July 10th
I’m sorry for the late update on Willow – the hospital had something come up ahead of us and we were late getting her back to the rescue. Then we had another bad storm and had to do evening chores.
Dr. Specht suspected suture periositis/exostosis which is a suture (where cranium bones meet) separation – swelling of the suture lines occurs. The lumps on Willow’s head associate with the orbit of both eyes and extend across her forehead. This was confirmed with x-rays today at at UF which indicated a chronic fracture. Also, they tried to flush her tear ducts but had very little luck with the right side and no luck with the left – there is likely boney compression of the canal.
We have no idea when or how this happened. The only thing we can think of is that for some reason Willow flipped over or she ran into the side of the shelter (or perhaps the post at the front of the shelter) that she shares with Sophie – they are best friends and live together in a paddock. I’m wondering if it could have happened during one of the really bad storms we’ve had – some of the lightning and thunder were enough to make me want to run and hide! We’ve never seen her spook at anything. The treatment is anti-inflammatory meds and time. Her tear ducts will be checked again in a couple of weeks. It gives me a headache just thinking about it.
July 11th
Feels like 100 degrees. No breeze. We all love the overhead musters that are in the trees.
“Mommy Theresa please come play with me!” I think she’s serious. Look at those ears!
July 12th
“Auntie Sue did you know that if you blow into the water in the blue bucket that it will make bubbles?”
“Go ahead and try it! Ok then, watch and I’ll show you how to do it!”
This is what JoJo was doing about this time last year. Forget suds in the bucket – the suds were everywhere but in the bucket! He got into a bottle of Dawn and had a blast!
“Mommy Theresa please stop washing breakfast tubs and come play with me! Now, ok? Like right this minute, please?!?” There goes those ears again.
July 13th
Good morning everyone. I’d like to ask for good thoughts and prayers for Jazzy. He hasn’t been feeling well since yesterday. He’s just not right – he’s been semi lethargic. Isn’t running a temperature. Calling a vet out.
Jazzy may be a little bit better – we need to give him a little more time. He got Banamine and something to soothe his tummy today and Dr. Ted will decide if he should do blood work or not tomorrow. There were times today when Jazzy seemed to feel better but then I’d find him standing off by himself. He’s grazing and drinking and he’s gone poop. Hopefully he will be back to normal by morning so he doesn’t have to have blood drawn – he doesn’t care to have that done. Not at all.
We heard someone knocking on the door to the office. I looked out and saw those ears – it was JoJo! He said he wanted to come in and help me work. He made it to the laundry room but we had to stop him there and give him the bad news – he’s just a bit too big now. He wasn’t happy about it.
“I see the ramp! Mommy Theresa do I really have to go now? I didn’t mean to get the laundry room dirty. I rolled after it rained and got dirty. I tried to shake it off before I went in the house but that’s the best I could do!”
July 14th
Jazzy still isn’t himself so Dr. Ted did blood work. I’ll update when we get the blood work test results back.
Look at the baby’s butt. She’s shedding out and changing colors!
“I don’t want to wear a mask anymore!” Oh gosh, I think she’s been talking to JoJo!
Sophie Blue Eyes is up first to get her dental done today. She’s a 19 year old TWH paint looking for her forever home and for sponsors!
Good night everyone.
July 15th
Lucy is a mini mare that came to us with Big Head Disease, also known as Bran Disease. An explanation of this disease:
“A fairly rare nutritional disease in horses is nicknamed big head disease. The actual name is nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism, so the reason it is referred to as big head disease is because one of the major clinical signs is that the head bones grow too big. This enlargement occurs because the horse’s feed has an improper calcium to phosphorus ratio causing high phosphorus levels in the horse’s blood. This enlargement occurs due to a diet low in calcium and either high in phosphorus or low in vitamin D. Also, some grasses like Dallis grass, buffel grass, panic grass and Setaria contain high levels of oxalates, and these grasses decrease absorption of calcium. High phosphorus in the blood triggers a release of hormones that causes calcium and phosphorus to be resorbed from the bone. As calcium is absorbed from the bone, it is replaced by fibrous tissue that exceeds the amount of bone resorbed. Since the bones of the skull are affected, the head enlarges and causes the big head appearance.
In some cases, the head enlarges so much that horses cannot eat and their teeth loosen and fall out. Early signs also involve a shifting leg lameness due to weakened bones that can lead to fracture. Treatment involves changing the feed to one with a correct calcium to phosphorus ratio. Alfalfa is a good choice as it has a high calcium level. You can also add limestone to the alfalfa to increase the amount of calcium. It will usually take up to a year for these horses to improve, if they survive. So it is important to realize nutrition is important and feeding a balanced diet is critical for all animals. For this reason, the calcium to phosphorus ratio of all supplements you are giving your horse should be reviewed as some supplements could lead to problems.”
