, ,

Our Beloved Wally Has Crossed Rainbow Bridge

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

/by
, , , ,

Missing Solace, Another to Rainbow Bridge, Oscar, and More

February 23rd – 25th, 2014

February 23rd, 2014

I’m about to go read comments about Solace – I’ve been putting it off. My heart is still very heavy from losing him – it just isn’t the same. I find myself still looking out into the paddock to see how he’s feeling – but he’s not there.

I hoped to somewhat regroup yesterday but then a call came in – a mare had been down for 3 days – can we help? Of course, I couldn’t say no. I’m not going to get into details but we were, sadly, called too late to try to help this mare. When we got there, I took her vitals and they were not good. Her gum color was not good. She’d dug a 10″ ditch with her front legs. She didn’t respond to any sensation in her back end.

It took awhile to find a vet to respond but he determined that the mare had gone toxic and advised that the most humane thing to do was to help the mare cross. Losing Solace on Friday was still very fresh in my mind and in my heart, and, while I only knew this mare for a couple of hours yesterday, it didn’t matter – I loved her just the same and letting her go was hard. Losing any hurts – it NEVER gets easier. But, as with Solace, there is comfort in knowing that she runs with the Heavenly herd now – she knows no more pain.

Oscar no longer needs assistance to get up! He’s mobile and doing well.

Romeo is doing well also. He’s far from out of the woods but we’re staying positive and he’s brighter each day. He loves to talk!

Wanda and her son, Caleb, did a GREAT job clipping little Harvey today! Thank you both – very much!!!

Harvey looked like a little lamb! He’s going to feel much better!

Last photo for today to end my posts on a good note – Serenity is feeling better. It’s been tough getting through the sand and parasite issues but we’re working on it. She’s a sweet girl.

Februay 24th, 2014

Betsy Rose’s court case is over – the previous owner got probation, has to pay fees/fines, and can’t own large animals for a year. I wish I could change what happened to Betsy Rose before she found her way here, but I can’t. She’s a determined little mare with a huge love for life that has touched the hearts of many – it’s truly a blessing to be part of her life. There are many things Betsy Rose wants to help us with like raising awareness of what to do if you see or suspect abuse/neglect, where to reach out for help, and so much more. She wants to help educate humans about the responsibilities of owning and caring for a horse – it’s not inexpensive and proper care does take time.

February 25th, 2014

Lindsey and Ginny gave Bryce a good bath today – the weather was just beautiful! He’s putting on weight nicely, finally. Ginny’s husband, Mark, fixed fences. Bob made 2 trips to get hay and will make another trip tomorrow! Marie took some office work home with her to accomplish. I thank God for our volunteers and supporters daily – sometimes many times!

Bryce is doing better. He had a huge amount of sand in his gut. He had a high parasite load too.

Look how great Harvey looks! I kept telling people he wasn’t fat – he was just fluffy! LOL

Oscar and Vermont Teddy Bear

IT’S COMING!!!

/by
, ,

Solace – Not Good News

02/20/14

I was praying I would have good news about Solace but I don’t.  He made a remarkable recovery from death’s door after arriving here in December 2012.  He grew strong, put on 250+ lbs, and he was happy and doing well but a few months ago that changed.  All sorts of tests were run, x-rays, ultrasounds, more tests were accomplished, we tried various treatments – we have a great professional care team.  But he has continued to get worse and, despite all of our efforts, over the past several weeks, he has grown tired and more uncomfortable.  Our care team believes that he likely has cancer.  We love him enough to let go to Rainbow Bridge.  This has not been a quick or easy decision – it’s been a very heartbreaking one.

Solace is grateful for his time with us, for the love he’s been showered with, and for the fact that he was able to grow strong and stand tall and proud gain.  I know that he will be grateful for the release we are giving him – he will know no more pain.  Death is a part of life.  We are born in this world with no option but to face death at some point.  And I believe that death isn’t the end – it’s another birth in a much better place where hunger, pain, and sorrow do not exist.

We ask that everyone think of Solace tomorrow at 1 pm when our elderly but proud stallion will go to Rainbow Bridge where he will become a young steed again.  He won’t be alone – I’ll be right there with him until well after he leaves this earth.

Tomorrow will be very difficult so please understand if I’m absent for a couple of days.  Thank you.

