February 14th, 2014

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

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

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

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

February 13th, 2014

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

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

She is dominant and constantly picks on him.

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

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

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

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

Dr. Porter’s mobile clinic is pretty amazing!

Gentleman getting his hooficure.

Oscars first hooficure.

Thank you all for your continued love and support.

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

February 14th, 2014

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

Voila! Not just detangled but braided too!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I just love this noble Arabian!

Sincerely,
Theresa

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

#magic #stud #horsetripping #bhfer #arabian

February 10th – 12th 

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

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

Solace today. He was feeling ok. Thankfully.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 3 Musketeers "helping" Barbara and Katherine today. They are a riot! I can’t wait until it’s warm enough to clip them – they are fuzz balls.

Bronson got some extra attention today too. It was SO good to have sunny skies!

Serenity and Bryce are still having a tough time with their digestive system – they were just full of sand. We are slowing trying to kill off a heavy parasite load too. It’s just going to take some time.

Mahogany and Eliza were feeling a little bit better yesterday. Mahogany (mom) is a Mustang and Eliza (daughter) is a Mustang/QH cross. I think they were very appreciative of the warm blankets and a warm mash that they received. Both of these precious girls are a 2 on the Henneke scale. Their blood work values were all over the place. But their rehab has begun and I thank God for the opportunity. They both need sponsors – would anyone like to sign up to be a monthly sponsor for either of these girls? A sponsorship in any amount would be so greatly appreciated as would a onetime donation.

Eliza is a bit better.

Oscar is still unable to get up on his own and he wasn’t as active yesterday. His temperature was a bit low but he’s got his heat lamps and blanket and we have eyes on him 24/7 with our cameras – and we check on him throughout the night.

Oscar actually moved his back legs a wee bit last night in a weak attempt to get up – that’s progress! When he is down in his stall, we are using a simple hand cranked come along and a sheet to get him up. This is Barbara with him when we got him up this morning.

Solace isn’t feeling well today. Only ate 1/3rd of his breakfast. This is heartbreaking. Please keep him in your prayers.

Katie came home this weekend – I enjoyed watching her ride Indy. Hopped up myself for just a short time. Katie loves to ride which I can totally understand. LOL

Our little Indy is growing up.

"Hay – what’s in that room? I wanna come in!"

Sisco enjoyed some extra attention today. He’s still looking for a forever home!

Santana is stunning and very, very sweet. He is also looking for a home. He does have navicular and is a pasture pal only.

Valentine’s Day is coming! Betsy Rose wears hearts so beautifully! I think she’s stolen most of ours.

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

Somehow I managed to not send this out – I’m sorry for the delay!

Thursday, January 30th

Trying to get Serenity’s temp up a bit. It’s down to 95.5. We just put a therapeutic mesh sheet under her blanket which has been proven to increase circulation. She’s also under heat lamps.

The good news is that Serenity’s temp is up to 98.6. The bad news is that the hot water heater at the barn is broke. The company that made it is no more. It’s an instant heat model which I would never recommend.

Serenity seemed to totally enjoy the therapeutic mesh sheet. She got a hooficure which she really needed. So did Dodger, Pursuasion, and Bryce. Pursuasion is passing her oil as is Bryce. The dentist, Dr. Bess Darrow, will be coming to work on their teeth next week. They are all very sweet horses. Serenity wears a look of total love and appreciation…. I know they are thankful for everything done for them. And they love their hay.

The weather has been really dreary and cold but tomorrow the sun is supposed to come out so I’ll get some pictures. We will spend hours taking off, cleaning, and putting away blankets tomorrow. But I’m looking forward to it. I know the horses will be happy.

The medication dispenser in Morgans eye lavage system had to be replaced. It had somehow shifted and was causing irritation. She’s feeling better tonight.

Friday, January 31st

Good morning everyone! I’m behind schedule already this morning but I wanted to stop in and wish everyone a wonderful day. This is Marie Riordan standing with Serenity yesterday while she got a hooficure – she was a good girl. It was a quiet night here, which is good. I thought we were going to get some sun today but it looks like that’s not in the forecast.

