I spent a good part of yesterday reading, through teary eyes, the very thoughtful and much appreciated emails and posts about Ambrosia – and the artwork is lovely.
First, let me say she is, and always will be, quite the mare – she had a heart of gold. Even though humans let her down tremendously by ignoring even her basic needs and by turning her loose to wander a rural community as a homeless horse – she didn’t hold it against us. This was Barbara comforting Ambrosia the night we met her.
The next day when we picked her up and took her to the rescue she walked off the trailer, looked around, and held her head up high – for the first time we saw light and life in her eyes. She was immediately started on antibiotics. She settled into her stall and went to eating her hay and Fibre-Beet mash – she loved food! She got groomed at least a ½ a dozen times a day and was pampered to the max. The day we loaded her up to go the hospital she loaded without hesitation. Once there, it took her all of about a minute to settle in before she started eating her hay.
After her initial assessment at the hospital, we discussed her diagnosis – pleuropneumonia (infection of the lungs and pleural space). Her care team determined that to get a good indication of whether or not there was a chance for her to recover they would need to drain her chest and see how quickly it would refill. This procedure (drained about 7 gallons of fluid) gave her quite a bit of relief. Her breathing was better – she stayed upbeat. She trusted humans to do to her what was needed – I truly believe she knew we were trying to help her. She cooperated – always. Her temperature was normal and her heart rate went significantly down – she continued to have a good appetite. She was only 13 years old.
Through every step of the way we evaluated her quality of life – it was constant throughout our decision making process. It was identified early on what aftercare would be needed and we were committed. While we knew from the start she likely would never be horse to be ridden we did think she would be happy being a pasture pal. And we agreed, from the beginning, that should her comfort level not be able to be controlled, or should she develop another issue such as laminitis, and her quality of life was poor with no relief in sight, we would help her to cross. We would not let her suffer. One of the key tools in determining her quality of life was by observing her will to live which was enormous. She had a great appetite and didn’t appear depressed. She would hold her head up high and was interested in what was going on around her – she would even whinny to Billy the goat or a passersby.
I spoke with the doctor on Thursday night – he recommended giving her some time to recover from the first surgery before going through the second. Friday morning the doctor called and said overnight Ambrosia’s temperature had risen as did her heart rate but she was quite the Champion – she was still eating and drinking fine. She did have increased swelling in her legs. The doctor decided to ultrasound her heart and said he had some concerns and said that he wanted the cardio team to conduct an ultrasound. While we waited for them we took Ambrosia out to graze for a bit, which she really enjoyed.
We went back to her stall and she became interested in a very handsome horse that was being evaluated.
Once he was left she seemed tired – her breathing had been getting more labored and she began to sweat. I played songs for her on my cell phone – she seemed to really like “Lost in Love” by Air Supply. I guess I did too – we must have listened to it about 4 times. I told her about the many people that loved her and were helping her. I apologized for what humans had, or hadn’t done, for her. And I prayed.
The cardio team arrived and did another ultrasound. The cardiologist determined that Ambrosia had developed congestive heart failure. Her heart had been working overtime to compensate for the decrease of lung function. The right side of her heart was weak. We once again reviewed her quality of life and determined that, while we could prolong her life it was not in her best interest, the time had come to let her go. This is never an easy decision or one taken lightly – but we loved her enough to do what was in her best interest.
Ambrosia had several days of a full tummy and clean fresh water, she had been kept comfortable, she was doted on constantly, light in her eyes had returned, and she was genuinely interested in humans and what was going on around her. She had regained her dignity and was loved by so many and that’s important – she crossed Rainbow Bridge knowing she mattered.
I want to believe that at some point in her life she was loved and properly cared for. We will never know but we were able to prevent her from dying alone, hungry, and in pain. We knew going into this that she could take a turn for the worse at any time and we may have to let her go. God had other plans for her and we accept that. I held on to her and told her she was so very loved and I hummed “Lost in Love” as she crossed the Bridge. I could picture her holding her head up high towards the sky and running, reaching for the stars, as her body grew whole and strong again – what a glorious vision it was! I sat by her and held her and let the tears flow.
Before returning to the rescue I sat for a long time in the car in the parking lot at the hospital. I folded my arms across each other and rested my head on them against the steering wheel – as I did I could smell her. I had washed my hands but not my arms and her scent was still on them – a sense acceptance came over me. Acceptance is needed in order to move on. And I know that Ambrosia wants us to continue to help others that end up homeless, hungry, cold, alone, or in a bad situation – and with your continued help we can.
