even been ridden outside of her paddock!  When she was adopted, she didn’t even want to be touched.  Congratulations Raven (Mia) and Brigitte!  Brigitte you and your family have worked wonders with her – thank you!

Cookie needs help! I call her my little “cow” in a loving way – the markings on her face are just unique. But she has been battling cancer for months now.  We are trying to save her eye.  Dr. Porter will be here on Thursday but we need to raise funds for her treatment.

Solace today. He was feeling ok. Thankfully.

Starlight – another of our rescued horses! Starlight and Jordan take great care of each other at Sprouses Corner Ranch! We are so proud of them and their accomplishments!

Oscar actually got up ON HIS OWN ACCORD this morning!  I knew last night when we went to roll him over, that it would be soon – he started kicking out with his back legs!  He’s only did it one time, but we’re hopeful he’ll continue to improve.  We do have a little setback as he may have some sort of infection going on.  Dr. Julia examined him this evening and we’re waiting for blood work to come back.

You can see Oscar didn’t feel well yesterday.  He hasn’t yet laid down again.  But hopefully, he’ll be able to continue to get up on his own.  He visited with Bill and Blodwyn today.

Wednesday, February 11th
Mahogany and Eliza are feeling a little better each day.  They will be getting hooficures tomorrow.

Wednesday, February 12th Oscar is all tucked in for the night. He hasn’t been able to get up on his own again. His blood work results from yesterday’s test came back and he has been started on antibiotics. He does have a good appetite and is drinking. But he has a long way to go. Please keep him in your prayers.  This is Bonnie giving some meds tonight before we got him back up.

We are an all volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit equine rescue organization that operates totally off of donations from the public – we are not funded by County, State, or Federal funds. Please consider making a one time or automatic monthly donation to help us to help the horses. Funds are needed for vetting, farrier needs, hay, grain, dental needs, equipment maintenance, and there is so much more. There are various ways to donate – visit our “Donate” page on our website. Our mailing address is PO Box 53, Morriston, FL 32668. Our PayPal address is theresa. All donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small. Please share us with friends, family, and co-workers – it takes a village! Thank you!

Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

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