I share this story each year at Christmastime. Some know it as “Only for Love” and some call it “The Old One.” We have several ‘old ones’ living out their sunset years at Beauty’s Haven and we are truly privileged to be able to share our lives with these incredible ‘Wise Old Souls.’ Our ‘old ones’ who are twenty years old and older, include Amira, Bouie, Dancer, Ebony, Frodo, Jo, Luiji, Magic, Mishka, Mo, Peaches, Shai, Warrior and Valley Girl.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the ‘old ones’ is their wisdom. They have lived through countless experiences and have developed a deep understanding of the world around them. Their interactions with humans and other horses, have shaped their perspectives and given them a unique insight into life. It is through their wisdom that they teach us valuable lessons about patience, trust, and resilience.
Many ‘old ones’ have special needs, but that does not diminish their worth or the love and care they deserve. In fact, their special needs often deepen the bond between them and their caregivers, as we work together to ensure their comfort and well-being. Their longevity is a testament to their resilience.
These ‘old ones’ are not just horses who have lived a long time; they are living testaments to the profound impact that animals can have on our lives. They remind us to cherish every moment and appreciate the wisdom that comes with age. We are truly blessed to have them in our lives, and they continue to inspire and enrich us with their presence.
*************
“The young couple had made their usual hurried, pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt the elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine which topped the hill behind the farm, and through the years had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside. The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, but they sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day’s end.
Crossly, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks. “Why do you not at least dispose of “The Old One.” She is no longer of use to you. It’s been years since you’ve had foals from her. You should cut corners and save where you can. Why do you keep her anyway?” The old man looked down as his worn boot scuffed at the barn floor and his arm stole defensively about the Old One’s neck as he drew her to him and rubbed her gently behind the ears. He replied softly, “We keep her because of love. Only because of love.”
Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley. So it was, that because of the leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smoldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the “Old One.”
In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back. He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire’s fury.
By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife. They thanked those who had come to their aid, and the old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as he clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, “We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas. Let us, therefore, climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared.”
And so, he took her by the hand and helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his hand. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they looked up and gasped in amazement at the incredible beauty before them. Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this.
Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy as he pulled his wife forward. There, beneath the tree, was their Christmas gift. Bedded down about the “Old One” close to the trunk of the tree, was the entire herd, safe. At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping daintily through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares pressed uneasily against the “Old One” as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of those she loved. Her body was brittle with years, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift- because of love. Only because of love.”
Critical weeks ahead for severely malnourished rescue Flint
The majority of horses with a BCS of 1 and below usually don’t make it, as starvation takes a toll. We have had several cases of this nature, and while the majority have pulled through, there have been a few that we have sadly lost. The next couple of weeks are critical. We use the UC Davis protocol in our rehabilitation/refeeding process.
Although the vet assessed him to be 25-plus years of age, I truly believe that he wants to be around for many more years. He has a great mental attitude, which is very important in the healing process and his eyes are bright with hope.
During the process of starvation, the body depletes fat and muscle, causing a slowdown in metabolism and resulting in weakness. The horse struggles to regulate its temperature, and the immune system becomes compromised. The body first utilizes fat for energy, and once that is exhausted, it turns to muscle tissue, including the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and heart. This depletion of muscle leads to a loss of electrolytes and proteins, causing a deterioration of the digestive system and reduced nutrient absorption. Flint’s gastrointestinal function has been significantly affected, and restoring his ability to digest and absorb feed will take time.
We are committed to supporting him through this, with patience, a proper refeeding plan, and plenty of tender loving care. He truly deserves it.
—
On Tuesday, we received Flint’s bloodwork results, which reflected those commonly seen in a starved horse. While there are some highs and lows, it’s encouraging that there are no signs of infection, but his fecal exam did reveal that he was positive for parasites. Flint’s stool has become more formed, his appetite remains strong as you can see by clicking on the image above, and he is drinking well.
He was slightly less active on Tuesday, and that is okay – we don’t want him burning much needed calories. He remains very vocal and engaged with everything happening around him. We will repeat the blood tests in about a week.