In Lucy’s case, by the time she was dropped off by her previous owner at Jungle Friends, her head had enlarged to the point it effected her breathing so much so she had to have a tracheotomy at UF. She coliced and she had trouble eating and drinking. Her liver values were really bad. The vets suggested she be euthanized. When I met her at UF, I saw a lot of life in her bright eyes – she wasn’t ready to give up. And here, we don’t give up without trying all avenues. We opted to have her brought to the rescue. We fed her through an IV for days but her little veins would collapse. Then we opted to syringe her Well-Gel many times a day. She was treated with acupuncture. We were able to buy her the time she needed for her body to adjust and heal. But she did lose a few teeth. The vets would call to see if she “was still with us”. They didn’t think she would make it – they are totally amazed that she survived. Today, Lucy is a happy little girl that runs and plays and loves life. Her head has gone down quite a bit. She still gets her Well-Gel and Calcium Ascorbate.
Lucy needs sponsors to help replenish both her Well-Gel and Calcium Ascorbate. The total needed is currently $260. Would anyone like to help? Our PayPal address is bhfer and there are other ways to donate via our website at www.bhfer.org. No amount is too small and all donations are tax deductible. If you can help, please note that it is for “Lucy”. Everyone loves Lucy! Thank you for your consideration!
Lucy says “Believe!”
Jazzy seemed a bit better today. His bloodwork had some highs and lows in it but the plan is to keep doing what we’re doing and give his body time to work it out – unless he gets worse. His temperature was normal today for the first time in 3 days.
The ball is getting smaller.
I wonder what Foxy was saying to Sophie Blue Eyes? Sophie must wear a long flymask to protect her face because her skin is pink. She’s a 19 year old TWH that is looking for a forever home with lots of shade.
Kellie had the same problem I do when trying to take pictures of Foxy. If you back up to take her picture she moves with you. She’s just precious!
Mocha is slowly coming around. She and Daisy have become good friends. Daisy doesn’t like Mocha out of her sight. It’s hard to see Mocha in this photo but she’s just on the other side of me sniffing my hair.
I’d say that JoJo has been talking to Foxy. I found her chewing on her flymask this afternoon while stomping on his!
July 16th
Our day started out with a rainbow.
I think this photo is adorable. There’s forage in the metal trash can. Beauty was sneaking but she got caught!
Mocha stood perfectly still for scratches and halter fitting today. She’s a 4 month old feral donkey.
“Mommy Theresa come quick! I can’t find my flymask!”
Willow’s lumps, Mocha baby donk, Foxy & More July 8th – 10th Update
July 8th
Mocha is slowly learning that she doesn’t need to fear humans.
She is going to be beautiful when she sheds out – I want to give her a bath so bad!
Girls just want to have fun! I’m so sad I have to work in the office for a few hours today!
Foxy loves scratches –
She has all of the humans wrapped around her little hooves!
You just can’t help but to want to sit and play with her all day long!
Foxy wanted to help Dr. Specht last week. She’s his smallest patient.
Her little mind is always turning – always thinking about what she can get into next.
We have to have eyes everywhere at the barn now to make sure we know where Foxy is at all times. She is so small she can stand under the back of the golf cart.
July 9th
Meet Beauty – the rescue’s namesake. Isn’t she beautiful?
Tomorrow we take Willow to UF for x-rays of her head – we need to know what the lumps are. She’s been seen by the dentist and vets. We believe she has suture periositis which is a suture (where cranium bones meet) separation and swelling of the suture lines occurs.
Foxy and Timmie, adorable even from behind!
Willow, JoJo, Foxy, Beauty, Jazzy & More July 10th ~ July 16th Update
July 10th
I’m sorry for the late update on Willow – the hospital had something come up ahead of us and we were late getting her back to the rescue. Then we had another bad storm and had to do evening chores.
Dr. Specht suspected suture periositis/exostosis which is a suture (where cranium bones meet) separation – swelling of the suture lines occurs. The lumps on Willow’s head associate with the orbit of both eyes and extend across her forehead. This was confirmed with x-rays today at at UF which indicated a chronic fracture. Also, they tried to flush her tear ducts but had very little luck with the right side and no luck with the left – there is likely boney compression of the canal.
We have no idea when or how this happened. The only thing we can think of is that for some reason Willow flipped over or she ran into the side of the shelter (or perhaps the post at the front of the shelter) that she shares with Sophie – they are best friends and live together in a paddock. I’m wondering if it could have happened during one of the really bad storms we’ve had – some of the lightning and thunder were enough to make me want to run and hide! We’ve never seen her spook at anything. The treatment is anti-inflammatory meds and time. Her tear ducts will be checked again in a couple of weeks. It gives me a headache just thinking about it.
July 11th
Feels like 100 degrees. No breeze. We all love the overhead musters that are in the trees.
“Mommy Theresa please come play with me!” I think she’s serious. Look at those ears!
July 12th
“Auntie Sue did you know that if you blow into the water in the blue bucket that it will make bubbles?”
