July 5th

“Mommy Theresa it’s time for breakfast! Let’s get the day going – we’re already a couple of hours behind!”

Kylie and I just tried a different mask on JoJo and he showed his disgust by literally throwing himself down and having a fit! Silly boy!

July 6th

It was a busy weekend here – I’ll try to get an update out tomorrow evening. I have PT in the morning and Kiana will be going to her new home tomorrow. Today Kiana grazed up on Frosty’s Knoll while Betsy Rose wandered around the house to graze. Yesterday Kiana played with the mini’s for awhile – she didn’t even notice when Betsy Rose wandered back to the barn to take a nap by the fan. I’m so glad that Jody and her family have been coming to spend time with Kiana – it will make the transition easier for her. As for us humans that are watching her go, well, I keep telling myself that this is what we do. With help from others we did our part with Kiana and now it’s time for her to start her next chapter in life – but she’ll always be part of our family. And she’ll only be 30 minutes away. Have a good night everyone.

This is JoJo going exploring with Sylvie. He’s so funny!

Kiana, Cookie, and Betsy.

July 7th

I never say good-bye – they are part of our family, always. It’s always hard when they go.

Kiana settled into her new home today without any concerns. We’re so proud of this little filly!

“You’re Gentleman! Oh my gosh – you’re so big up close and personal! You look a lot like Donovan! I’m JoJo and Freckles told me all about you and the others! She says you’re the senior here. Well, I’m the junior! Can we pal around sometimes? Why is Mommy Theresa putting braids in your mane? That’s ok – they put a little blue bow on my butt one day. The humans thought it was cute!”

This is Judy holding Donovan so I could hose him down and treat a new boo boo on his back leg. He has stopped sweating and is staying in under fans during the days now.

Betsy Rose – gotta love her! She’s so expressive!

Oscar and Pistol will be going to their new adoptive home tomorrow. It just isn’t going to be the same here. Kiana and now these two. But – this is what we do. These two will literally be just down the road, less than 2 miles away. They are going to a friend of Dr. Julia’s and we’ll get updates and photos often. I’m so glad they found a home together.

A VERY SPECIAL FUNDRAISER!
A one of a kind offer! For our latest fundraiser, we are offering a lovely Betsy Rose & Kiana 16” x 16” pillow! A suggested donation of $5 for each chance may be forwarded via our donate page: theresa. Please designate your donation, ‘Betsy Rose & Kiana Pillow.’ The winning name will be selected in Morriston, Florida, on July 15, 2014 at 6:00 pm EDT. All proceeds will be applied to the needs of the Beauty’s Haven Horses.

We are a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. Donations are tax-deductible. EIN: 20-4783950.
IMPORTANT: In accordance with Chapter 496, Florida Statutes, the Solicitations of Contributions Act, the following information is provided:
Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue, Inc., Registration No.: CH21245
“A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE OR OUTSIDE FLORIDA AT 850-410-3800. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.”
“The percentage, if any, of each contribution that is retained by any professional solicitor that has contracted with the organization is Zero %.”
Beauty’s Haven does not use professional solicitors. “The percentage of each contribution that is received by the organization is 100%”
©Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue

Sincerely,
Theresa

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

Friday, June 27th, 2014

Finally! He’s got it figured out! No more 2 am wakeups! Go JoJo!

Take your donkey to work day! He’s a good helper!

A bittersweet update on Kiana. The family that fosters Bella has been coming to spend time with Kiana over the past few weeks and they have totally fallen in love with her and Kiana looks forward to their visits. Kiana is doing great – she’s more active and independent each day. We’ve been turning her out with the boys to play with because she’s just become too energetic for Betsy Rose. Kiana likes to run and kick and play like babies should – and it’s a wonderful and warm sight to see! Sometimes, we lock up the mini’s and donkeys that stay around the house and let Betsy Rose and Kiana out together and Betsy Rose will run with Kiana too. But I won’t risk Betsy Rose out with most of the others – she is too fragile. Her hearing and sight are not great and she startles easy. Betsy is fine about Kiana spending time out with the young ones – she doesn’t fret nor does she get anxious when Kiana is out of her sight. Betsy is a wise healer of sorts and will be here to help future arrivals. I think this was her destiny and she knows it. I thank God for her each and every day.