I’m sorry that Ambrosia was dumped in a rural community and had no human to care for, or about, her. I am sorry that we could not fix her health issues. And I am sorry that we could not keep her comfortably with us for a long, long time. But I’m not sorry, not in the least, that we tried. God bless each and every one of you for caring and helping in some way. Ambrosia had a huge love for life. She would have kept going until her heart burst – she was that kind of horse. She was quite the mare and had the heart of a Champion!
I have learned to fight the good fight to the end
And if I had to I would do it all again
And when the sun goes down
I won’t fear the night
I will keep my head towards the sky
Knowing that the Lord is on my side
And when the darkness falls
I won’t fear the night
I will keep my head toward the sky
Knowing that the Lord is on my side
(From the song Heart of a Champion)
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
Ambrosia remembered…
http://iacmusic.com/stationGen.aspx?stationID=7428
Artist: Greg Jones
Halflinger Pony – Urgent
We received an urgent plea this morning to pick up a 20+ Halflinger pony. If we don’t pick him up he could end up back in a dangerous situation. He had been living in an environment where drugs are part of the equation. The pony was being very neglected. A relative of the owner had been watching the pony’s health decline and was very concerned about him. During an appropriate time, the relative ask the owner if he would give her the pony and he did. The relative has been able to put some weight on the pony but we are told he is in dire need of farrier care and his teeth need to be done. Things happening have made the relative afraid that the owner will take the pony back which could put the pony back into harm’s way. This is a delicate family situation and I can tell you the person that currently has the pony is very concerned about the pony’s future and wants him in a safe place ASAP.
We need sponsors in order to make this happen. We are estimating the combined cost of helping this pony to be about $430 for transport, initial vetting, farrier, and teeth as he not received any of these things in a long time. We need sponsors to help with his monthly care – we are estimating $250 per month after the initial month. If anyone would like to help us to help this pony, please visit our donation page at the link below – mark your donation for “Meth Pony”. https://www.bhfer.org/donate.html
We are working on a current fundraiser to help as well.
If anyone would like to call in a donation directly to Peterson & Smith the number is 352-237-6151. No amount is too small and all donations are tax deductible. God bless and thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
Ambrosia
It appears we have about $200 over the amount needed (includes donations, Horse & Man Bucket Fund, raffle funds) to cover Ambrosia’s bills. I know everyone that donated to help her truly hoped and prayed she would make it. I am sure there are a lot of disappointed people – including me. If anyone would like a refund on funds donated to help Ambrosia please email me by the last day of the month. Whatever funds then remain at the end of the month will be used towards other vet bills.
Even though we lost her I’m not sorry that we tried to help her. Her love for life was huge. While with us she seemed happy and content – perhaps she basked in things she’d never had before – good food, clean water, and lots of love. We’ll never know about her past except that she had been found wandering the streets of a rural county – very neglected. I do know that the light we saw in her eyes was real and I find comfort in knowing she will never be neglected again –she runs with the heavenly herd.
And this is how I choose to remember her – a beautiful, kind, appreciative, and loving mare with a huge love for life.
Thank you all for caring about her. She is, and always will be, quite the mare.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
BHFER Update 09/16/12 evening
I want to at least share some photos taken over the past several days. I wanted to give more info on what’s been going on here but I need to get to bed soon – tomorrow is another busy day.
Warrior and Ouiji have gone to their new home – they are next door neighbors to Kami and Haley!
Alyse and her new human. A match we’ve waited on for a long time and Alyse won’t be far from the rescue! We had an application pending and the family visited today and it was like they’d known each other for quite awhile. Everyone was smiles!
Darling little Penny.
Melissa on HighTower.
Visitors came bearing carrots – the horses adored them (the humans and the carrots!)
Met a very nice mare yesterday – she’s looking for just the right home.
Great food and friends over the weekend!
Two very nice horses looking for a home. One is an Appendix and the other a TB.
And two adorable mini’s looking for homes.
Morgan LaFaye is quite the sweet mare. She’s ready for a home.
Everyone loves little Penny!
Dora is absolutely beautiful and will be ready for weaning soon.
If anyone is interested in any of the horses looking for homes please contact Melissa at bhfer.melissa@hotmail.com
Thank you all for your continued support – have a blessed week everyone!
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
09/16/12 Afternoon update
Ending up a nice weekend here with a cool and quiet afternoon. My cell phone is broken so no texting or calls for a couple of days which was kind of nice. Even though it was busy all weekend it was pretty quiet – we even got to ride for a bit! J I really needed this. Losing Ambrosia took a lot out of me and accepting such a loss can be hard and sometimes moving on can be really difficult. She is missed.