“Go ahead and try it! Ok then, watch and I’ll show you how to do it!”
This is what JoJo was doing about this time last year. Forget suds in the bucket – the suds were everywhere but in the bucket! He got into a bottle of Dawn and had a blast!
“Mommy Theresa please stop washing breakfast tubs and come play with me! Now, ok? Like right this minute, please?!?” There goes those ears again.
July 13th
Good morning everyone. I’d like to ask for good thoughts and prayers for Jazzy. He hasn’t been feeling well since yesterday. He’s just not right – he’s been semi lethargic. Isn’t running a temperature. Calling a vet out.
Jazzy may be a little bit better – we need to give him a little more time. He got Banamine and something to soothe his tummy today and Dr. Ted will decide if he should do blood work or not tomorrow. There were times today when Jazzy seemed to feel better but then I’d find him standing off by himself. He’s grazing and drinking and he’s gone poop. Hopefully he will be back to normal by morning so he doesn’t have to have blood drawn – he doesn’t care to have that done. Not at all.
We heard someone knocking on the door to the office. I looked out and saw those ears – it was JoJo! He said he wanted to come in and help me work. He made it to the laundry room but we had to stop him there and give him the bad news – he’s just a bit too big now. He wasn’t happy about it.
“I see the ramp! Mommy Theresa do I really have to go now? I didn’t mean to get the laundry room dirty. I rolled after it rained and got dirty. I tried to shake it off before I went in the house but that’s the best I could do!”
July 14th
Jazzy still isn’t himself so Dr. Ted did blood work. I’ll update when we get the blood work test results back.
Look at the baby’s butt. She’s shedding out and changing colors!
“I don’t want to wear a mask anymore!” Oh gosh, I think she’s been talking to JoJo!
Sophie Blue Eyes is up first to get her dental done today. She’s a 19 year old TWH paint looking for her forever home and for sponsors!
Good night everyone.
July 15th
Lucy is a mini mare that came to us with Big Head Disease, also known as Bran Disease. An explanation of this disease:
“A fairly rare nutritional disease in horses is nicknamed big head disease. The actual name is nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism, so the reason it is referred to as big head disease is because one of the major clinical signs is that the head bones grow too big. This enlargement occurs because the horse’s feed has an improper calcium to phosphorus ratio causing high phosphorus levels in the horse’s blood. This enlargement occurs due to a diet low in calcium and either high in phosphorus or low in vitamin D. Also, some grasses like Dallis grass, buffel grass, panic grass and Setaria contain high levels of oxalates, and these grasses decrease absorption of calcium. High phosphorus in the blood triggers a release of hormones that causes calcium and phosphorus to be resorbed from the bone. As calcium is absorbed from the bone, it is replaced by fibrous tissue that exceeds the amount of bone resorbed. Since the bones of the skull are affected, the head enlarges and causes the big head appearance.
In some cases, the head enlarges so much that horses cannot eat and their teeth loosen and fall out. Early signs also involve a shifting leg lameness due to weakened bones that can lead to fracture. Treatment involves changing the feed to one with a correct calcium to phosphorus ratio. Alfalfa is a good choice as it has a high calcium level. You can also add limestone to the alfalfa to increase the amount of calcium. It will usually take up to a year for these horses to improve, if they survive. So it is important to realize nutrition is important and feeding a balanced diet is critical for all animals. For this reason, the calcium to phosphorus ratio of all supplements you are giving your horse should be reviewed as some supplements could lead to problems.”
In Lucy’s case, by the time she was dropped off by her previous owner at Jungle Friends, her head had enlarged to the point it effected her breathing so much so she had to have a tracheotomy at UF. She coliced and she had trouble eating and drinking. Her liver values were really bad. The vets suggested she be euthanized. When I met her at UF, I saw a lot of life in her bright eyes – she wasn’t ready to give up. And here, we don’t give up without trying all avenues. We opted to have her brought to the rescue. We fed her through an IV for days but her little veins would collapse. Then we opted to syringe her Well-Gel many times a day. She was treated with acupuncture. We were able to buy her the time she needed for her body to adjust and heal. But she did lose a few teeth. The vets would call to see if she “was still with us”. They didn’t think she would make it – they are totally amazed that she survived. Today, Lucy is a happy little girl that runs and plays and loves life. Her head has gone down quite a bit. She still gets her Well-Gel and Calcium Ascorbate.
Lucy needs sponsors to help replenish both her Well-Gel and Calcium Ascorbate. The total needed is currently $260. Would anyone like to help? Our PayPal address is bhfer and there are other ways to donate via our website at www.bhfer.org. No amount is too small and all donations are tax deductible. If you can help, please note that it is for “Lucy”. Everyone loves Lucy! Thank you for your consideration!
Lucy says “Believe!”
Jazzy seemed a bit better today. His bloodwork had some highs and lows in it but the plan is to keep doing what we’re doing and give his body time to work it out – unless he gets worse. His temperature was normal today for the first time in 3 days.