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

/by
, , , , , ,

Hooficures, Dental, Studs to Geldings, Rainbow Bridge: January 10th – 15th 2014

January 10th, 2014

Maltilda’s Special Day

Dr. Julia Simonson worked on Matilda, an older Mammoth Mule, today. Matilda LOVED every minute of it! Matilda got chiropractic, acupuncture, electrical stimulation, and massage today.

After her session was finished, she did not want to move – she was so relaxed and looked so peaceful.

Dr. Julia and I were sitting on the bench at the front of the barn, talking, when Matilda finally did move. She turned around and looked as us and made the cutest little face as if to say “Thank you!”

January 11th

Dr. Julia checking Pistol today with help from Katherine and Elizabeth. He’s doing great. Yes, it took three people. LOL! He lives up to his name!

Bronson was gelded today and was a good patient.  Katherine and Elizabeth assisted Dr. Julia. Katherine wants to be a vet – she truly appreciates all the hands on experience she gets here. Experiences are so valuable, IMO. It’s an honor to have students like Katherine participate and volunteer! Elizabeth and her daughter, Bri, came out to meet CJ and helped out, too, while they were here. Paul and Roxy stayed busy with many other things that needed to be done. Thanks to everyone!

CJ has a home! Elizabeth and Bri spent some time grooming and handling him and they all just clicked! CJ is usually shy of new faces. But not today! He totally enjoyed the time they spent with him. He will be a pasture pal to one other horse they have. A pretty pasture ornament to love on and watch. I’m very happy for him!

January 12th

I lost my cell phone yesterday, but thankfully, found it today. I cannot believe that it survived the storms!

Solace and Barbara today.

January 13th

Betsy Rose getting her hooficure.

Pistol is recovering nicely from his castration.

It was a busy day today and, unfortunately, I’m not feeling well – sore throat, congestion, earache, etc. I’m headed to bed very soon. Tomorrow is another busy day. Dr. Julia will be back to examine Solace and to review his blood work results. Bronson and Pistol are doing very well. Betsy Rose is moving better. Dr. Julia worked on her last week, she got a hooficure today, and tomorrow, Dr. Bess Darrow of Tune Ups Veterinary Equine Dentistry and Services will be here to check her and Solace and to do some others. Just wanted to say good night to everyone – I wish you all sweet dreams. We’ll have a new fundraiser starting tomorrow – we need help with these vet, farrier, and dental expenses.

January 15th

My day started out by spending some time with this grand old 34 year old mare – brushing her, giving her treats and hay, just talking to her. She was crippled and was no longer able to get around – she was tired. Dr. Tenant examined her yesterday and it was decided that the kindest, most humane and loving thing to do for the mare was to help her cross Rainbow Bridge. I stayed with her for awhile after she crossed. I bet there were many stories she could have shared. Run pain free, Chancey!

Dr. Bess Darrow of Tune Ups Veterinary Equine Dentistry and Services worked on a few of the horses yesterday. This is Santana. He was a good boy – he’s good about everything.

CaryLou, Harvey, Bronson, and Wally after getting full tummies.

Aaleyah Belle got her teeth done too. She was on the list the last time Dr. Bess came but she didn’t want to behave. She was good yesterday though. It’s hard to believe she’s 5 years old now. Here is a link to her diary – we picked up Aaleyah and her Mom on the day she was born – the very day that Eight Belles died. I named her IHO of Eight Belles. Aaleyah and her mom, Momma Sue, were going to be shot because Aaleyah had been born with a wry nose. https://bhfer.org/oldSite/old/aaleyah_diary1.htm

Magnum was a good boy for Dr. Bess too. He’s a bit older than we thought. He’s a little shy with new people. I was very happy that Lindsey was able to come and help Dr. Bess yesterday. Thanks Lindsey!

Have a wonderful Thursday, 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

/by
, , ,

Eilian – Such A Tragedy – Update 09/19/13

09/19/15 Update

I received a call concerning a horse on Wednesday night – it was in a remote part of the county and too late for me to go alone. I called the County and they said they would have a Deputy check it out. I didn’t hear anything back from them. This morning I woke up thinking about the horse and felt it was likely nobody went out so off I went. I got to the address and couldn’t get in the gate which was a good distance from the house. There were dogs and no humans in sight. None of the phone numbers for that address worked. I heard a horse whinny but couldn’t see it. I won’t go into the details of how I finally got in, but I did – it was very frustrating. And I’ll tell you, that what I saw once I got on the property and behind the house was sickening. But I had to focus on the immediate needs of the horse.