I assure you that nobody could love Betsy Rose or Kiana and care more about their welfare than we do.  This decision wasn’t a quick one – it’s taken some time, observation, and prayers but Kiana is ready for her forever home and we love her enough to allow her to go – she deserves this. Jody home schools her sons and there is someone home around the clock.  They have a mare with a baby that is about Kiana’s age.  Their farm is beautiful and it isn’t far from the rescue. They will keep us updated.  This is never easy.  But this is what we do – we must in order to make room for others that need help. Jody and her family will be here again tomorrow to spend more time with Kiana.  We have other visitors coming tomorrow too – it’s going to be busy!

Kiana palled around with Lucy a bit this afternoon. It was so hot and humid today, the boys didn’t even run and play. We have 3 sets of visitors coming tomorrow – I sure hope and pray the weather is a bit kinder than today.

Kiana has had a growth spurt. She got a hooficure yesterday. She’s also starting to get some needed muscles from running and playing with the mini’s and donkeys.

Saturday, June 28th

“JoJo it’s time for you to go back in your room now. The morning sun is out and Kiana wants to come out for awhile.”

“Ok Betsy Rose. I’m ready for a nap anyway. I helped mommy Theresa and Kiley with morning barn chores while you and Kiana had breakfast. It’s gonna feel like 106 today – we’re all going to bake!”

It was a very busy day today – lots of visitors and smiles! I love to see others interact with the horses and donkeys!

Roxy bathed a few horses including Serenity. I know they all loved it – the heat and humidity were horrible. Serenity and her brother, Bryce, are looking for a forever home.

Aaleyah Belle, Sisco, and Victoria.

This is Valerie Goldsmith and Ted meeting our little Betsy Rose.

Jody and her family will post updates on Kiana. Its so hard to let them go. We spend days and nights helping them to heal mentally and physically – we love them all dearly. We love them enough to let them go when the time and circumstances are right.

Kiana got to spend time with her adoptive family. She just eats up the extra attention. You certainly can’t tell she got a bath 2 days ago. LOL

Is this not simply adorable? This is Violet visiting with JoJo. Violet’s 3rd birthday is next weekend – happy birthday Violet! I enjoyed meeting you and your mom and dad! Thank you Ashley and Lyle!

Pistol and Oscar – what a pair they are! They are both ready for their forever home and it would be simply amazing if they went together – they are so very bonded. Donkeys have been known to grieve deeply when they lose their best friend – I don’t want that to happen.

Baby Ray got a much needed bath and some playtime with Kylie Chapman today.  He’s a stinker! He got a hooficure too.  Baby Ray is also looking for a forever home.

A VERY SPECIAL FUNDRAISER!

A one of a kind offer! For our latest fundraiser, we are offering a lovely Betsy Rose & Kiana 16” x 16” pillow!  A suggested donation of $5 for each chance may be forwarded via our donate page: theresa. Please designate your donation, ‘Betsy Rose & Kiana Pillow.’  The winning name will be selected in Morriston, Florida, on July 15, 2014 at 6:00 pm EDT.  All proceeds will be applied to the needs of the Beauty’s Haven Horses.

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.

June 24th, 2014

Meet our late incoming arrival last night – a few day old mini orphan donkey. I named him JoJo. He’s the result of irresponsible breeding. He has learned to drink from a bottle and he’s gotten really good at it – thankfully. I need to get going… – something happened with our dishwasher and the kitchen was flooded this morning. I’ve been on my knees with the Rainbow vacuum for what seems like hours – we have wood laminate flooring.
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June 25th

JoJo has a couple of nodules at his left eye that we’ll be keeping a close eye on. We are still waiting on his blood work to come back. He’s a good boy.

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JoJo was vetted this morning by Dr. Julia Simonson. She thinks he’s about 7 – 10 days old. We’ll have his blood work back this evening. He’s doing ok and has a great appetite (thankfully). Around his eyes are so sunburned – he’s got pink everything. Does anyone know where we could get a tiny sunsheet to protect JoJo? And a baby mini donkey long nose mask? He’s only like 30 lbs.

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Aunt Judy adores JoJo! I asked her if she’d babysit for a few minutes this am. She was on his level playing with him before I could finish asking. LOL

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Betsy Rose was thrilled (so were the rest of us!) when Auntie Karen stopped by unexpectedly today! Karen spent many hours with Betsy Rose during her rehab.

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Oscar and Pistol are like bookends. Where one is you’ll find the other. They love to play tug of war with anything. And they love to upside down poop buckets in the early morning hours and pretend they have a 2 donkey band.