The ball is getting smaller.
I wonder what Foxy was saying to Sophie Blue Eyes? Sophie must wear a long flymask to protect her face because her skin is pink. She’s a 19 year old TWH that is looking for a forever home with lots of shade.
Kellie had the same problem I do when trying to take pictures of Foxy. If you back up to take her picture she moves with you. She’s just precious!
Mocha is slowly coming around. She and Daisy have become good friends. Daisy doesn’t like Mocha out of her sight. It’s hard to see Mocha in this photo but she’s just on the other side of me sniffing my hair.
I’d say that JoJo has been talking to Foxy. I found her chewing on her flymask this afternoon while stomping on his!
July 16th
Our day started out with a rainbow.
I think this photo is adorable. There’s forage in the metal trash can. Beauty was sneaking but she got caught!
Mocha stood perfectly still for scratches and halter fitting today. She’s a 4 month old feral donkey.
“Mommy Theresa come quick! I can’t find my flymask!”
Beauty, Foxy, Sophie, Willow, and more! June 30th ~ July 5th Update
June 30th
“Good morning everybody! I want to show you my other eye!”
Foxy’s tail is pretty long for only being 2 weeks old.
“I’m still trying to get a good look at my fox tail!”
“Mommy Theresa asked me to make a funny face, so here goes!”
July 1st
“Happy Wednesday morning everyone! I hope everyone has a really good day!”
Good morning from Timmie and Foxy and all of us here!
“Looky! I have another flymask! Do you like it?”
Foxy’s Moves https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKUUEpz8w4E&feature=youtu.be
Lucy is another one that somehow misplaces her flymask.
July 2nd
Good morning everybody. I would like to share this picture of Beauty doing something she hasn’t done in months. I moved her to another paddock last night and she started doing her Arabian dance – running and frolicking and showing off for the first time since she foundered. It was truly beautiful!
Dr. Bess Darrow (Tune Ups Veterinary Equine Dentistry and Services) checking out Foxy’s little teeth peeking through her gums. Timmie got her teeth done as well. OMG! Look how cute her teeth are!
Timmie was great for her dental.
Keeping Foxy entertained while Dr. Bess Darrow works on her mom’s teeth is no easy task!
Next up for his dental was Rascal!
July 3rd
The skies have opened up and the winds are sporadically horrible.
July 4th
We wish everyone a very safe and happy 4th of July weekend!
July 5th
“Look at my fox tail Auntie Elizabeth! Can you scratch more to the side please?”
From Handsome’s adoptive mom: Handsome was good enough to stay still so his mane could get some badly needed work. Romeo was VERY jealous at the attention that Handsome received.
Meet Mocha. She’s adorable. She’s about 4 months old and isn’t used to humans. But, like Jazzy, she’ll come around.
Here is a better photo of the lumps on Willow’s forehead.
“Mommy Theresa, now I know why the horses line up outside the feed room door – there’s lots of goodies in here!”
“Mommy Theresa let’s play you stack them up and I’ll knock them over and we can play hop scotch!”
Foxy just loves to visit with the humans – here she is visiting with Julie, Chris, and Roe.
I try to desensitize the babies to just about everything – I think it helps them the rest of their lives. JoJo is a good example. Foxy walks up behind me and pushes the back of my leg/knee with her nose when she wants attention. She may be a bit spoiled.
“Scratch a little lower Mommy Theresa!” And yes, I do have a farmers tan. Lol
It’s hard to believe nobody has applied to adopt JoJo and Jazzy as yet.
“Come on ball – let’s go find Sal, Betsy Rose and Freckles, and the others!”
Foxy will sleep just about anywhere. She’s like the energizer bunny until she just runs out of gas. Then she just plops and sleeps. Sure wish I could do that!
Foxy behaved very well for Dr. Mangan last week. Her eye is better but still has a ways to go. For some reason everyone wants to take photos of her. Dr. Specht looked at it again on Friday and was pleased with the progress.
Dr. Specht checked out Timmie too – she’s been coughing some. We think its an allergy.
Sophie and Willow. Sophie is one of the smoothest riding horses I’ve ever been on. She’s looking for a forever home.
Donkeys, Foxy, Cookie, Matilda & More! June 25th ~ 28th Update
June 25th
“Peek a Boo!” Foxy received a gift from “Doggles, LLC” today. Here she is getting introduced to a new mask.
“What do you think everyone? How do I look in my new Doggles? I’m not sure orange is my color but Mommy Theresa says I have another pair in pink that I get to try on tomorrow! Dr. Mangin is coming to see us tomorrow – I haven’t met him yet but I think I like him already. He’s helped Daisy a lot. I haven’t met Daisy or the other donks yet but I saw Matilda and OMG her ears are bigger than me!”
June 26th
Foxy meeting Julie yesterday. Everyone loves this little girl and she knows it!
Foxy was great for Dr. Mangan yesterday. We got some very good news – Foxy’s eye is better!