Pistol has become a meeter and greater – he’s so cute! Here he is with Jessie, a visitor and friend, that spent the day helping out this week. Jessie and her husband, Ron, come down once a year to visit.

Please don’t forget that we have many horses looking for their forever home. Bronson, Mollie, Santana, Pistol, Morgan, Indy, Victoria, Matilda, Sisco, Gracie, and a few others. We need to find good homes in order to make space for others needing help. Our adoption requirements include no barb wire fencing, adopter’s must be within a reasonable distance from the rescue (some exceptions which are dictated by resources), etc.

For those that don’t know, our "Celebration of Life" is a special time we set aside to come together each year to remember and reflect upon the lives of horses with us, yet to be born, and those that have crossed Rainbow Bridge. It’s a time to meet our horses and volunteers – there will be tours, a silent auction, speakers, and more! We want to share what we do with the community – come and learn more about us and become part of our mission! Our 5th annual Celebration of Life is being held on April 26th! It is being held in conjunction with the ASPCA’s 2nd National Help a Horse Day which is a national effort on behalf of homeless horses and their caregivers! A flyer will be published but I wanted to get this out so those wishing to attend can mark their calendars!

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

February 7th, 2014

I spent part of the day yesterday with AC discussing the case involving Serenity, Bryce, Persuasion, and Dodger. There were six other horses remaining at the same farm – I met AC there and ended up bringing the two worst remaining mares here (very depressed, tummy ache, very emaciated) and the other four horses were taken by AC but will be available for adoption in a couple of weeks. AC determined the horses were abandoned.

I know the look Bryce had when he was experiencing painful sand colic – these two mares wore the same look. I was so worried about them – we just had to help them. Dr. Julia vetted them both as soon as I got them to the rescue. They are in about the same shape that Bryce and Serenity were in when they arrived.  I named the older Mahogany and the younger, Eliza.  Mahogany is Eliza’s mom – they seem quite close.  Like Bryce, both have a lot of sand in their poop which is not good.  Bryce is still dealing with sand colic and parasites – he’s been having quite a time but is slowly improving.  Mahogany’s temp was pretty low (95.5).  Both had tummy aches and looked so depressed.  We are awaiting the results of their blood work.  I’m sorry the photos are not great – the weather was lousy.  I want to thank everyone who made it possible for us to get another used truck – it’s saved many lives in the short time we’ve had it.

I feel badly for the entire herd but at least they are all safe now. If anyone would like to help these two mares, it would be a blessing. We brought them in with a lot of faith that help would come. If you would like to donate to help them, please mark your donation for “The 2 Mares”. They both need sponsors.

Eliza was working through some tummy discomfort last evening. I’ve been worried about this herd and am so glad they are all now safe. It’s frustrating at times, to have to follow the “rules” but laws, like them or not, are to be respected.

This is Serenity getting a treatment by Dr. Julia Simonson yesterday. Dr. Julia couldn’t believe how much better Serenity looks. While she was here, we reviewed our refeeding program for each of our new arrivals and Dr. Julia said she is very impressed with our progress with all of them – including Oscar (donkeys are a bit different then horses).

Dr. Julia visited with Bronson to make sure he forgave her for his castration. He’s looking for a home – he’s likely going to be small pony size.

Bryce enjoyed his treatment by Dr. Julia – the photo speaks for itself! He’s got a long way to go. Sand colic can wreak havoc on a body and be deadly. More tests need to be run next week.

Gentleman got a treatment as well – he has a sponsor for one treatment a month and they really make a difference. He is elderly, has high ringbone in his front right, and some issues in his back end. He is of good weight – anymore weight may work against him. He is happy and comfortable. We adore him – he is loved, very much.