Last night, with the cold temperatures rolling in, we had Flint all tucked in with a cozy blanket which I’m sure he truly appreciated. It’s a bit large on him but we ordered a new one that should be a better fit. Hopefully, it will be here within the next few days.
Lastly, the farrier came out today to take care of Flint’s neglected feet which made him quite happy.
We will schedule our equine dentist once he is stable and gains a bit more weight.
Please keep Flint in your thoughts and prayers. Your positive support is greatly appreciated. Here, we firmly believe in the power of prayer and in miracles.
His Name is Flint
Flint, our most recent rescue, successfully made the trip and unloaded just fine. He seemed to be a bit more chipper and he even managed to say ‘Thank you’ which you can hear by clicking on the image above! He had a good night and was happy to go out this morning. He’s such a very sweet and kind horse. He was so hungry when we picked him up, but he now appears to truly love and appreciate his delicious hay and slurries.
Upon his arrival, my initial assessment revealed that Flint’s heart rate was normal, his gut and lungs sounded okay, his capillary refill rate was about normal, albeit he was a bit dehydrated. His temperature was a bit low but he was out in heavy rain before we picked him up so once at the rescue, we placed him under heat lamps to make him feel more comfortable. He taped in at about 600 pounds.
There was quite a bit of sand in his feces – I could even hear sand sounds in his gut.
We let him relax and adjust to his new surroundings last evening and scheduled the vet to come to the farm today in order to perform an examination and run necessary tests.
Mentally, he certainly is in no frame of mind to give up. I do believe this sweet horse wouldn’t have made it much longer – there was no grass, no hay, nothing for him to eat except perhaps, bark off of trees.
Thanks to all in advance for allowing us to grant yet another precious soul a second chance at life.
We will update once again when Flint’s test results have been evaluated.
—
LAST CHANCE TO DOUBLE YOUR DONATION!
A dear friend and supporter has come forth and has offered to match all donations up to $2000 in order to assist us in procuring our much needed gates.
This is a perfect way in which to apply your year-end contributions while keeping the Beauty’s Haven herd safe at the same time. Just click on the ‘DONATE’ button above if you would like to contribute.
Thank you all for your love and support throughout 2024.
Saved in the Nick of Time
And so a new chapter in life for him begins. I think he came to us in the nick of time.
We wanted to start the New Year by helping this poor twenty-five year-old Quarter Horse gelding. The photo above on the left was taken last week, while the image on the right was taken just this morning. Since temperatures will be dropping down into the 30’s this coming week, he needed to get here sooner than later, so we decided to take possession of him a few hours ago. After meeting him, his condition seems to have worsened as he is much weaker, but he is so very very sweet.
We don’t know what medications and supplements he may need until his blood test results are evaluated. He also will need quality alfalfa hay in order to get started on the UC Davis re-feeding protocol. We would be forever grateful if you could help us help this sweet gelding. Just click on the ‘DONATE’ button below.
Thank you, all, in advance for allowing us to grant yet another precious soul a second chance at life.
We will update again tomorrow once he has settled in.
Only Because of Love 2024
I share this story each year at Christmastime. Some know it as “Only for Love” and some call it “The Old One.” We have several ‘old ones’ living out their sunset years at Beauty’s Haven and we are truly privileged to be able to share our lives with these incredible ‘Wise Old Souls.’ Our ‘old ones’ who are twenty years old and older, include Amira, Bouie, Dancer, Ebony, Frodo, Jo, Luiji, Magic, Mishka, Mo, Peaches, Shai, Warrior and Valley Girl.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the ‘old ones’ is their wisdom. They have lived through countless experiences and have developed a deep understanding of the world around them. Their interactions with humans and other horses, have shaped their perspectives and given them a unique insight into life. It is through their wisdom that they teach us valuable lessons about patience, trust, and resilience.
Many ‘old ones’ have special needs, but that does not diminish their worth or the love and care they deserve. In fact, their special needs often deepen the bond between them and their caregivers, as we work together to ensure their comfort and well-being. Their longevity is a testament to their resilience.
These ‘old ones’ are not just horses who have lived a long time; they are living testaments to the profound impact that animals can have on our lives. They remind us to cherish every moment and appreciate the wisdom that comes with age. We are truly blessed to have them in our lives, and they continue to inspire and enrich us with their presence.