Haven’t been at the computer but hope to put out an update tonight. Busy day tomorrow. I did get to visit with Domino yesterday – she’s almost as big as Tony.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
On-line Auction
On behalf of Beauty’s Haven Equine Rescue, I’d like to thank the wonderful people who donated items for the auction (April Hughes, Marie Riordan, and Dianna Haynes)!
I’d also like to say a BIG thank you to those who bid on the items and congratulations to those who won! We raised a total of $595 towards Ambrosia’s medical bills!
Melissa Ingram
Adoptions/Events/Web Marketing
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
Thoughts of Ambrosia
I spent a good part of yesterday reading, through teary eyes, the very thoughtful and much appreciated emails and posts about Ambrosia – and the artwork is lovely.
First, let me say she is, and always will be, quite the mare – she had a heart of gold. Even though humans let her down tremendously by ignoring even her basic needs and by turning her loose to wander a rural community as a homeless horse – she didn’t hold it against us. This was Barbara comforting Ambrosia the night we met her.
The next day when we picked her up and took her to the rescue she walked off the trailer, looked around, and held her head up high – for the first time we saw light and life in her eyes. She was immediately started on antibiotics. She settled into her stall and went to eating her hay and Fibre-Beet mash – she loved food! She got groomed at least a ½ a dozen times a day and was pampered to the max. The day we loaded her up to go the hospital she loaded without hesitation. Once there, it took her all of about a minute to settle in before she started eating her hay.
After her initial assessment at the hospital, we discussed her diagnosis – pleuropneumonia (infection of the lungs and pleural space). Her care team determined that to get a good indication of whether or not there was a chance for her to recover they would need to drain her chest and see how quickly it would refill. This procedure (drained about 7 gallons of fluid) gave her quite a bit of relief. Her breathing was better – she stayed upbeat. She trusted humans to do to her what was needed – I truly believe she knew we were trying to help her. She cooperated – always. Her temperature was normal and her heart rate went significantly down – she continued to have a good appetite. She was only 13 years old.
Through every step of the way we evaluated her quality of life – it was constant throughout our decision making process. It was identified early on what aftercare would be needed and we were committed. While we knew from the start she likely would never be horse to be ridden we did think she would be happy being a pasture pal. And we agreed, from the beginning, that should her comfort level not be able to be controlled, or should she develop another issue such as laminitis, and her quality of life was poor with no relief in sight, we would help her to cross. We would not let her suffer. One of the key tools in determining her quality of life was by observing her will to live which was enormous. She had a great appetite and didn’t appear depressed. She would hold her head up high and was interested in what was going on around her – she would even whinny to Billy the goat or a passersby.
I spoke with the doctor on Thursday night – he recommended giving her some time to recover from the first surgery before going through the second. Friday morning the doctor called and said overnight Ambrosia’s temperature had risen as did her heart rate but she was quite the Champion – she was still eating and drinking fine. She did have increased swelling in her legs. The doctor decided to ultrasound her heart and said he had some concerns and said that he wanted the cardio team to conduct an ultrasound. While we waited for them we took Ambrosia out to graze for a bit, which she really enjoyed.
We went back to her stall and she became interested in a very handsome horse that was being evaluated.
Once he was left she seemed tired – her breathing had been getting more labored and she began to sweat. I played songs for her on my cell phone – she seemed to really like “Lost in Love” by Air Supply. I guess I did too – we must have listened to it about 4 times. I told her about the many people that loved her and were helping her. I apologized for what humans had, or hadn’t done, for her. And I prayed.
The cardio team arrived and did another ultrasound. The cardiologist determined that Ambrosia had developed congestive heart failure. Her heart had been working overtime to compensate for the decrease of lung function. The right side of her heart was weak. We once again reviewed her quality of life and determined that, while we could prolong her life it was not in her best interest, the time had come to let her go. This is never an easy decision or one taken lightly – but we loved her enough to do what was in her best interest.
Ambrosia had several days of a full tummy and clean fresh water, she had been kept comfortable, she was doted on constantly, light in her eyes had returned, and she was genuinely interested in humans and what was going on around her. She had regained her dignity and was loved by so many and that’s important – she crossed Rainbow Bridge knowing she mattered.