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Kiana enjoys her play time out of the barn area. She’s had a growth spurt! I’ll update in more detail about her tomorrow.

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Kiana and Harvey grazing while Betsy Rose opts to nap in her stall in front of her PortaCool.

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June 26th

Guess what?!? I have a name! It’s JoJo! I met so many humans today – it was like – wow! And they all drooled over me! I’ve never had so many hugs and scratches – I didn’t know a little guy like me could get that many in one day! I wish you all could meet Betsy Rose – she is like the Queen of this barn! She’s very kind and she’s quite talkative when she gets hungry. Freckles told me what h…happened to her before she came here – that was really sad. Everyone here is just so, well, like family! I saw some really long ears today on a HUGE mule named Matilda. I mean – her ears are as long as my body! And then there are Oscar and Pistol – more long ears. They are like brothers. And there’s lots of other horses I haven’t met yet but I will. Mommy Theresa says I have to stay inside when the sun is out but I get to come out when it’s cloudy and in the evening – my skin is so pink – around my eyes was already sunburned. I need to get to bed now – lights out soon. Nighty night everyone!”

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A VERY SPECIAL FUNDRAISER!

A one of a kind offer! For our latest fundraiser, we are offering a lovely Betsy Rose & Kiana 16” x 16” pillow! A suggested donation of $5 for each chance may be forwarded via our donate page: theresa. Please designate your donation, ‘Betsy Rose & Kiana Pillow.’ The winning name will be selected in Morriston, Florida, on July 15, 2014 at 6:00 pm EDT. All proceeds will be applied to the needs of the Beauty’s Haven Horses.

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Betsy Rose and Kiana – we’re so proud of these girls! They both BELIEVE!

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We need help to restock up on some supplies – would anyone like to help with milk replacer pellets ($70) and/or milk replacer powder ($40)? We need shavings 20 bags ($80) and Wel-Gel ($200). We also need hay. If anyone would like to help… donations can be made via our website at www.bhfer.org. No amount is too small and all donations are appreciated. Have a great day 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

We are a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization. Donations are tax-deductible. EIN: 20-4783950.
IMPORTANT: In accordance with Chapter 496, Florida Statutes, the Solicitations of Contributions Act, the following information is provided: Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue, Inc., Registration No.: CH21245 “A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-435-7352 WITHIN THE STATE OR OUTSIDE FLORIDA AT 850-410-3800. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.” “The percentage, if any, of each contribution that is retained by any professional solicitor that has contracted with the organization is Zero %.” Beauty’s Haven does not use professional solicitors. “The percentage of each contribution that is received by the organization is 100%” ©Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue

June 16th, 2014

The lavage was removed from Sisco’s right eye today – finally! This has been one heck of a challenge – he’s got a pretty good scar in his right eye. He’s still confined to a stall for a couple of days with limited and supervised turnout in a small paddock. I hope and pray he doesn’t rub it. He’s still wearing his hard cup mask. Would anyone like to help him – he could use help with the expenses related to this eye injury. Morgan and Victoria had their tear ducts flushed today – they could use sponsors as well.

Dr Ted Specht removing the lavage from Sisco’s eye!!!!

I have to get some paperwork done for my medical appts in the am so I’ll be offline until tomorrow evening. CaryLou – he’s a hoot!

June 17th

Good morning everyone! Busy day here today – I’m headed to Gainesville for an appointment with the neurosurgeon and for my physical therapy. The farrier is here this morning.Here’s Betsy Rose escorting Kiana out to explore around the house with the other little munchkins. She’s feeling better each day. Have a great day everyone and thank you for your support!

June 18th

Guess what just arrived?!?

Come on over girls and help me open the box – it’s a surprise from two of your Aunties! Betsy Rose simply loves it when new boxes arrive. She’s teaching Kiana it’s a good thing. LOL

“LOOK Betsy Rose! It’s one of those things that blows… cool air into our stalls! Oh wait – there’s another box! There’s TWO of them!”

“Oh wow – this means Ruby and Cookie can have one at their own coolers at their stalls! I’m going to tell them! Mommy Theresa – daddy Bob please get them set up soon! Come on Kiana – let’s go tell them the good news!”

The barn is a much cooler place now. These PortaCoolers are great and make such a difference! Many thanks and cyber hugs to our friends that donated them!

June 19th

“Oscar – tell mom we want to sleep in. Our bucket toss game until 2 in the morning wore me out. Just five more minutes, ok?”