Foxy and her mom were very inquisitive about all of Dr. Mangan’s many tools. She’s teething and wants to put everything in her mouth! Her top two teeth have erupted. We’re so glad she’s feeling much better. That plasma really helped!
Dr. Mangan also examined Matilda’s eyes. Her right one is cloudy again so her eye medication was changed.
It was pretty cute when Foxy surprised everyone and ran away from her momma and under and around Matilda. Matilda just stood there and watched. Foxy knows no fear! She is so tiny! Lol Matilda is such a BIG love!
Sal told Foxy she looks like a pirate with the patch over her eye. Foxy doesn’t know what a pirate is. So tonight Freckles is going to explain and tell pirate stories!
What a hard life they live. lol
June 28th
Sophie is doing really well. She’s looking for a forever home.
I wanted to share a photo of Willow with the lumps on her head. Dr. Specht wants her to get x-rays.
Cookie is still doing great! And she sill loves to make faces for the camera.
Betsy Rose and her friends huddled today to talk about the future. They all agree that, while they like it here, some of them would like to find adoptive homes where they will have their own humans. They all now have some stories to share about their time here and living with Betsy Rose and Freckles!
We will be listing some of the dolls, that are exquisitely hand made with lots of love, on our auction page in the next few days. You will have an opportunity to become part of Betsy Rose’s family!
Foxy’s eye is getting better.
I do believe that Timmie and Foxy are very thankful to be here. They are just precious! Timmie’s coat looks so much healthier. Her eyes are brighter. It’s all good! Many thanks to our Village for helping us to help them!
Foxy had a couple more new friends arrive! I’m not sure what their names are yet but Foxy had a great time playing with them.
“Mommy look! I have more little friends! Come see! Aren’t they cute? Where’s Sal? I need to go find her and introduce them!” She even hugged the bear!
We were a little worried that they would survive – Foxy is teething.
But they did survive, and they met Sal, and Foxy played herself to sleep.
We enjoyed a visit from Serenity’s adoptive dad, Phil Yarbrough, last weekend. This is Sawyer saying hello. Thank you Phil for making time to stop in for a visit. It was nice seeing you again and meeting your family!
Aaleyah Belle getting a much needed bath. Thank you Roe!
June 29th
Good morning!
Foxy loves to make new friends. Timmie, well, she likes to make friends too but she really loves to eat. Lol!
A great little helper. She’s teething so she’s liking to chew on just about anything.
Her hoof is about the size of my big toe. My boots and tennis shoes are soaking wet and drying.
Happy donks!
Rascal getting a bath before the rains.
Some photos from the Birthday Party ~
The boys had their 1st birthday party with carrot cake too! We really tried to get the birthday boys and Betsy Rose together to open their cards but it just didn’t work out. The boys decided they wanted to play with some of them.
JoJo, Jazzy, and Betsy Rose all are very thankful for their birthday cards and gifts. The boys shared with Daisy. smile emoticon If you sent a card and don’t see it, please forgive us – the boys kind of demolished a few.
Betsy Rose looked at the cards for quite awhile. I wondered what she was thinking. We’re so very blessed that she is with us. We have always believed but Betsy Rose has also helped others to believe… She may have been left on the ground like garbage but look at her now – a proud and happy little princess! Thank you all for helping us to make all of her tomorrow’s everything her yesterday’s should have been!
Happy 25th birthday Betsy Rose!
Baby needs plasma… June 21st ~ 24th Update
June 21st
Timmie and Foxy. Look at that tail!
June 22nd
“Hi everybody! I’ve got a name! I’m Foxy! I’m learning that it’s ok for humans to touch me. I have an eye boo boo. I don’t like getting my eye medicine but soon it will be all healed. I have to go now. Talk to you later!”
The stress rings on Timmie’s little hooves tell a story. I don’t know what the story of her past is, but it’s history now. Life is starting all over for this little mare.
“Can someone tell me what a fox tail is? The humans keep saying that I have one – I want to see!”
June 23rd
Foxy was really good for Dr. Specht. She does have a really large ulcer that needs aggressive treatment. We’ll know more tomorrow based on some tests done today. Her blood work came back and I’ll share more about this tomorrow – it’s not great but I’ve seen worse. It’s been a very long day and we are all tired.
Please keep Foxy in your prayers. Timmie’s blood work wasn’t great either – typical of a horse that has not received proper care. She’s thought to be about 8 years old. We’ll be working on building up both of their immune systems. Please pray that they get better. I’ll update more tomorrow.
I’d like to ask for good thoughts and prayers for Willow. The vet will be seeing her today. She has some lumps on her forehead that have increased in size. It’s going to be something simple, it just is. She’s a sweet mare.
June 24th
Foxy’s blood work wasn’t great. She may be getting plasma today. She’s got some things going on and babies can take a dive really fast. She’s fascinated with her new friend that Auntie Betsy Rose gave her.