The owner called the horse Scant. When I got to him, he was down eating sand – he had been down for a couple of days. He tried to go sternum (he demonstrated signs of colic) and I found three good size limbs under him – it had to have been uncomfortable. I pulled the limbs out and put hay under and around him. I rubbed him and promised him help was on the way. His water bucket was out of reach so I got another bucket and offered him water. He drank and was very thankful. It hurt my heart, very much to see him in his condition. I talked to him about life in general and how beautiful he was while waiting for the vet to arrive. As I looked around me there were scattered bones. And there were tree stumps the horse could have easily impaled himself on in his obvious struggles to get up – one very close to him. I turned a bucket over to cover it.

Dr. Ryan got there and ran fluids – he did everything possible – we tried but it just wasn’t meant to be. His back right leg would not work – there was likely a fracture and there was a good size open stifle injury from a couple of weeks ago. He was very thin (BS 1.5) and very uncomfortable. He was at least 20 years young, his heart rate was high (even after meds) and he likely had quite a bit of sand in him. It’s hard to lose any horse – he was a beautiful Arabian gelding. We all know Arabians are near and dear to my heart. He’s now running, pain free, on the other side of Rainbow Bridge. God bless him.

When he crossed, he wasn’t alone. I assured him it would be ok and that where he was going would be a beautiful place with green grass, fresh water, and there would be only good things and love. And I sat with him for several minutes after and the tears came. I just want to understand – how could humans allow this to happen?

A skull and other bones were scattered on the ground. Proof that other life has been lost. Now I ask for prayers for the other animals there.

Wednesday evening update: I did follow up with the authorities and there is an open investigation. The owner has 30 days to rehome the animals or make conditions better and demonstrate that he is providing proper care for them. There was at least one dog, a pony, several cows, pigs, ducks and other birds. Only 3 of the cows I saw were on grass and they looked fairly good. Everything else lived on sand and didn’t look very well. The owner knows he can reach out to us for help and to help rehome any of the animals.

I am calling the Arabian gelding “Eilian”. Scant was a horrible name, IMO. My heart is as heavy as it was yesterday. The only comfort I can find is knowing he is now in a better place running with the Heavenly herd.

Thank you all for caring.

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

/by
, ,

Pebbles Went to Rainbow Bridge

September 9th – 10th, 2013

It’s with a heavy heart that I share that Pebbles has crossed Rainbow Bridge. Pebbles was a mini mare that we took in 2+ years ago, in June 2011 – she had been attacked by her owner’s dog. Skinny, untreated puncture (bite) wounds, and just plain neglected…. She went to live with a wonderful human family not far from us after her rehab. I’m so glad she had her own family these last couple of years. Her best friend was Weegie and I’m sure he misses her a lot. We love you Pebbles – always!

The first picture was taken when she first arrived at the rescue.

This is Pebbles with Weegie.

Our little Betsy Rose is feeling better! “Mommy Theresa it really is time for more treats!”

I’d like to ask everyone to say a prayer for Bouie. He is having a bout with laminitis. We caught it early – he has foundered in the past.

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

/by
, , , ,

One Made It, One Went to Rainbow Bridge

August 23rd, 2013

Last Evening

I need some help here. I can’t go into details as this case is still unfolding. But would anyone be willing to pledge to help this horse? He’s down and can’t get up – another Betsy Rose. The same vet who treated Betsy Rose initially is available. It’s been raining – the horse needs a vet to get treated or he needs to be humanely euthanized – this is horrific. Another vet determined a couple of days ago that the horse did not need to be seized. I am sick. Pledges anyone? This can’t wait until tomorrow.

This Morning

Our response team is on the way. The horse did ok through the night. The vet and authorities will be there too. We need angels of strength to help him up to get into the trailer. Dr. Natalie says he wants to. His vitals are not bad.

Please pray and picture him up and standing. This was him several days ago. Pray he can stand now in order to get in the trailer and make it here to the rescue.

Dr. Natalie just relayed to me that she will call me in a few minutes. I think we are moving to Plan B – loading him by stretcher – the trailer has a ramp on it. Will update soon.