*************
“The young couple had made their usual hurried, pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt the elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine which topped the hill behind the farm, and through the years had become a talisman to the old man and his wife, and a landmark in the countryside. The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll, but they sold a few foals each year, and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day’s end.
Crossly, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks. “Why do you not at least dispose of “The Old One.” She is no longer of use to you. It’s been years since you’ve had foals from her. You should cut corners and save where you can. Why do you keep her anyway?” The old man looked down as his worn boot scuffed at the barn floor and his arm stole defensively about the Old One’s neck as he drew her to him and rubbed her gently behind the ears. He replied softly, “We keep her because of love. Only because of love.”
Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley. So it was, that because of the leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smoldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the “Old One.”
In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now, and the blazing heat drove him back. He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire’s fury.
By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left, and the old man and his wife. They thanked those who had come to their aid, and the old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as he clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, “We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas. Let us, therefore, climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared.”
And so, he took her by the hand and helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his hand. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they looked up and gasped in amazement at the incredible beauty before them. Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine, and it was aglow with heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this.
Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy as he pulled his wife forward. There, beneath the tree, was their Christmas gift. Bedded down about the “Old One” close to the trunk of the tree, was the entire herd, safe. At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping daintily through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames, and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares pressed uneasily against the “Old One” as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of those she loved. Her body was brittle with years, but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift- because of love. Only because of love.”
On This GivingTuesday
GivingTuesday was established as a straightforward concept: to dedicate one day each year to ignite the spirit of love and generosity around the world. And today, we are thrilled to kick off our GivingTuesday campaign, starting with a $1,000 Match Game! Each and every donation up to $1,000 will be doubled. A $10 donation will become $20, and so on, until we reach $1,000, which will then turn into $2,000! Our goal this year, is to raise $10,000.
You may contribute to our GivingTuesday campaign by clicking on the image above or on the ‘Donate’ button below.
At Beauty’s Haven, we are immensely grateful for the compassion and support we’ve received from our wonderful community of friends and supporters throughout the years. Your kindness has empowered us to carry out our essential mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, rehoming, and providing sanctuary for countless animals – equines, canines, felines, cows, and goats – who oftentimes find themselves abandoned and alone through no fault of their own.
We genuinely appreciate your assistance during our unforeseen emergencies during the past year, as well as for your contributions to our routine care expenses. We faced a number of challenges in covering significant surgical/veterinary expenses, particularly, Amira’s hospitalization, the impaction and subsequent surgery for our dear Benjamin, Baby Eleanor’s eye removal, as well as Gabriel’s final expenses including burial. Additionally, we incurred necessary veterinary, dental, and farrier costs for our new arrivals; Addi, Cracker, Ford, Tobias, Dusti Rose, our sweet newborn orphan goat, Gabi, as well as for our recently returned senior mare, Shai. Our TNR program has also incurred expenses in relation to spaying, neutering, and vaccinations. We are, thereby, designating this year’s GivingTuesday fundraiser towards addressing these costs while also replenishing our medicine cabinet with essential supplements and medications.
Thank you in advance for being an integral part of our mission by allowing Beauty’s Haven to continue its quest of being a place where “Life Begins, Again!”
Sincerely,
Theresa
Forever Grateful
A Year Ago Today
It was a year ago today that Beauty went to Rainbow Bridge but it seems like a lifetime ago.
I will never miss her any less. She brought so much happiness to my life for more than twenty years. Losing your heart horse really shakes your world and changes so many things. At least it did for me.
Please click on the image above to view a video of my beloved Beauty.
Benjamin
Many thanks to everyone for the kind words and prayers in the loss of our Benjamin. We were very blessed to have had him for the time we did – I’m just sorry that it wasn’t longer but God had other plans for him. I do miss him, very much. Grief, is truly, the price we pay for love.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Sweet Eleanor
We never have a dull moment here at Beauty’s Haven! As you all know, we are involved in a TNR program and we routinely, try to trap the feral cats that visit the farm on either Monday or Tuesday evenings in order to take them to a low cost spay/neuter clinic the next morning. On Tuesday evening, however, we were completely exhausted and didn’t plan on arming the cage which I can activate from the house with a remote control. The cage door, however, unexpectedly dropped down when a cat likely bumped it as we found a momma cat and one of her four kittens in the cage later that night (please click on image above).