Solace is still not doing well. Based on blood tests, symptoms, treatments to date, etc. it is possible he has lymphoma. Please keep him in your prayers. He’s had a good year with us and I hope he has many more. We will do our best to keep him comfortable – quality of life is always important in making decisions for these precious horses.

Oscar is so cute! I was trying to explain to him how much easier it would be for us humans if he could get up on his own. He is staying up longer when he is up though. Time – it will just take some time to build those muscles. Baby steps…

Morgan’s eye is better. There is still some swelling and the lavage is still in – she’s getting meds every four hours now and will be checked again next week.

This is a beautiful blanket that was donated to Betsy Rose several months ago which swallowed her up. It now fits!!! She loves modeling new clothing!

Oscar getting his fluids this morning. Teaching the youth of our today will only help the horses of our tomorrow’s! Roxy is a quick learner!

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

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

February 4th

Oscar’s first night here last night was a calm one, thankfully. He’s too weak to do much – but he’s alert. He can graze for short periods of time but is still too weak to get up on his own if he goes down.

Oscar learned through the night that he could sleep in the sling and lay his head on his pillow. This sling and gantry have been a lifeline so many times – we’re very blessed to have it.

After taking Oscar out of the sling this am, he grazed a bit and then took a good long nap but when he woke up he could not get up on his own so we put him back into the sling.  He just has no muscle, no fat. Dr. Madera will be back out later today.

To the left of the photo is Dr. Madera. To the right is Dr. Bess Darrow (her assistant is in the middle). How great it this?  Two awesome vets here at the same time!  We are very blessed to have such a great care team! We reviewed Oscar’s meds, diet, etc. We should have blood work results back this evening.

We opted to run more fluids this afternoon – Oscar’s poop was too dry and we didn’t want to take any chances of an impaction or dehydration. He loves his Triple Crown Safe Starch Forage and now and then he will munch on a little orchard grass. No grain for the little guy.  He does everything in slow motion – he doesn’t have much energy to burn. He also gets supplements to help his tummy, prevent dehydration, and improve his immune system. We monitor everything – both Dr. Darrow and Dr. Monroe said we are doing a great job! Dr. Bess even suggested we write a book on our refeeding practices and rehab experiences – that was quite the compliment!

“Pistol! Kamanchee is my best friend and you can’t have him!” Mary is a sweet 27 year young Arabian mare that is looking for a forever home. What would be perfect is to find a home for her and Kamanchee together!

Wally is hilarious! He tried to get in Dr. Bess’ trailer before the ramp was even all the way down!  Dr. Bess was here to do dental work on some of the horses.

Dr. Bess trying to leave amidst an obstacle challenge of mini’s. Check out Pistol “talking” with Matilda.  That’s Lucy to the right of the photo.

February 5th

Serenity has a long way to go. But we’ve got all the time in the world to get there. The temps were near 80 today and the water heater decided it would work so she got a tea tree treatment for the rainrot. The hot water tank works sporadically but thanks to a very caring person a new replacement tank is being shipped to us!

Serenity thanks you all for caring!

This is LouAnn taking Oscar for a walk today. The photo isn’t great – I took it while I was standing under the sling.

We are supposed to be getting some rains the next couple of days so this evening we fixed up a nice stall with straw bedding for Oscar. He still can’t get up on his own – he just has no muscle. But the muscle will come over time with proper diet and exercise and rest.

Oscar’s blood work results came back – values are all over the place indicating lack of nutrition. But his organs, according to the blood work, are not too bad.  We do need to re-run some blood tests in a few days. We will be adding Wel-Gel to his forage. Please pray for this little guy.

February 6th

Good morning everyone! It’s going to be a beautiful day! We do have overcast skies and it may rain and the temps are lower than I’d like. But my day has already been blessed – I woke up this morning and I BELIEVE! Dr. Julia Simonson is coming to work on Oscar with acupuncture and electrical stimulation (like a TENS unit) which will stimulate his muscles – we need to get the nerve pathways back on track! I invite all of you to share in my day of positivity and believing – together we can move mountains!