Later in the Morning

I am sitting here in tears. Tears of anger, sorrow, and frustration. I’m sorry it took so long for a good update but a lot has been going on. Chance took a turn for the worse. After another rectal, observation, treatment, etc. Dr. Natalie believes he’s gone septic. He grew uncomfortable and is now showing signs of pain. He has a toxic line, his heart rate rose dramatically. He has given it a good fight. The decision has been made to help him to humanely cross Rainbow Bridge. He will not be alone. I have no more words at this time. But know that this isn’t over. Thank you all. Chance – we all love you.

Noonish

We couldn’t leave Chance’s friend behind. But it wasn’t easy getting him released – it’s still an open case with the authorities, thankfully.

This Afternoon

“Welcome to our Beauty’s Haven family – we love you already. I’m so sorry you had to watch your friend slowly starve to death but at least today you were able to see him be loved on by humans that care. And you were able to see that he peacefully crossed Rainbow Bridge. He is now running with the Heavenly Herd in green grass with a whole body again. In this picture I see you are standing there with Chance on the ground nearby – we will make sure he is properly buried. He knows you cared about him and he left knowing you would be going to a good place where you will never experience this again. You’ll be here soon and the QT paddock is all yours. You’ll have hay and all the love you ever could imagine. He would want you to go on and have a good life. Chance will never be forgotten. And I promise you, there will be voices heard about what happened to you both.

Feeling better now that this boy is here and munching on hay under the shelter in the QT paddock. We will figure out a new name for him as we get to know him. I like to learn their personality and we don’t like to use a name that we’ve already used in the past. The weather is horrible but he seems pretty content. He’s very sweet and I’m so glad we didn’t have to leave him behind. Everyone involved in helping last night and today did an awesome job! THANK YOU EVERYONE!

He needs a little rehab but he’s only about 10 years old – he should do just fine. He is a Saddlebred/Arabian cross (National Show Horse) and is really sweet.

Some rain rot, underweight, feet haven’t been done in awhile, not sure about his teeth yet but we’ll get him all checked out. I’m very relieved he is here. And I am very sorry that we couldn’t offer Chance the same.

As Chance crossed Rainbow Bridge this morning, butterflies surrounded him together with people who knew him for only a few short hours, yet cared deeply about him. A sure sign that it was meant to be and that he was finally at peace.

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.tb

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/by
, , ,

Alyse to Rainbow Bridge, Sunset and TB Mare Arrive, and More

Update: 12/30/12

Last week was tough and losing Alyse was heartbreaking.  On Friday morning I received a call from Dr. Clark – Alyse had taken a turn for the worse.  Her HR went higher – to about 120 and her WBC had gone up.  The meds were not keeping her comfortable.  Dr. Clark had spent days running tests and consulting with others about the ulcerations and other issues – they could not determine what was causing her to be sick but they did feel it was a combination of things.  One being the blisters in her mouth, on her tongue, and in her nose.  They had scoped her earlier in the week and did not see any blisters past the esophagus and believed they likely stopped there (we later learned there was a large ulcer in her colon).  The second issue being an unknown factor at the time that was causing increased HR and temperature.  We agreed from the beginning that should it get to the point where Alyse couldn’t be kept comfortable while trying to maintain her for the blisters to heal, and trying to identify and treat a secondary issue, we would not allow her to suffer.  A necropsy was done and we found that she did have a large ulceration in her colon and her gut was about to rupture – keeping her with us any longer would have been inhumane.  We gave her all the time we could and I am so thankful to the Dr. Clark and everyone at Peterson and Smith for everything they did for her.

I was with Alyse when she crossed – her head across my knees in my lap – she knows she was loved.  Dr. Clark said Alyse was a strong willed mare and had given it her best.  And her care givers had done their best.  Alyse was a beautiful and proud Arabian mare that was loved by many but God needed her more than we did and we must accept that.