When we arrived at the low cost TNR clinic on Wednesday morning, they were at full capacity for the entire day so we had to take them to another vet in town. When I went to pick them up, I only returned home with the kitten whom the veterinary staff lovingly named Eleanor. Sadly, Eleanor’s mom bit one of the veterinary technicians and is now in QT for the next ten days while Eleanor is resting comfortably in our catio following surgery to remove her eye. I am sure she misses her beloved momma but she does have Allie to keep her company.
Momma cat is still a kitten herself, born in April/May of this year but disappeared when she was about four months old. But, a few weeks ago she showed up at the farm with four kittens in tow. One kitten was mostly white but we have not seen her for a few weeks. Sadly, white kittens/cats don’t seem to do as well here as they appear to be easy prey for coyotes and birds. Eleanor always sticks close to her momma, while her two other siblings are more adventurous – we saw them again a few nights ago (we have cameras set up) and they are all thankfully just fine. We will try to catch them in the near future.
If all had gone as planned, we could have had the spays and vaccinations performed at a low cost TNR clinic, but due to Eleanor’s painful eye injury, we simply could not wait.
Sincerely,
Theresa
Our Hearts are Forever Broken
Love leaves precious memories. I have no words tonight, only heartache.
Yesterday, I took our sweet Benjamin to the hospital for the second time this week. He had been sick after chewing up part of a pillow from a cat bed. We were unaware of just how much he had ingested, but he thankfully, threw up, as well as passed, some of the pillow contents. Sadly, he began vomiting after having eaten his meal, so we took Benjamin to the vet on Monday where x-rays were taken and fluids were administered – he was quite dehydrated. As nothing was found on the x-rays, and his bloodwork was good, medication to alleviate his nausea was prescribed which would hopefully, enable Benjamin to begin eating once again. Sadly, he continued to refuse his meals and subsequently, he lost quite a bit of weight. I continued to run fluids while constantly monitoring his vitals.
As there still was no sign of improvement, Benjamin was taken to the hospital again yesterday, whereupon, a second set of x-rays were performed which now revealed a blockage. Benjamin immediately went into surgery and the vet felt confidently, that all had gone well. Benjamin was released to return home at the end of the day. We got him comfortably settled into the home office and monitored him closely as he rested. A couple of hours later, as I was talking to him, holding his head across my lap, Benjamin, unexpectedly, but peacefully, transitioned to Rainbow Bridge.
Most of you are aware that Gabe has been fighting COPD ever since he arrived at Beauty’s Haven three years ago. Against all odds, we were able to get his COPD under control to a degree where he was comfortable. A few months ago, however, Gabe’s condition worsened, so our last hope was to send him to a foster home where there would be less dust. While there, Gabe initially was so much better, but he recently started to take a dive. Our care team determined that Gabe was at the point where his quality of life was just not where it should be and would only further deteriorate. We made the sad and painful decision to release him from his pain and yesterday morning. Surrounded by those who loved him dearly, our beloved Gabe peacefully transitioned to Rainbow Bridge.
It’s Me, Gabi!
“I have a name – it’s Gabi! I was an orphaned baby goat but now I’m part of the Beauty’s Haven family. I was weak and didn’t feel good when I got here – and I was scared. I had been laying on my right side after I was born for what seemed like forever. My mommy had left me there and I didn’t know what to do. So I just laid there. But then I was taken to where I am now. When I got here, I couldn’t even stand up. Mommy Theresa massaged me and worked my legs. I got something called colostrum and milk replacer and then I felt better. And then guess what happened? I started hopping and jumping around! It makes the humans smile and laugh!
I made my first animal friend here. Her name is Kiah. She’s a dog that needed help, too, when she got here. She only has two toes on her front foot because she chewed the others off to free herself from being tied to something. But she gets around just fine and we have started to play together. And I met two orphan kittens, Dash and Dottie, who like to play too!
So… I think I’m going to be okay. I feel better and I’m not scared anymore. Please click on my image above to view how far I’ve come!
Thank you all for caring!”
Love,
Gabi