Dr. Specht will be out to run plasma soon. Foxy’s temp has been high most of the day and she’s not trying to nurse much.
Foxy got her plasma. I’m glad she’s so small. Dr. Ted says she is his smallest equine patient ever. She’s just precious. And fragile.
“Precious one, so small, so sweet. Dancing in on angel’s feet. Straight from heaven’s brightest star. What a miracle you truly are!”
Artwork by Greg Ambrose.
A baby? Yes! Foxy & Timmie
Foxy is a baby mini horse that was born on June 14th, 2015 with an eye injury. The owner, who works full time, reached out for help because they are not able to apply meds to the baby’s eye that are required every 2 hours. We named her Foxy because her beautiful tail looks like a fox tail! She’s always swishing it.
Welcome to Beauty’s Haven little one!
First things first – eye meds!
Timmie got a needed bath.
Timmie has some scars and marks on her. Her owner said they had recently bought her at auction, pregnant, where they were told she rides and drives so I’m thinking the marks are from ill fitting tack. A little boy rode her through the auction.
Timmie is chowing down on some forage. I think they will be ok. We’ll have the vet out to do complete physicals and blood work. Timmie will need to see the dentist and farrier too. And we want to get Foxy’s eye checked out again too by our vet.
This little girl and her daughter will never go through the auction circuit again. We don’t know how old Timmie is – her coggins says 8 but I don’t know that it is accurate. We will see what Dr. Bess says.
Timmie is going to be even more beautiful once she fills out and tones up!
I just realized – Foxy was born on Betsy Rose’s birthday!
Here’s Foxy’s cute little tail in action! Giving meds every 2 hours can be tiring but it’s worth saving an eye. We will have Foxy’s eyes checked out by one of our vet’s tomorrow.
What a great day for Bob on Father’s Day – helping a baby girl and her momma! Katie is home today too. We miss Joshua though – he is at work. Happy Father’s Day Bob – we love you!
Foxy and her mom, Timmie, have settled in. What a great day!
Meet Sawyer! June 18th Update
Lucy has been staying at the barn with the temps being 100+ degrees during the day – she’s not sweating. Thankfully, the new PortaCool arrived! Many thanks to the sponsor that took care of this!
Willow got a bath earlier in the week and a hooficure today. Thank you Cindy and Roe for helping today!
Some have asked how Beauty is doing – I’m happy to report that she is still recovering but she is better. She won’t be on grass for awhile (she was on a short walk from the paddock to her stall in this photo) but she is better which makes me feel much better. Thank you for caring.
Betsy Rose with DJ, a Tuesday volunteer that comes with her husband, Larry.
Meet Sawyer, an elderly pony that has joined our herd. He’s a sweet old (30+ years) soul – he reminds me a lot of our dear Casper whom we miss very much.
Sawyer will be getting his exam tomorrow by Dr. Julia Simonson, including blood work. Dr. Bess Darrow will be checking out his teeth on July 2nd. Hooficure today. Would anyone like to help sponsor this grand old boy?
Lots of hooficures! JoJo, Jazzy, Daisy, Lily, Ebony, Classy, Willow, Sophie, Donovan, Betsy, and our latest arrival, an elderly pony named Sawyer.
“Don’t laugh JoJo – you’re next! And Mommy Theresa says if we behave we can go out and play after our hooficures. So behave – I want to go play in the sprinklers with CaryLou!”
The donks were all well behaved for their hooficures today! Donkeys are so smart and they love to please but if they don’t want to do something, well, you just don’t tell a donkey what to do! I’m so proud of them for behaving today!
“But Mommy Theresa how come JoJo gets to work in the office and I don’t?” CaryLou is a stinker! His trachea still collapses now and then. But he hasn’t done his fainting goat impression lately.
Rascal’s barb wire injury is healing nicely. The socks from http://www.soxforhorses.com/ sure do help a lot.
Athena is so sweet – and beautiful! We are taking adoption applications on her now. She’s an easy keeper and would make a nice pasture pal.
Betsy Rose’s 25th Birthday Celebration
June 13th
Tomorrow is Betsy’s 25th birthday and the boys 1st but we’re celebrating today!
Betsy Rose is watching all the activity as the party preparations have begun!!
Cleaning Betsy’s suite on her birthday morning!
The kids are so anxious!
JoJo says it’s his birthday and he doesn’t have to wear his mask!
Even Duke wants to help get ready for the party!
Vermont Bear is just hanging around waiting for the party.
Lynn is mowing to make sure the barn looks nice for the party.
Some of Betsy Rose’s friends have arrived for the celebration!!
Our little miracle girl had quite a surprise for her birthday! Freckles, Raggedy Anne, Andy, and Vermont Bear had invited some guests that arrived the day before. We kept everyone comfortable and hidden in the office – we didn’t want to spoil the surprise for the party!
Elizabeth and Bri had given her a spa treatment. A nice bath, towel dried, mane braided. And they added bows – we couldn’t forget the bows.