Alyce in the Hospital

Letting them go takes a lot out of me – out of all of us here that are hands on at the rescue.  And I’m sure it hurts others that love and care for the horses here from a distance too – the horses are truly blessed to have so many that care for them.  I am so very sorry we could not save Alyse.  Alyse and I had shared many spontaneous rides together which I’ll never forget.  Those rides helped me put worries aside for a few minutes – they were very refreshing for the mind and body. After I left the hospital Friday I found I needed to stop in a parking lot and let the tears flow and try to regroup.  Then I went to Burger King drive through to get a drink.  I had left home without breakfast or anything to drink after Dr. Clark called to tell me Alyse was worse – I wanted to get to the hospital ASAP.  After getting a soda I stopped by the feed store to buy a few things.  While at the feed store I decided that while on my way back to the rescue I’d go by the location where the 3 Thoroughbred horses were that we had taken hay to last Wednesday night.  I tried to go there on Thursday but on my way there that evening I got a phone call that one of the horses here looked to be trying to colic so I turned around and came back.  By the time I checked on the horse it was dark and I didn’t want to go the location of the 3 horses by myself.  So, after leaving the feed store on Friday, I did go there and I found one bay mare down and looking at her tummy.  She went sternum and stretched out – she looked very uncomfortable.  I tried to get her up and she did get up with some prompting but then she went down again.  I called Dr. Ryan and he suggested we get her to the rescue since he would be on his way there as soon as he could to assess the incoming Percheron mare.  I called Bob and had him hook up the trailer and come meet me to load the mare and we went back to the rescue.  

The Percheron mare arrived shortly after we got the sick OTTB mare to the rescue.  Dr. Ryan arrived and examined both mares.  We named the OTTB mare PrimaBelle and she was treated for a gas colic.  She is Momma Sue’s daughter – she was born a year before Aaleyah Belle.  Prima means first and Belle means beautiful = “born first and beautiful”.  PrimaBelle was born a year before Aaleyah Belle and they are full sisters. Aaleyah Belle’s name means “beautiful gift from God”.  Like her momma and sister, PrimaBelle is a very nice girl with a pleasant disposition.  She raced and won about $12,000.  She had a very gassy tummy on Friday which made her very uncomfortable. She felt better after receiving medications and has been feeling ok since.  We had a family come to meet PrimaBelle today – a family that has adopted Mia from us this past year that lives not far from the rescue.  PrimaBelle still needs to get her teeth done, vaccinations need to be done, etc.  She will be up to date on everything and she needs to put some weight on before leaving for a new home.  There are still 2 horses where we picked her up from that we are providing hay for that need homes.

I named the 25 year old Percheron mare “Sunset”.  She arrived during a beautiful sunset and it came to mind that she is in her sunset years.  She’ll be able to live them without worry and with a full tummy and much deserved TLC.  She is underweight and has skin issues.  She has large lumps in her left ear described by Dr. Ryan as “cauliflower ears” likely caused from trauma which causes fluid to collect and separates cartilage causing it to die which causes fibrous tissue.  She has the number “33” branded on her left hip – the number of her stall from her PMU years.  She is a smaller Percheron – not quite as tall as Gentleman.  It will be a few weeks before she is ready to leave here but we are expecting an adoption application for her to be received by tomorrow.  If approved, Sunset will have a home not far from the rescue.  Before she leaves, her wounds will have healed, she will have had her dental work done, she will be up to date on vaccines, etc.  It will take awhile to get to that point but her road to a happy and healthy retirement has begun.  She has the sweetest face and very kind eyes.  Her ears don’t stand up but that’s ok – she is still beautiful!

Yesterday both mares had hooficures.  PrimaBelle was a good girl.  This was her front right before her hooficure.  We had Dr. Ryan x-ray it on Friday to make sure her coffin bone wasn’t affected and it wasn’t, thankfully.  Sunset was a little challenging – she didn’t want to stand still but she’s in a new place with new faces.

It was going to go into the 20’s last night so we blanketed both mares.  PrimaBelle was an angel for her blanket to be put on – she stood perfectly still and seemed to truly adore it. Sunset was a little hesitant – I don’t think she’d likely ever had one.  She moved away at first but with a little time and introduction she stood still.  And after it was on she still there for quite awhile – at least 30 minutes!  The blanket is short on her sides and left about 6” of her butt exposed but she loves it.  I am ordering one to fit her tomorrow.  She will also be getting a new fly mask.

Solace is about the same – he still has congestion in his lungs and is still coughing.  Dr. Ryan examined him again on Friday.  He will be out again late in the week to assess him again and to see if we need to modify his treatment plan.  HIs appetite remains good.  Solace really is an amazing horse.  Let’s continue to pray that he recovers.  Believe…

Holly is doing very well – what a sweet mare she is!

The Christmas trio are all doing well.  Gentleman and some others had their teeth done last week.  I’ll include those pictures in my next update – I’m really tired and have much to do.  To everyone that has sent a message or email regarding the loss of Alyse – thank you.  I appreciate your good thoughts and prayers.  I am behind on emails and PM’s but hope to get caught up on some this coming week.  

