December 19, 2016
I share this story each year and it always means as much to me as it did the year before. It reminds me that I’m doing exactly what I’m meant to do with my life – helping horses. We help the young, the old, and all ages in between – they all matter. The old mare standing over the foal in the photo is Grandma Bones. She came to us literally skin on bones in 2006. Grandma lovingly assumed the motherly role to Chloe, a nurse mare foal. It was a heartwarming relationship that I was blessed to have witnessed. Grandma may have been an old one but she offered Chloe so much. The wisdom in her eyes and unconditional love in her heart was strong. The few short months that Grandma gave to Chloe before succumbing to issues related to her neglect and starvation were priceless.
Many lost and abused souls find their way to us – we do our very best to help them heal and come to know unconditional love. Whether they are with us for an hour, a day, a month, or years – they regain dignity and they know that they are loved. While we’ve suffered many losses over the years, we have also rejoiced in many new beginnings. And it’s only because of your help we are able to do what we do and we thank all of you for that.
Only for Love
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.
Author: Reverend David Griffith
Please consider making an end of year donation that will help enable us to keep continue in our work. No amount is too small and all donations are tax deductible. Donations can be made various ways via our website and our PayPal address is bhfer@earthlink.net.
If you’re not in a position to donate there are others ways to help! We are eligible to win up to $50K to help the horses from the Eagle Rare Life Award Contest – we’ve made it to the Top 30 – voting ends January 5th, 2017! Help make this go viral – share with family and friends and ask them to vote and share too! We can do this! BELIEVE! Just click on this link and cast your vote! Thank you!
#eaglerarelife #award #theresabatchelor #horsesareheros #bhfer #vote #helphorses #charity #nonprofit #equinerescue #bourbon #share #beautyshaven #becauseoflove #theoldone #makethisgoviral #heroism #grandprize50k #donate #wecandothis #nevergiveup #keepthefaith #BELIEVE
EMMA – FILLY SHOT MULTIPLE TIMES – 02/06/17
February 6th, 2017
Our attempt to pick up the filly yesterday evening was unsuccessful. She wasn’t bearing weight on her left front and when we were told that she had not received her pain medication for the past two days. We made sure that she received it before we left. Since she was too uncomfortable to load onto the trailer, and we ran out of daylight, we decided that it would be in the filly’s best interest to try again in the morning. When we returned on Sunday morning, this sweet girl loaded, with a little support and encouragement, in less than ten minutes. Believe…..
Finally home! Upon our arrival at Beauty’s Haven, Emma unloaded, looked around, walked to her stall, and proceeded to introduce herself to everyone. She’s a talker and is absolutely precious!
February 7th
Our sleeping beauty this morning. We are getting ready to go to the hospital.
For those who don’t know her story – Emma, was shot with a shotgun while out grazing and sustained multiple injuries. A pellet hit her upper jaw. She took a pellet to the cheek that shattered inside and lodged in the roots/sinus area. There’s a pellet behind her right ear that is right on top of the spinal column. A pellet grazed her just below the eye. A pellet lodged in her distal cannon just above the fetlock on her left hind and there are others in the front. Her front left splint bone is fractured. Her left front knee joint has an infection along with fractures from a pellet that is still lodged in the joint. I know it sounds bad, but her vet, Dr. Sausville, and the surgeon, Dr. Lugo, both feel she has a really good chance of recovering from her multiple wounds. She is bright eyed and sweet. She’s not running a temperature and her appetite is great.
We are taking her to Ocala Equine Hospital today where Dr. Lugo will perform her surgery on Tuesday. We’ll keep everyone updated as we can. We’re still very busy here – Magic is still getting eye meds several times a day and, now, Cookie has an ulcer in her left eye. With so many special needs horses here, well, there’s just never a planned day – but we love them all anyway!
We would like everyone to give a big shout out to Dr. Sausville for all he’s done for Emma – we appreciate him very much! We would also like to give a huge shout out to our amazing village of supporters for joining together to help us, help Emma! Thank you, all, for sharing Emma’s story and offering kind words of encouragement. Thank you, too, to our wonderful Match Game sponsors and to everyone who contributed to our fundraiser, making it a complete success.