Morgan is happy to be back with Santana.

Both kids came home this evening for dinner and short movie for Father’s Day. It was really nice!

Kamachee and Sayan love their new home! Especially the grass and wonderful shade – and their human mom!

Somewhere out there is the perfect home for Serenity and Bryce. I need you all to help us find it. Please share them and let’s find them a good forever home. More info can be found on our Beauty’s Haven Beauty’s Haven Equine Rescue Adoptions page.

Even in the shade and under a water hose it’s hot. Shade is scarce here but at least we have a few trees now that we planted a few years ago. It really drives me nuts to see properties that offer no shade or cover whatsoever for their animals. I can’t imagine baking out in this heat/sun with no relief at all.

Giving Gentleman a big hug while Dr. Julia worked on him on Monday. The heat has been really hard on many of them but the older ones are having an extra hard time.

Betsy Rose has something to share – more details can be found at this webpage:

Please consider a contribution to our Youcaring fundraiser to assist us with our outstanding veterinary bills.

http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/medical-emergencies-/188403

Thank you Dawn at Horse and Man for publishing the update on Betsy Rose!

Have a great night 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.

June 8th – 9th, 2014

Sue Sefscik visiting with Kiana and Betsy Rose. She can tell you – the girls are not spoiled at all.  Nope.

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Sisco is a giraffe when he wants to be!

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Here he is in his mask – I like this kind – it lets air get to the eye.

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I’m happy to report that Mollie is doing fantastic with her new family! We’ll let Joan Schaffer, her adoptive mom, keep us updated on her progress.  Thank you Joan for giving Mollie a human family of her own! Mollie was almost at Rainbow Bridge when we picked her up last November.  She’s an Arabian that has a heart of gold and is a determined little filly – she reminds me very much of Beauty, the namesake of Beauty’s Haven, when she came into my life at about the same age as Mollie.

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And now a message from Betsy Rose:

“GUESS WHAT?  Mommy Theresa says there is going to be a virtual birthday party on Facebook for me on Saturday!  I came to Beauty’s Haven on June 14th last year in very poor health – a lot of people never thought I’d live to see my 24th birthday but I believed I could do it! The humans here supported me and helped me for many months before I could live on my own again but they did it because they loved me and they believed in me too!

Mommy Theresa said some of you have asked what I need or want for my birthday. Well, my wish list is short – if anyone wants to send me a present, please consider sending a card with a donation instead so that I can share with my horsey friends here. Some of my friends have no sponsors at all – they all deserve something and I want my day to be their day too!  I’d LOVE to fill up my stall wall with cards!  And Kiana – she doesn’t know what a birthday is – she’ll love it too! You know what the first thing is we all taught Kiana?  TO BELIEVE!  Not just in herself, and that she can overcome her obstacles, but to believe in others that love her too and that the Beauty’s Haven “Village” will never abandon her.  Thank you all!

Oh – one more thing!  I’m going to make a BIG announcement at my virtual birthday party on June 14th on Facebook so please make sure to participate, ok?  I’ll give you a hint – carrots!”

~ Love, Betsy Rose

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An Arabian at the end of a rainbow! How lovely!

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Kiana was moving a little faster today. Slowly, but surely, she is improving!

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Since we have had a number of medical emergencies within the past few months, we have started a new Youcaring fundraiser to assist with the veterinary bills.http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/medical-emergencies-/188403

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Have a great night everyone – I’ve got physical therapy in the am so I’ll be offline for much of the day.

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

May 31st, 2014

I need to ask for prayers and good thoughts once again – Mary had a severe reaction to something – we don’t know what. The vet said she could have been bitten by something, she could have ingested something, we just don’t know. She had welts all over and she was having trouble breathing. She got fluids and we have been keeping vigil over her all day. Tonight she went into respiratory distress again and appeared to have cramps. The vet said the stress of whatever the allergic reaction was could cause her to cramp and/or colic. We just loaded her up and Bob is on the way to the hospital with her now. No others in her paddock have had any issues.

Mary is a sweetheart – a beautiful and noble Arabian mare. Please pray for her. My heart is very, very heavy.

June 1st

AM: Mary spiked a fever through the night and her WBC is low. She’s been started on antibiotics. We still don’t know what the issue is – they are running tests and treating symptoms. I’m here with Mary – she is not doing well. Dr. Hughes will be here to review their findings in a bit. Mary is in a stall that is just across the aisle from where Wally was. Please continue to pray for her.