“Come on Betsy Rose – it’s your birthday and there’s a surprise for you!”
Meanwhile, at the front of the barn, we all heard Freckles say “Shhhhh! Everyone quiet please! She’s coming!”
And then there was silence. Lol
I stayed on Betsy’s good eye side so she couldn’t see what was behind me (she can’t see out of her right eye). Once we got there I let her go and we all watched her eyes light up as she realized there were some new faces!
“Oh my gosh Freckles! Where did all of these dolls come from? They are precious! All of them!”
“Betsy Rose they were all hand made out of love and they came from far away! On their journey here, they all heard about you and just couldn’t wait to meet you in person! Do you know what people from all around the world call you? “Betsy Rose – the little mare that believes!”
“Well, thank you all for coming! You’re going to love it here – you can all bunk with me and Freckles and the others, ok? My suite is big enough for all of us! Besides, we don’t want one of the doggies or donkeys to pick you up and run away with you. Oh my gosh – look at the birthday cake that Auntie Blodwyn made for me! She always makes the bestest cakes!”
“Well, go ahead Betsy Rose and eat your cake! We’re going to sing “Happy Birthday” to you! Enjoy!”
You could just see the look of “Oh my gosh this is going to be delicious!” all over Betsy’s face!
We made a promise to Betsy Rose when she first arrived here that we would make all of her tomorrows everything her past should have been and we intend to keep that promise. We loved watching her meeting her new friends and enjoying her cake. She’s a bundle of blessings!
“Are you all sure you don’t want any of my birthday cake? Because it’s really yummy!”
“No thanks Betsy Rose – there’s another big cake for all the humans that we can share. This cake is all yours!”
“Freckles it was good to almost the last drop. But the last drop is stuck to the plate! I think I need Mommy Theresa to come hold the plate a little lower so I can get it.”
Betsy Rose doesn’t have to ask twice! I was happy to comply!
“Freckles this is a great birthday! I can’t wait to hear everyone’s stories about where they came from and all about them – can they stay for awhile?”
“Oh yes, they will be here for a few weeks and they want to hear your stories about life too. Everyone loves you Betsy Rose.”
“Mommy Theresa can you please load up all my new friends into the wagon and bring them to the shade of the tree? We’re going to start those stories today after my party! Thank you, and all my human friends, for making my birthday special. Oh, and don’t forget that the boys birthday is coming up a little later today – we can all have fun at that too! Just don’t let the boys leave with any of my friends, ok? You know that JoJo loves to run off with things!”
And so, new friendships are made and new stories will begin. Stay tuned for updates about Betsy Rose and her friends!
We had a wonderful day today – the birthday party was somewhat quick once it got started – it’s hard to keep the attention of Betsy and the boys for very long! I have pictures I’ll post tomorrow. I’ll be singing “Celebration” in my head for days to come! Lol
Barb Wire Injury – new arrival June 9th ~ June 12th Update
June 9th
The first song I heard on the radio this morning is Betsy’s Song “I Can See Clearly Now!” I’m taking that as a sign that it’s going to be a bright sun-shiny day!
We have strange things happen here. This dust storm came out of nowhere.
What a hard life these little ones live….
Daisy and her favorite front porch. Lol
June 10th
Mercedes says Serenity can share my stall anytime. We’re buddies now.
This little guy is about 10 years young and had a bad injury from barb wire that was not being treated and he has a large lump on the side of his face. It’s still an open case so I’m not in a position to provide more details at this time. I named him Rascal. He’s such a sweet horse. Look at those soft, kind eyes.
Rascal has a large mass on the right side of his face.
He has a barb wire injury – humans were seen riding him like this. Thankfully, a concerned person saw this and called authorities.
Rascal would bite at his injury while the flies were having a feast off of it – I just can’t imagine. We’ll get this taken care of as well as the mass on his face, his feet, teeth, etc.
Rascal’s feet obviously hadn’t been tended to in a long, long time.
There is almost no frog in any of his feet.
June 11th
Thankfully, Rascal is very good about letting us treat his barb wire injury.
He was really good with Dr. Julia Simonson for his exam. Blood work was done and a fecal.
The Summer Whinnies are so easy to use! Learn more about them at the website http://www.soxforhorses.com/ They are absolutely a great product.
Matilda – love those long ears! We’ve had to start putting medication in her right eye again.
June 12th
A cool bath first thing in the morning. I think Willow likes it!
A volunteer speaks out & more! June 1st ~ 7th Update
June 1st
“It’s all mine!” Bouie and Frodo really are the best of friends!
The “we are waiting for breakfast” crowd.
Mishka and Baby Ray
A year ago today Mary went to Rainbow Bridge. We love you Mary, always!
June 2nd
A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE ~
June 3rd
One of my favorite photos of you and Little E from your visit Laura Brasile.