“Good morning everyone! SMILE! It can be contagious!!”

Oscar was a good boy for Dr. Julia. Hopefully he won’t have to stay in the sling much longer. He just can’t get up on his own after he goes down.

Solace still isn’t feeling well and his temperature is up. He was just examined on Tuesday and everything was ok. I’m really worried about him. Please include him in your prayers too.

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

February 1st – 3rd, 2014

Joanne Kelley and Elaine visited yesterday – it was so nice to meet them! Putting names to faces and introducing the horses is something I truly enjoy! I probably talked way too much! LOL

Joanne wanted to get slimmed by the famous Aaleyah Belle – well, she got it ok!

All of the little boys wanted to be the first to say “Hello!”

Indy and Baby Ray are doing great!

Betsy Rose is almost looking a little chunky.

Solace wasn’t feeling so very good today. Hopefully it is just a change in weather.

Cookie is such a sweet girl. I’m not liking what I’m seeing in her eye though. Hopefully Dr. Porter can get out to the farm in the next few days.

Bella is doing better at her foster home with Kim Furse. She’s been started on a new protocol for her respiratory issues which are better. Bella is happy getting more one on one attention at Kim’s and she has a best friend mare named Winnie!

Don’t forget….

Have a great week, everyone!

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

February 3, 2014

I was in the city at the doctor’s office this morning when I received a request to help a baby donkey. He was located about 30 miles further north of where I was, but I did my best to get there as fast as I could. It was sort of in the middle of nowhere and I know that getting a vet out in that area can be hard. This little guy is not quite 2 years old and has been unable to get up for a couple of days.

When I got the call I was in our mini van – I had just left the doctor’s office. Once I got to him, it didn’t take long for others to get him in the back.  I truly felt there wasn’t enough time for me to go all the way back to the rescue for the trailer.  I prayed he would hang on – the vet would be waiting for us at the rescue.   Prayers were answered.

Dr. Madera was waiting for us at the rescue. He greeted her with those darling long ears.

It didn’t take long to get him out – he was a really good boy for the hour long trip. I sang and talked to him all the way to the rescue. I have to wonder what he thought. He was likely very glad when I finally shut up!

It made me feel a lot better to have him out of the car. And I was so glad Dr. Madera was already here. The little one is pretty thin and very, very weak.

After Dr. Madera examined him, we gently rolled him over and into the sling. He was like a rag doll.  But I think he knew we were helping him.

He never complained and never tried to get up. He moved his front legs a little but not the back legs. Not knowing what caused his condition, that was reason for concern.

Once he was in the sling, we positioned the gantry. Still no movement in the back legs.

Once the sling was hooked up to the gantry, Bob started to raise the sling. The baby got his front legs under him but didn’t even try to get his back legs under him – he just hung there in the backend.

We gave him a little time – when the body has been down for awhile, things start to go to “sleep”. It took a couple of minutes and a little massaging and encouraging, but he finally got it.

Seeing him try to move his legs under him really made us feel good. We didn’t know if there had been any spinal cord/nerve damage.

We offered him some forage while an IV fluid concoction was run – he was very dehydrated. He stood with the sling supporting him. When the gantry was rolled into the paddock, he tried to walk so we let it down some – he did carry his own weight for a couple of steps!

After giving him some time to rest, he looked like he was interested in the grass. He was holding his own weight. So, we said a prayer and removed the sling/gantry.

He was still weak but he grazed, drank water, urinated, and went poop.  I want to thank the family who owned him for reaching out for help and then for letting him go. Life can be challenging at times and unexpected things happen. I am a believer that God puts people in our paths just when we need them at times. I am glad we are able to help.

He is still too weak to get up on his own if he goes down so he will be staying in the sling tonight. Prayers for this baby are very much appreciated. We hope it’s a very calm night.

If anyone would like to help with the baby’s expenses it would sure be appreciated. No amount is too small. Donations can be made via our website at www.bhfer.org. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Theresa

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