I also learned this weekend that a friend and supporter of Beauty’s Haven, Cayle Wingard, has gotten her wings. Cayle loved horses so very much. I hope she’s already met Momma Sue, Wally, Barbaro, and others. She will be greatly missed. And Kathy Malloy lost her beloved Wesley today – I know she is feeling a huge loss and hurt too. It just hasn’t been a good day – my heart is very, very heavy. Sometimes a rescuer needs prayers too – that’s where I am right now.

PM: Please pray that Mary has an easy transition to Rainbow Bridge. Mary is 27 years old. Surgery to attempt to repair a strangulating lipoma/remove a portion of her gut would be very hard on her and her odds low. Mary will leave this earth knowing she is loved. She is a very proud Arabian mare that has earned her wings. I have asked her to take care of our Wally. We love you Mary.

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

#bhfer #mary #rainbowbridge

May 26th, 2014

Kiana is feeling better despite some side effects of her meds which are not unusual.

“Oh my gosh this little filly is starting to move around more! It won’t be long before she’s running circles around me and the barn! It’s about time for lights out at the barn – I think Freckles is about to tell Kiana another bedtime story. Y’all have a good night – sweet dreams! ”

May 27th

Kiana’s day was not a very good one.  Her temp is up a bit, her diarrhea got better but now it’s worse again, and she’s just tired.  The heat has been miserable but this evening when it cooled, and she normally gets a bit more active, she …just wanted to sleep.  I’m waiting for the vet to call to review her blood work from today. Elizabeth Fried and Bri came out to watch her so I could grab a bite to eat and take a quick shower. I totally stripped and sanitized her stall today.  Please keep her in your prayers.

It was quite the task but I stripped and sanitized Kiana’s stall today – there was just no way I can stay in there with her while there is hay/straw everywhere. I have respiratory issues and I can’t afford to get sick (which is where I was heading).

But – look at the finished product! I think Kiana really likes it! She went in and laid down and took a short nap. Then she got up and drank a good amount of water, walked around the stall, ate some milk pellets, and then went poop. And it was almost normal (makes it much easier to clean up!)!

Just before I headed up to the office she laid down and seems very cozy. She’s got Freckles and another one of Betsy Rose’s friends to keep her company. We will be reviewing her blood work with the vet in the morning. Please keep her in your prayers. Thank you!

May 28th

Good morning. Kiana and I are about to take a short nap. Naps are good.

Good appetite after a good nap.

“Mommy Theresa can I tell you something? Shhhh – I don’t want Betsy Rose to hear this. When I woke up this morning with my new colorful and clean floor and you right here it made me feel really good – I know you have breathing problems and the straw wasn’t good for you.  Can Betsy Rose have a floor like mine? It’s soft and she would probably really like it!  She said you brought her to the farm on June 14th – almost a year ago.  Maybe it could be a surprise anniversary gift?”

Kiana tried to help me update her care chart today.  I actually got a 20 minute nap in the house thanks to Bonnie! And guess what???? Katherine volunteered to do nighttime duty tonight!  Bob and I both get to SLEEP all night!

Kiana is a bit more animated this evening and her appetite is great! She still has diarrhea but she is drinking plenty of water – I haven’t had to run her fluids all day. It’s so wonderful to have help this evening! Kylie Chapman is taking care of most of the evening chores. Bonnie and Katherine are getting Kiana ready to be tucked in. Katherine is going to be staying with Kiana through the 3 am shift. Bob and I will be calling it a day SOON! Keep the prayers and good thoughts up for Kiana – they are working! We all agree these mats are great! BUT we need to see how they stand up to wear and tear. I’m sure they would not hold up for a full size horse. Someone surely makes heavy duty interlocking stall mats but I’d have to research it. I really like these because they are lightweight – but again, I don’t know how long they will hold up. I do know that I’m happy that Kiana is not having to breath dust (or me).

Betsy Rose is never far away.

Bonnie and Katherine are folding towels and chit chatting in Kiana’s stall. Kiana is still eating. She’s not going to be spoiled at all. Nope. LOL

Yesterday when I was stripping Kiana’s stall I left the gate open for just a second and guess who RAN out? Yes, that is Betsy Rose’s butt. She didn’t stay gone long but it was a first!