I want to believe that at some point in her life she was loved and properly cared for. We will never know but we were able to prevent her from dying alone, hungry, and in pain. We knew going into this that she could take a turn for the worse at any time and we may have to let her go. God had other plans for her and we accept that. I held on to her and told her she was so very loved and I hummed “Lost in Love” as she crossed the Bridge. I could picture her holding her head up high towards the sky and running, reaching for the stars, as her body grew whole and strong again – what a glorious vision it was! I sat by her and held her and let the tears flow.
Before returning to the rescue I sat for a long time in the car in the parking lot at the hospital. I folded my arms across each other and rested my head on them against the steering wheel – as I did I could smell her. I had washed my hands but not my arms and her scent was still on them – a sense acceptance came over me. Acceptance is needed in order to move on. And I know that Ambrosia wants us to continue to help others that end up homeless, hungry, cold, alone, or in a bad situation – and with your continued help we can.
I’m sorry that Ambrosia was dumped in a rural community and had no human to care for, or about, her. I am sorry that we could not fix her health issues. And I am sorry that we could not keep her comfortably with us for a long, long time. But I’m not sorry, not in the least, that we tried. God bless each and every one of you for caring and helping in some way. Ambrosia had a huge love for life. She would have kept going until her heart burst – she was that kind of horse. She was quite the mare and had the heart of a Champion!
I have learned to fight the good fight to the end
And if I had to I would do it all again
And when the sun goes down
I won’t fear the night
I will keep my head towards the sky
Knowing that the Lord is on my side
And when the darkness falls
I won’t fear the night
I will keep my head toward the sky
Knowing that the Lord is on my side
(From the song Heart of a Champion)
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
Ambrosia remembered…
http://iacmusic.com/stationGen.aspx?stationID=7428
Artist: Greg Jones
Ambrosia Has Her Wings
AMBROSIA HAS HER WINGS
It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that our beloved Ambrosia has crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
An ultrasound taken this morning revealed that Ambrosia’s heart was gravely compromised and it was decided
by Theresa, together with her team of veterinarians, that it would be in our brave girl’s best interest to let her go.
Ambrosia was granted the very best of care to ensure her survival,
thanks to the love and support of each and every one of you.
Unfortunately, God had other plans….
Theresa is devastated and needs some time.
Ambrosia departed this earth with her head held high, knowing that she was loved as never before.
We love you, Ambrosia.
You will forever remain in each of our hearts.
jeanne
Ambrosia and what we do…
Some great news regarding Ambrosia – the air flow in her left lung is up to about 60%! This is up about 10% from the day before – isn’t that awesome? She is a very good example of what a positive and bright attitude can do (with a little help from us humans)! The Dr. says she’s amazing and we agree!
They want to do surgery on the other side tomorrow provided all goes well today. Without the surgery she won’t survive – we must move forward. And so we continue to ask for help to save Ambrosia’s life. I was made aware of a negative remark made by someone that we “beg for money” and “put out sob stories” to get donations. Well, you know what? We do beg for money! We are a non-profit organization that operates totally from donations made by others. Without asking for money, and sharing what happens with the money, we would cease to exist and I’ve had many tell me that would be very sad not just for the horses we help but for the humans that care about the horses, for our volunteers both here and afar, and supporters that believe in our mission. As for the stories we put out – we do share what we are doing with the money! People deserve to know where their money goes! And if a story happens to be a sad one, it is what it is. In some cases a sad story turns into a happy one – like Baby Girl’s. We’ve had many success stories and we are very proud of our accomplishments. And we don’t just ask for money – we work hard on applying for grants, holding fundraisers, etc.
We do take in cases that can be quite the challenge – we don’t go looking for them but they find us and I believe there is a reason. It’s our opinion here at BH that they ALL deserve a chance. I’m very proud and passionate about what we do and I’m also proud of our supporters that enable us to keep going – their passion and generosity keeps us alive. And for the horses that are available for adoption – we do not push our horses out the door. We wait until the right home comes along – our goal is the right forever home. Our come back rate is very low for that reason. However, last year we adopted out 36 horses. This year we’ll double that!
Regarding Ambrosia’s condition and her required surgeries, treatments, and follow-up needs – all of this is a learning experience for us here and I’ve received a few mails thanking us for sharing it. Yes, her needs are costly but we can’t, and won’t, ever put a value on life. If the horse is up for the fight for its life we do what we can. In some cases, we have to love the horse enough to help it cross. But the bottom line is that we do what is in the best interest of the horse.