A beautiful message from our dear friend, Laura Brasile. Laura lives in another state but volunteers at the rescue when she is in the area visiting family. Thank you Laura for your support, your time, and your kind words!
“Good morning to all! Just wanted to drop a line about my time at Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue. This was my second visit and my second time volunteering for a couple of days at the rescue. I want to start by saying how excited I get with every mile closer to being there. Driving down the road that parallels the rescue, well, there’s nothing like it. You start to see all the horses that you know and love one by one and then as you pull closer to the barn, you see the Princess herself, Betsy Rose. They are all so perfect and beautiful and so happy to see visitors coming.
One thing that strikes me the most is how fast time goes by at the rescue. There’s always so much to do and you’re constantly moving and I typically ate my lunch standing up because I couldn’t wait to get back out there. I would eat my salad next to Little E and breathe in his gorgeous horsie smell and just think about how happy I was to be there. The next thing you’ll notice is how hard Theresa and Bob work continuously, tirelessly…All. Day. Long. 24/7. Their hard work and dedication to these beautiful animals is second to none. They don’t stop all day and go long into the night. After one long, hot day, I had dinner with Theresa and Bob at about 8:30pm. During that dinner there was discussion about how a couple of the water tanks had to be cleaned and refilled and how the dogs needed to be fed and office work had to be done. Again, this was at 8:30 at night! Bob finished his dinner and went outside to handle the tanks while Theresa fed the dogs and got ready to tackle the HUGE pile of paperwork in the office. Which made me realize how lucky we are to get the updates on the horses that we can’t wait for. But they still come. And Bob goes out at 11pm to help a volunteer whose barn had flooded. These are amazing people who work 24/7 to keep everything moving and together.
Looking at the beauty of the property and the gorgeous horses and how clean and sparkling everything is, you tend to forget that all of this is supported by donations. Donations only. We all see the sad photos of the incoming horses and are tortured by thoughts of what they have endured and we all jump in to help when one of our own gets sick, but we tend to forget that even when everything looks to be going smoothly, the donations are still needed. Horses still need to eat, medications still need to be purchased, special socks for special needs, fly masks, fly spray, farriers and vets need to be paid…this money all comes from our donations. Realizing that, I am going to set up a monthly donation through their PayPal. I can’t afford to pay what I’d really like to pay but I know that every single dollar counts. Even if someone could only afford $10 per month, it still helps. I’ve decided to have my coffee at home or at work and stop going to Starbucks. That money will now be going to Beauty’s Haven Equine Rescue. You can do this too. It’s a beautiful thing to do and helps the horses more than you can imagine. And the rescue is a 501(c)(3), which means that it’s a non-profit and if your company has a matching gift program, the rescue qualifies – more donations to help the horses = win-win! Honestly, Theresa is one of the most generous, genuine, honest, hardest working, beautiful inside and out, people that I’ve ever met. Total respect and I’m happy to say that I think of her like family. Sorry this is so long, this is something that I feel very passionate about. Thanks for still reading (if anyone made it this far, lol). Consider donating what you can and/or setting up a monthly donation. You will be helping more than you can ever imagine.
Sorry this is so long, this is something that I feel very passionate about. Thanks for still reading (if anyone made it this far, lol).” ♥”
Laura
Waylon and Little E sharing some hay. Waylon sure did fill out nicely.
Did you know…the “average” life span of a horse is 25 to 30 years. At BHFER Little E is our oldest horse and he is 32 years young!!! Who is your oldest??
June 4th
Well, Jazzy must feel much better. Kylie and I clipped him a few days ago. He didn’t care too much for it but he wasn’t too bad about it.
“That ball is bigger than us Daisy!”
JoJo claiming he was “guarding” my water. I can’t tell you how many water bottles he’s demolished.
Lucy got a hooficure and a bath a few days ago.
Willow is doing very well and is looking for a forever home.
June 5th
Here’s our Fun Fact on our Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue page today – thought I’d share it here too…
Do you know…BHFER has strict policies when adopting out a horse? One policy is “barb wire is not acceptable”. This is for the horses protection. It only takes a few inches of barb wire to injure a horse. Do any of you have a barb wire story to share? Prevention can literally save a life!
June 6th
Another Fun Fact from our business page!
Did you know…a male donkey can reproduce at 10 months old? Did you know that castrating a donkey is more risky than castrating a stallion? Does anyone know why? (Here at BHFER we have two male donkeys that are both castrated)
Congratulaions American Pharoah!
“Mommy Theresa, I think we have a little problem. The ear has to go through the hole with the other ear.”
Our boys are looking almost grown up! They are BFF. Hilarious to watch!
I think we could assume that CaryLou is not happy about the rain.
Betsy Rose is simply adorable.
Athena and Sisco doing a little grooming interaction. They are both looking for good forever homes.
I want a day that looks like this tomorrow (along with a cool breeze).
June 7th
Andrew and Katherine giving CaryLou a bath last weekend. Yes, I’m behind on posting pics. Lol