Please continue to send Emma good thoughts and keep her in your prayers. We believe that she will be okay. We invite you, to ‘Believe,’ too.
UPDATE 02/07/17: It was learned during surgery that Emma was shot with bullets, not buckshot.
FILLY USED FOR TARGET PRACTICE? THIS IS URGENT!
February 5th, 2017
A vet contacted us about a three year old Quarter Horse filly that was shot – he does not want to euthanize her and we are her last hope. She has multiple buckshot fragments lodged in her. The vet found her with blood from her nose and mouth from the wound over the upper jaw. The wound on the cheek shattered the inside – the pellet lodged in the upper cheek molar roots/sinus area possibly may need to be removed. There is a pellet wound behind her ear – that pellet is right on top of the atlas of the vertebral column. There’s a wound where a pellet grazed just below her eye. A pellet is lodged into the distal cannon above the fetlock on the left hind along with ones in the left front and there are other leg wounds. The split bone is shattered. A big concern is infection and the damage done to her knee which is pretty swollen.
The filly needs constant oversight and care, medications, and a stall which she presently, doesn’t have. She’s turned out on many acres with other horses which puts her at risk for more injury and infection. And she needs surgery ASAP.
We had a surgeon look at her x-rays today and he feels that she’s got a good chance of recovering – surgery can be done this coming week. But we need your help to make this happen. We need $2500 to $3,000 for her immediate needs/surgery. We don’t know how much aftercare will cost but we do know she needs help now if she has a chance. We were not planning to take in any additional horses until some here are adopted out – we are maxed – but I’ve met this filly and she’s determined to overcome. She’s full of life and deserves a chance. When the vet says, “You’re her last chance,” and you see the life in her eyes, well, we just can’t walk away.
A wonderful friend and supporter has offered a Match Game to help with the surgical/medical needs of this sweet girl so all donations up to $500 will be matched! Donations are tax deductible and can be made via various means on our website at website or via our PayPal address: bhfer@earthlink.net. If donating via PayPal, please designate your donation for ‘QH Filly.’ If you select the tab for ‘Friends or Family,’ no fees will be deducted from your contribution.
Please help us give this girl a chance. We want to get her here ASAP in order to provide her with the care that she so desperately needs.
Thank you, as always, for your continued love and support.
* * * * * * * * * *
Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue Inc. is a 501(c)(3) grassroots Non-Profit Organization registered in the state of Florida (EIN: 20-4783950). We are not funded by Local, State, or Federal funds. We operate totally from donations from the public. Please consider making a one time or recurring donation to help the horses. No amount is too small and all donations are very much appreciated. Donations are tax deductible.
Beauty’s Haven was awarded Verified status by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) in 2012. GFAS is the only globally recognized organization that provides standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries. Awarded November 2014 Equine Hero. A Guidestar Exchange Silver Participant and a GreatNonprofits Top Rated Non-Profit 2014, 2015, and 2016.
MAGIC’S INJURY
January 13th, 2017
Yesterday was not a good day for Magic but he knows that it will get better. He has an issue with his right eye which needs to be treated for several days. Yesterday, he learned that a flymask wouldn’t gobble him up. He’s such a brave boy!
For those who don’t know Magic, he’s a 17 year old Arabian stud that had been used in the Mexican “sport” of horse tripping. Magic was lucky to have survived, but it left him emotionally scarred which made him a good candidate for being sent to slaughter as humans considered him to be crazy, unmanageable and even dangerous. He’s untrusting of humans which is truly understandable. I’m certain that the nightmares he endured will never be erased from his memories.