DJ holding Kiana yesterday so I could clean up her bite mark. It’s getting much better. Someday soon we won’t see the skin on bones. Kiana is going to fill out and be beautiful!

There’s nothing better than baby kisses as her nose tickles my cheek!

May 29th

We have poop vs soup! Go Kiana! I think we’re over the hump.

Kiana, a month old orphan filly, had a tough start in life but she’s slowly coming around. Her name came to me one night while I was sitting with her, promising her that her life would only get better. I apologized for how humans had failed her mom, and her. She was a confused little girl and you could clearly see that in her eyes. Kiana’s mom had given Kiana everything she had until she succumbed to starvation. Then Kiana tried to survive by nursing off another mare. But that mare rejected her – we are still treating Kiana’s open sores from bite marks. Her immune system was very weak when she came to us and her heart was broken. I saw this baby as a divine little lost angel that I vowed to help. “Kiana” means divine or heavenly in Hawaiian. It fits her perfectly. Kiana received plasma and has slowly improved. Her care has been constant. I didn’t know how much time we would have with her, but we are determined to do all we can to give Kiana the future that she deserves. She’s still a critical care case and requires around the clock care.

Kiana is one of many here that need sponsors – it takes a Village to help these horses. If anyone would like to help with her, or the vet bills of others here, donations can be made via our website at theresa. Donations can also be called into the vets office (Peterson & Smith) at 352-237-6151. Donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small. 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.

 

May 22nd

We got Kiana ‘s blood work back and there are a few concerns that we will working on. She had a much better night last night. She slept quite a bit. She was bright eyed and munching on milk pellets this morning. After breakfast I introduced her to Harvey. He’s the calmest of the little ones. They are doing just fine so far.

 

So far all is well!

 

Although, I’m not sure Kiana appreciates Harvey hogging the fan.

 

Kiana, Betsy Rose, and Harvey are all happy. Betsy Rose will help teach Kiana to be a horse while Kiana can have Harvey to explore and pal with around the barn. She’s not strong enough to want to play yet. And Harvey needed and deserved his… play time – that’s why I turned him back out with the boys. Kiana is learning that Betsy Rose will not go away and, with that, it will bring her some security which she really needs right now. Herd dynamics really amazes me – I enjoy watching them so much. Kiana will meet other friends too at the right times but I chose Harvey for today because is the most calm of all of the little ones – his disposition was right for starts and it really did work out great today.

 

May 23rd

Dr Julia is here to run an IV cocktail of vitamins, etc. to Kiana. She is not feeling well and her temperature has been slowly dropping. Babies can crash so fast. I’m sure she will be fine but please keep her in your prayers.

 

I need to make this update short – it’s been a long day. Thank all of you for keeping Kiana in your prayers. She’s better tonight. The fluids/cocktail she got today really helped. Someone had asked about her IGG – it was good (900+). T…here are some concerns from her initial blood work – some highs and lows. We’ll repeat the blood work next week – sooner if needed. Babies can crash pretty fast but we’re on it. She’s got a couple of nasty bite marks and swellings that need to heal. But I think she finally understands she is safe – she’ll never know hunger or feel worry of the unknown again. Her eyes are brighter tonight. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

The extremely high temps today didn’t help any of us. The ceiling fans in all 4 stalls that we use daily are all broken and need to be replaced – over a couple week period some blades literally broke and flew off the fans but fortunately horses were not in the stalls when it happened. And it’s hot – very hot. So, that will be an upcoming project. We do have fans on the stall doors though and 2 Port-A-Coolers that are awesome. We hope to get 2 more coolers – one for each stall.

We’re having another big day here tomorrow so we’re going to be lights out soon. Have a good night everyone!

 

May 24th

Kiana came from a very bad situation. Her momma gave the filly her all – until she had no more to give – and then she died. It’s very sad. The latest foal to join Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue, …this little girl is going to make it – she will.

 

©2014, Gregory R Ambrose, based on a photo provided.

The morning meeters and greeters! LOL I usually find them laying at the bottom of the porch stairs. It’s going to be a very busy day here and it’s already horribly hot. Kiana had a calm night, thankfully. She slept so soundly, she needed it.

A little angel….

 

The vet was called this morning as Kiana simply was not feeling well. She is very weak and she easily gets dehydrated. She now has a permanent catheter so we will be running her fluids throughout the day and night. The vet ran additional bloodwork which will determine whether Kiana will also require plasma.