We can’t do this alone – we need your help to save Ambrosia’s life as well as to continue to provide for horses in our care. So please share us, and our mission, with friends. Share us on Facebook. Share a link to our Daily Blog – http://bhfer.wordpress.com/. We need help finding good homes for the ones that are ready. There are many ways to help – carwashes, bake sales, matching corporate donations, raffles, yard sales, etc. No matter in what capacity you help us – we thank you!
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
Ambrosia 9/5 pm update – graphic pics at bottom of update
I spent the most part of today at UF with Ambrosia. She developed a thrombosis in her neck so the catheter had to be removed. The other side of her neck already had a thrombosis in it so that side can’t be used either. They have switched her over to oral antibiotics. When I got there this morning they were already in the process of flushing out the cavity (they had to remove a good part of her rib in order to get to the abscess). This will need to be done daily. She was a good girl, as always.
Dr. Stieler was off today (she deserved it!) but came in any way for the flushing of Ambrosia’s cavity and to check up on her. Everyone is so good to Ambrosia – it’s like home away from home except there she is in AC without flies!
Waiting for her to fully wake up from sedation after having the cavity flushed.
Her appetite was good and she’s drinking fine. She devoured her treats today.
Listening intently to little Billy “baaa” to everyone.
At times she looks very tired but that’s very understandable. She does have swelling in her legs – especially the back ones.
There was almost an aura about her this afternoon – the light in her eyes shines on.
Just being around Ambrosia makes you feel good. While you can see the effects that neglect has taken on her you can also see past them – you see the beauty she is both inside and outside. Her heart is full of gold. She has the right attitude and is very tolerant of what is being done to her – a huge plus to get her through this. She has another surgery coming up on the other side – possibly at the end of the week.
Please continue to keep Ambrosia in your prayers. There are still many things that can go wrong but we don’t, and won’t, dwell on them. Her care team monitors her closely. I can’t thank Dr. Stieler, Dr. MacKay, Dr. Freeman and Dr. Dymock (lead surgeon’s), Dr. Husted, Erik and all of the wonderful people at UF enough – from the minute you walk into the main office you feel welcome.
Ambrosia is in ICU and she has eyes on her 24/7. It’s comforting to know that there are many people that care about this wonderful mare that was kicked to the streets to fend for herself – neglected, sick, and all alone. But she now knows that she is loved and that she matters. We are all making a difference to Ambrosia.
Some have asked for pictures from yesterday. I’ve included a couple below but be forewarned – some may consider them graphic. One includes the rib upon removal.
Please don’t forget to share the link to Horse and Man – a very informative blog at bhfer.melissa. We have a long way to go to raise enough funds to cover her expenses. In addition to the hospital expenses there will be aftercare – medications, follow-ups at UF, etc. All donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small.
Thank you all – God bless and have a good night everyone!
Sincerely,
Theresa
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org
Auction Items
We are holding an auction of several really beautiful items on Facebook but we want to share them off of Facebook as well.
This should have gone out yesterday via email but I just didn’t get to it – I apologize. Funds from auction items sold will be applied towards vet bills. Thank you!
AUCTION DETAILS:
Bidding will start today (9-4-12).
Minimum bid will be posted on each picture.
Bids must be in $5 increments.
Bidding will end at midnight on 9-11-12.
Bids can be e-mailed to bhfer.melissa
"See the Light in His Eye" Print
Donated by: Jeri Ann Young
Your choice of 8×10 (11×14 when matted) or
11×14 (16×10 when matted)
Water color
Minimum bid $40. Increments of $5.
Email bids to bhfer.melissa
(Current Bid $45)
"Ocean Scene" print.
Donated by: Jeri Ann Young
Your choice of 8×10 (11×14 when matted)or
11×14 (16×10 when matted)
Mix of water color and acrylic
Minimum bid $40, Increments of $5
E-mail bid to bhfer.melissa
No bids
April Hughes graciously donated this necklace to be auctioned off to benefit Ambrosia. It is hand made and 23" long.
Minimum bid $40.
Increments of $5. (No bids)
Czech Crystal Necklace Set- 18"
Minimum bid $25. Bid increments of $5
Donated by: Marie Riordan
No bids
Silver Silk Lariat Set – Silver/Gold 24"
Minimum bid $50. Increments of $5.
Donated by: Marie Riordan
No bids
Horse Necklace/Earrings- Brass 20"
Minimum bid $25. Bid increments of $5.
Donated by: Marie Riordan
(Current Bid $45)
Melissa Ingram
Adoptions/Events/Web Marketing
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue, Inc.
A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
www.bhfer.org