There are some that strongly feel that Magic should be molded into a “normal” horse. I’ve spent countless hours with him and I understand him. Just imagine the pain, anxiety and fear he survived. He doesn’t care for ropes – scars he wears tell a story. I refuse to make him endure anything that he is uncomfortable with. He accepts me – I do what I need to do to address any medical issues that may arise and I’m grateful to him for that. I know this horse inside and out – Arabians are very intelligent and communicative. We can’t take away his past but we can ensure that all of his tomorrows are happy and carefree. And that’s what we intend to do. Magic is a happy horse that will live out the rest of his life on his terms. We promised him that.
Magic has come a long way. He often approaches other humans now and may even ask for scratches. But humans are not allowed to walk after or chase him. If he walks away, and he often does, that’s his prerogative. He’s a very special horse. Oh, and I taught him to give kisses a few years ago!
I believe in Magic and I’m very proud of him! Now, let’s hope he tolerates the treatments to his eye. Prayers and positive thoughts would be so very appreciated!
Magic also needs sponsors – his medications are not inexpensive. Our PayPal address is bhfer@earthlink.net. Donations can also be made via our website. All donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small.
Thank you all, for your continued love and support.
#magic #believe #bhfer #trippinghorsesurvivor #horsesareheros #ibelieveinmagic
TINSEL’S FREEDOM – THANKS TO YOU!
December 31st, 2016
We have wonderful news! Dr. Mangan saw Tinsel last weekend and her eye is much better! She’s only on one eye medication now! As he was examining Tinsel, little Betsy Rose let it be known that she was not at all happy that Tinsel was standing in her place in the aisle-way. Dr. Mangan was truly amazed at Betsy’s remarkable spunk!
Dr. Bess found a lose tooth when she worked on Tinsel last week. Tinsel surely did need to have some work done.
Tinsel should feel a lot better now that her lose tooth has been extracted!
January 7th, 2017
Dr. Ted Specht came out yesterday and removed Tinsel’s lavage! Tinsel will finally get to be turned out now which is going to make her very happy! She’s will soon start to put on some muscle tone together with additional weight.
Tinsel will finally get to be turned out now which is going to make her very happy! She’s will soon start to put on some muscle tone together with additional weight.
January 8th, 2017
Tinsel had a wonderful time exploring the farm today!
FROM ALL OF US TO ALL OF YOU!
May your New Year be full of love and many blessings! Thank you for your continued support!
Sincerely,
Theresa, Bob, Barbara, Jeanne, Elizabeth
And All of the Horses
WINTER HAY – THANK YOU
We’re almost out of time! Please vote daily and share out – ask others to vote. We could win up to $50K for the horses! We DID make it to the Top 30! http://eaglerarelife.com/content/theresa-batchelor
#eaglerarelife #theresabatchelor #horsesareheros #rt #forthehorses #bhfer #believe #votedaily #heroism
ONLY FOR LOVE – THE IMPACT OF YOUR SUPPORT
December 19, 2016
I share this story each year and it always means as much to me as it did the year before. It reminds me that I’m doing exactly what I’m meant to do with my life – helping horses. We help the young, the old, and all ages in between – they all matter. The old mare standing over the foal in the photo is Grandma Bones. She came to us literally skin on bones in 2006. Grandma lovingly assumed the motherly role to Chloe, a nurse mare foal. It was a heartwarming relationship that I was blessed to have witnessed. Grandma may have been an old one but she offered Chloe so much. The wisdom in her eyes and unconditional love in her heart was strong. The few short months that Grandma gave to Chloe before succumbing to issues related to her neglect and starvation were priceless.
Many lost and abused souls find their way to us – we do our very best to help them heal and come to know unconditional love. Whether they are with us for an hour, a day, a month, or years – they regain dignity and they know that they are loved. While we’ve suffered many losses over the years, we have also rejoiced in many new beginnings. And it’s only because of your help we are able to do what we do and we thank all of you for that.
Only for Love
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.
Author: Reverend David Griffith
Please consider making an end of year donation that will help enable us to keep continue in our work. No amount is too small and all donations are tax deductible. Donations can be made various ways via our website and our PayPal address is bhfer@earthlink.net.