Tomorrow will be very busy – more hooficures are being done in the morning.  God bless and thank you all for your continued support.

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

/by
, ,

Thoughts of Ambrosia

I spent a good part of yesterday reading, through teary eyes, the very thoughtful and much appreciated emails and posts about Ambrosia – and the artwork is lovely.

First, let me say she is, and always will be, quite the mare – she had a heart of gold. Even though humans let her down tremendously by ignoring even her basic needs and by turning her loose to wander a rural community as a homeless horse – she didn’t hold it against us. This was Barbara comforting Ambrosia the night we met her.

The next day when we picked her up and took her to the rescue she walked off the trailer, looked around, and held her head up high – for the first time we saw light and life in her eyes. She was immediately started on antibiotics. She settled into her stall and went to eating her hay and Fibre-Beet mash – she loved food! She got groomed at least a ½ a dozen times a day and was pampered to the max. The day we loaded her up to go the hospital she loaded without hesitation. Once there, it took her all of about a minute to settle in before she started eating her hay.

After her initial assessment at the hospital, we discussed her diagnosis – pleuropneumonia (infection of the lungs and pleural space). Her care team determined that to get a good indication of whether or not there was a chance for her to recover they would need to drain her chest and see how quickly it would refill. This procedure (drained about 7 gallons of fluid) gave her quite a bit of relief. Her breathing was better – she stayed upbeat. She trusted humans to do to her what was needed – I truly believe she knew we were trying to help her. She cooperated – always. Her temperature was normal and her heart rate went significantly down – she continued to have a good appetite. She was only 13 years old.

Through every step of the way we evaluated her quality of life – it was constant throughout our decision making process. It was identified early on what aftercare would be needed and we were committed. While we knew from the start she likely would never be horse to be ridden we did think she would be happy being a pasture pal. And we agreed, from the beginning, that should her comfort level not be able to be controlled, or should she develop another issue such as laminitis, and her quality of life was poor with no relief in sight, we would help her to cross. We would not let her suffer. One of the key tools in determining her quality of life was by observing her will to live which was enormous. She had a great appetite and didn’t appear depressed. She would hold her head up high and was interested in what was going on around her – she would even whinny to Billy the goat or a passersby.

I spoke with the doctor on Thursday night – he recommended giving her some time to recover from the first surgery before going through the second. Friday morning the doctor called and said overnight Ambrosia’s temperature had risen as did her heart rate but she was quite the Champion – she was still eating and drinking fine. She did have increased swelling in her legs. The doctor decided to ultrasound her heart and said he had some concerns and said that he wanted the cardio team to conduct an ultrasound. While we waited for them we took Ambrosia out to graze for a bit, which she really enjoyed.

We went back to her stall and she became interested in a very handsome horse that was being evaluated.

Once he was left she seemed tired – her breathing had been getting more labored and she began to sweat. I played songs for her on my cell phone – she seemed to really like “Lost in Love” by Air Supply. I guess I did too – we must have listened to it about 4 times. I told her about the many people that loved her and were helping her. I apologized for what humans had, or hadn’t done, for her. And I prayed.

The cardio team arrived and did another ultrasound. The cardiologist determined that Ambrosia had developed congestive heart failure. Her heart had been working overtime to compensate for the decrease of lung function. The right side of her heart was weak. We once again reviewed her quality of life and determined that, while we could prolong her life it was not in her best interest, the time had come to let her go. This is never an easy decision or one taken lightly – but we loved her enough to do what was in her best interest.

Ambrosia had several days of a full tummy and clean fresh water, she had been kept comfortable, she was doted on constantly, light in her eyes had returned, and she was genuinely interested in humans and what was going on around her. She had regained her dignity and was loved by so many and that’s important – she crossed Rainbow Bridge knowing she mattered.

I want to believe that at some point in her life she was loved and properly cared for. We will never know but we were able to prevent her from dying alone, hungry, and in pain. We knew going into this that she could take a turn for the worse at any time and we may have to let her go. God had other plans for her and we accept that. I held on to her and told her she was so very loved and I hummed “Lost in Love” as she crossed the Bridge. I could picture her holding her head up high towards the sky and running, reaching for the stars, as her body grew whole and strong again – what a glorious vision it was! I sat by her and held her and let the tears flow.