 

Quick update – Kiana’s blood work indicated her WBC had increased. She received plasma and is now on antibiotics. She has a pretty ugly bite wound on her left side (and a couple small ones on her neck) from another mare she tried to nurse… on before coming here. We’re trying to keep it clean and we are treating it – infection is the last thing she needs. She wanted to go out with Betsy Rose for a bit so she did. Then she drank a good amount of milk and is now napping. We have had foals in worse condition than this that are living very happy lives but each and everyone is different, as are their experiences before coming to us. Kiana’s eyes are brighter than I’ve ever seen them. I’m staying positive – we do have a very good professional team to help us get through this. I’ll update again later – lots to do. Thanks everyone – we do appreciate the good thoughts and prayers very much.

 

The temps are a bit kinder now.

 

“Baby Kiana is doing better tonight – she’s got quite the appetite! She’s been through some tough times and this morning she wasn’t feeling so very good. But she’s a brave little girl and was good for the doctor. Mommy Theresa says she m…ust be feeling better because she squirmed a bit when she had to take her medicine tonight. Kiana is tucked in but doesn’t want to go to sleep – I’m going to tell her a few stories and I bet she’s out like a light! She stayed outside with me most of the afternoon. We had SO many visitors today – it was amazing! I hope all of those wonderful humans come back again soon! Have a good night everyone! And no worries – I have Kiana right next door to me and she knows it. She peeks at me and talks to me through the slits in the wall.”

 

May 25th

It’s a scorcher already. Kiana had her meds and milk and is now napping. It was a long night for us humans.

 

We hope everyone had a great day. I intended on putting out a detailed update tonight but I’m beat. Kiana had a pretty good day today. The heat was not kind to any of us. We had a good rain storm which, IMO, made it worse due to the humidity. We have volunteers tomorrow morning so I hope to be able to make time to work in the office for a bit. Have a good night everyone!

 

May 26th, Memorial Day

Our daughter, Katie, was home all weekend which was really nice. We missed our son, Joshua, though.

CaryLou still thinks he’s “all that” and he is! LOL

What do the boys like to do after getting breakfast? Oh how I wish I could curl up with them! Sleep is good!!!

Sylvie visits with Magic at the end of the day.

Wishing everyone a safe Memorial Day!

 

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.

 

Sunday, April 27th

Wally is not feeling well this morning. Kathy Breakall held him so I could clip him in the tack room where it’s cool. We just finished. We will be keeping him in a stall today with a fan and will be closely monitoring him. If he gets worse, I need to call the vet back.

I wished and prayed with all my might that he would feel better.

Waiting on the vet. Wally is resting. Please say prayers for him. I’m sitting right here with him.

The vet examined and oiled Wally. Now we wait and pray for poop. Grandma Bea and Auntie Ruth are babysitting Wally for a little while.

Wally is on his way to the hospital with likely an impaction colic. He will be at Peterson & Smith Equine Hospital in Ocala. He’s just a year old. Please pray for him.

Wally is being treated for an impaction colic. They are starting iv fluids. I’ll update in the morning. Thank you all for your prayers.

Monday, April 28th

Wally’s heart rate is climbing and despite oiling and fluids, he does not appear any better. No worse, except for the HR which is not a good thing. We were presented with two options – to continue to medically treat Wally or surgically remove the impaction since it does not appear to be moving. Wally’s blood work is fine and he does not appear to be uncomfortable. The vet can schedule surgery for later today, but up until that time, we decided that fluids continue to be run. I did some T-Touch Wally’s anal area and by doing so, he did pass a small amount of poop as well as gas. Last night at the rescue, I also used T-Touch with no results. I’m hand walking Wally too which will hopefully, get ‘things moving.’ I have also requested that Wally be given an enema. We are trying everything possible, up until the moment of surgery, in hope that Wally’s issue can and will resolve on its own. Please continue to keep little Wally in your prayers.

By late afternoon, it was decided that Wally needed surgery. I kissed his little nose and promised him I’d be there when he woke up. Dr. Lynch said it wouldn’t take much more than an hour.

Despite all of our prayers we lost Wally this afternoon.  I try to always be there for any surgery.  As I watched them start to prepare Wally, when he was given anesthesia, he had an adverse reaction and he was gone.  In the blink of an eye our Wally went to Rainbow Bridge.  I had promised him I’d be there when he woke up but he didn’t wake up.  I’m in shock.