If you’re not in a position to donate there are others ways to help! We are eligible to win up to $50K to help the horses from the Eagle Rare Life Award Contest – we’ve made it to the Top 30 – voting ends January 5th, 2017! Help make this go viral – share with family and friends and ask them to vote and share too! We can do this! BELIEVE! Just click on this link and cast your vote! Thank you!
#eaglerarelife #award #theresabatchelor #horsesareheros #bhfer #vote #helphorses #charity #nonprofit #equinerescue #bourbon #share #beautyshaven #becauseoflove #theoldone #makethisgoviral #heroism #grandprize50k #donate #wecandothis #nevergiveup #keepthefaith #BELIEVE
Humans helping horses or horses helping humans?
December 15, 2017
Please vote for us today in the Eagle Rare Life contest and share this update – ask family and friends to vote too! We could win up to $50K for the horses! A vote a day and asking others to vote, sharing out across social media can help tremendously! It’s free and very easy! #Littlethings like this can make a big difference to the lives of many horses and long ears. The contest is over in only a couple of weeks.
Click on the photo below and you can read about Beauty’s Haven and how and why we got started!
We’ve been given another day – enjoy its to the fullest. Begin each day with a “thank you” and please don’t take even a second for granted. I personally know that life can change in the blink of an eye. Tell those you care about how much they mean to you. Never give up on your dreams and always BELIEVE….
Thank you all for your support!
#eaglerarelife #bhfer #nevergiveup #horsesareheros #believe #greatnonprofits #charity #lifeisagift #helpahorse #equinerescue #spinalcordinjury #liveyourdream #littlethings #share #votedaily #contest
THERE’S STILL TIME!
Beautiful Christmas cards that can help you spread holiday cheer and help the horses at the same time! But order soon because Christmas is almost here!
Ruby has always loved to be photographed and we think she’s quite beautiful! These 5″ x 5″ cards with envelopes come 20 in a pack. Orders may be placed by clicking here.
The Christmas gift tags are absolutely beautiful. This tag features our sweet Betsy Rose. Please place your order by clicking here.
Bouie Gift Tag. Please click here to place your order.
Our Gift Tag featuring sweet Ruby is a perfect complement to our Christmas card. Please click here to place your order.
Loretta Tourville Armstrong honored Gentleman with her beautiful artwork! These gorgeous folded matte finish notecards feature “Gentleman” and precious orphan baby donkey, “JoJo,” having a discussion in the barn. Get a set of 10 now (with envelopes) by clicking here.
There are only a few of our 2017 Beauty’s Haven calendar still available. Each month contains beautiful photos of our beloved horses and donkeys! Just click here to order your calendar today!
Our magnetic note/list pads make great stocking stuffers or gifts for many occasions. Just click here to place your order.
Donations from all of these items will go 100% to the horses!
Happy Holidays and thank you all for your continued love and support!
Please remember to cast your daily vote today in the Eagle Rare Life contest. It could help to win $5K to $50K for the horses! Just click on this link and cast your vote!
Wishing everyone a wonderful day!
#eaglerarelife #bhfer #betsyrose #horsesareheros #nonprofit #horserescue #vote #contest #merrychristmas #holiday #ruby #bouie #ordertoday #helpthehorses
Good Thoughts for Ruby Please
12/07/16 Wednesday
Ruby could use some good thoughts and prayers – she’s not feeling well. Dr. Julia examined her and her blood work results should be back tomorrow.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8TH…
Dr. Specht was out this evening to follow up on Ruby for Dr. Julia. We’re so blessed to have such a wonderful support team! Ruby’s initial blood work came back and the results were not good so additional lab tests were done this afternoon. We received the lab report this evening and the results are quite worrisome. Please continue to keep sweet Ruby in your thoughts and prayers.
Please remember to cast your daily vote in the Eagle Rare Life contest. It could help to win $5K to $50K for the horses! Just click on this link and cast your vote!
Wishing everyone a wonderful day!
#eaglerarelife #horsesareheros #bhfer #betsyrose #vote #helphorses #charity #nonprofit #ittakesavillage #equinerescue