Before returning to the rescue I sat for a long time in the car in the parking lot at the hospital. I folded my arms across each other and rested my head on them against the steering wheel – as I did I could smell her. I had washed my hands but not my arms and her scent was still on them – a sense acceptance came over me. Acceptance is needed in order to move on. And I know that Ambrosia wants us to continue to help others that end up homeless, hungry, cold, alone, or in a bad situation – and with your continued help we can.

I’m sorry that Ambrosia was dumped in a rural community and had no human to care for, or about, her. I am sorry that we could not fix her health issues. And I am sorry that we could not keep her comfortably with us for a long, long time. But I’m not sorry, not in the least, that we tried. God bless each and every one of you for caring and helping in some way. Ambrosia had a huge love for life. She would have kept going until her heart burst – she was that kind of horse. She was quite the mare and had the heart of a Champion!

I have learned to fight the good fight to the end
And if I had to I would do it all again
And when the sun goes down
I won’t fear the night
I will keep my head towards the sky
Knowing that the Lord is on my side

And when the darkness falls
I won’t fear the night
I will keep my head toward the sky
Knowing that the Lord is on my side

(From the song Heart of a Champion)

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

Ambrosia remembered…
http://iacmusic.com/stationGen.aspx?stationID=7428


Artist: Greg Jones

/by
, , ,

New Star in the Sky Tonight and Orphan Baby Donkey – 05/22/12

05/22/12

It is with a very, very heavy heart that I post this update. Smarty Pants crossed Rainbow Bridge this afternoon. She had been improving, or so we thought. We knew she could take a turn for the worse at any given time. Infection and damage to internal organs had been a concern since day one. While edema in her front legs today had decreased it became significantly worse elsewhere. Dr. Ryan examined her, gave us his prognosis, and ran more blood work to confirm what he suspected and it wasn’t good. Verbatim from Dr. Ryan. “Her body was shutting down – resulting in poor tissue perfusion (blood supply to the muscles). All of this caused tissue necrosis – basically like gangrene. She may have lasted another day or two but it would have been pure hell. No doubt you made the right decision.”

While she surprised us with a short walk on her own in the sling today (with us humans by her) we didn’t know it would be her last. You can see in her eyes she wasn’t feeling well. We would not allow her to suffer – we promised her this from the start.

This little filly that captured so many hearts would have been one year old tomorrow. It just isn’t fair – I don’t know why things like this happen. I don’t understand it. I could go on and on with my thoughts about this but I won’t – at least not at this time. Today has been hell and mentally and emotionally overwhelming. And I’m not feeling the loss alone. My family, including our volunteers, feel it too – we all loved her terribly. We took turns sitting with her and caring for her – even through the nights. We love you Smarty Pants – you mattered to so many but we loved you enough to let you go. We will always love you. Now you fly with angel wings – until we meet again on the other side of The Bridge – know you are in our hearts, always.

And with tears still fresh we welcomed baby donkey. She was very hungry when she arrived and didn’t hesitate taking a bottle. Lacey has been providing some milk and we have milk replacer – the baby will isn’t picky and will drink either source.

Dr. Ryan had a very hard time getting the catheter into her vein in order to run the plasma.

She is currently sleeping – something she needed badly.

She’s had a tough start in life but like Smarty Pants she arrived with light in her eyes that we pray will shine brighter with each passing day. When Pam went to pick her up she found her standing between two pine trees, shaking – we were having a really bad storm. Her mom was off elsewhere. I wonder what this little one thought? But she is here now and she will have a full tummy all night long and she won’t be alone.

And tomorrow is another day. I don’t know what it has in store for us but there is already a void – Smarty Pants had become a part of all of us. We did everything we could to help her and she knows she was loved. She didn’t die in the sand and sun – alone or afraid. She was surrounded by love. While I will never stop believing in miracles and had prayed hard for one with Smarty – I have to think God had other plans for her and we are not to question that but rather accept it. Yes, she would have been one year old tomorrow – a day that won’t come for her on this earth. Each day we had with her was a gift – a blessing. And when I look up to the sky tonight and see a bright shining star I will think of her – I know she knows she is loved. And even though she runs with the heavenly herd she is still with us. She will always be with us. God bless all of you for caring about this little girl – our little Smarty Pants.

Run with the angels sweet girl – we are so very proud of you and how hard you fought for life. You are, and always be, an inspiration to me and your eyes are etched into my heart forever.

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

/by