I had taken Wally for a walk before surgery – he wanted to play in the water hose. Silly Wally, he loved the water. Our three boys – Wally, CaryLou, and Harvey. It will never be the same and I will always see him when I see the others. And I know I will feel him – I feel him now. I’m so sorry little guy – so very sorry. Fly with angel wings baby – I love you, always. I know you were met by Solace and others that we dearly love, that’s the only consolation I have.

Thank all of you for your support and for caring about our little Wally.  My heart hurts – I can’t believe it happened but I was there and saw it with my own eyes. I never want to experience anything like that again, ever.  I was helpless to change what I was witnessing and it was horrible.  I likely will be off the grid for a day or so but please know that I do appreciate all of you. I have to believe that God needed Wally more than we did.

Wally and me right before surgery. I called him my little Rogue Warrior – a lovable and mischievous little guy that made us laugh.

Thank you Greg, for your beautiful tribute to our beloved Wally.

A rainbow over Beauty’s Haven in honor of Wally going to Rainbow Bridge.

Thank you all for your prayers and words of comfort.

Sincerely,
Theresa

Thursday, April 17th, 2014

Cookie was admitted to UF today, April 17th, for an eye exam and, specifically, for evaluation of a mass on her left lower eyelid which had been treated with cryotherapy and cisplatin beads in the past few months with no resolution. During the exam, tumors were also found on her 3rd eyelids (r/l). It was recommended a scan be done to determine the extension of the tumors and to help make surgical decisions.

Marie helped me get Cookie ready for her trip to the UF Veterinary hospital this morning.

I’m so sorry that Cookie is fighting SCC. I wish there were some way they could save her eye. The SCC is below it but because they will have to remove the lower lid there will be nothing to protect the eye. We’ve had blind horses as well as horses with only one eye. Some horses don’t adjust well but I think Cookie will do just fine. I want the SCC gone. Totally. Please keep her in your prayers.

I will be away from the computer and phone for the rest of the day but I will update later about Cookie. Thanks Pam for transporting Cookie safely to the hospital!

Friday, April 18th

Cookie’s CT scan showed the mass had not invaded bony orbit. It was recommended by Dr. Mangan that resection of the lower lid mass and 3rd eyelids be followed by reconstruction of the lid margin (preserving the globe) which would preserve sight in her left eye!

Surgery under way.  Dr. Mangan and his team are amazing!

Finally! About 2/3rds of the lower left eyelid, the left 3rd eyelid, and the entire right 3rd eyelid were removed. Cryotherapy was also used on the remaining left lid margins in hopes of preventing potential further spread of the cancer. Cookie’s sub-mandibular lymph nodes were somewhat enlarged so cells were taken and sent to be analyzed.

Cookie has left the OR.

Cookie did well for surgery – the area of the left eyelid resected was pretty extensive but, with reconstruction, she was able to keep her eye! To do this, they used skin from below her left eyelid to make a new lower eyelid margin. It was pretty amazing to watch and it took a quite a bit of time – the surgeons (Dr. Mangan and Dr. Martins) and the surgery team did a great job. They wanted Cookie to remain at the hospital for a few days – there were some concerns about swelling but, so far, it hasn’t been as bad as was expected. Now, we pray for an uneventful recovery – the sutures need to hold until they are scheduled to be removed in about 2 weeks. Cookie is eating and drinking and was happy to be visited by Katherine today. Katherine is a volunteer and student at UF.

Wow. We are all missing our Cookie. The barn just isn’t the same.

Monday, April 21st

Cookie settled back into her stall this afternoon just fine. It’s great to have her home.  I have to change her bandage tomorrow and Thursday she goes back to UF.

She’s not very comfortable having just one eye to see out of – I’m so glad they were able to save both eyes.

Tuesday, April 22nd

Cookie’s first day back at the rescue after having surgery to remove cancer from her eyes.

I said a prayer when starting to unwrap Cookie’s face this morning – I needed to clean/treat the wounds. The tape is so darn sticky.

Well, the tape came off pretty good. Cookie was a champ about it. I truly believe that horses know when you are helping them.

I cleaned up both eyes and treated them with triple antibiotic. Then applied SSD cream to the sutures and granulation tissue.

I applied a sterile bandage and then vet wrap.

Then the eye with the protective eye cup and voila! Please continue to keep Cookie in your prayers. She’s got a lot of healing to do.  Many thanks to everyone that have been praying for Cookie and to those that have donated to help with her needs.

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.