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She Brought Light & Joy Into My Heart

If you would like to view a video of Beauty in all her glory, please click on the image above.

More than twenty years ago, a neglected and abused Arabian filly brought light and joy into my life at a time when I needed it the most. In 1997, surgery to remove a tumor within my spinal cord caused nerve damage which resulted in my becoming a quadriplegic, and although my doctors stated that I would never again walk, through sheer will, determination, faith and an intense physical therapy program, I regained use of my limbs. I remain today, an incomplete quadriplegic, however, with no feeling or awareness below my neck (proprioception). In time, I thankfully, was able to return to my government job which I truly loved, but sadly, I had to retire on disability in 2000 due to issues associated with my injury. Thus began a very dark period in my life as I learned to adjust to my physical limitations.

I’ve been riding horses since I was a toddler and truly missed them. In 2002, Bob and I decided that our kids should have the opportunity to experience horses, so we scheduled them for weekly riding lessons. I didn’t tell their trainer that I wasn’t supposed to ride and during part of each lesson, I would venture out on trails on an Arabian gelding that took great care of me. I was nervous at first, I hadn’t been on a horse since before my spinal cord injury, but I was determined. It was wonderful!

One day, I got a call about an Arabian filly that was petrified of humans. She had been seized from an abusive situation and placed in a foster home, but then, she couldn’t be caught. I walked into her paddock with no demands or expectations and after a short time, she walked over and put her head down into my chest. I waited. When she lifted her head, I looked into her beautiful brown eyes and saw fear along with a reflection of hope and a longing to trust. I slowly and gently put my hand on her neck and whispered, “I’m here for you, it’s going to be ok.” She became mine that very day and I named her Beauty.

We found a barn to lease and within a few days, Beauty had settled in. Every day, I spent a lot of time with her, just hanging out. We both had much healing to do. My physical challenges never hindered our connection; rather, they strengthened our relationship. Beauty seemed to understand my struggles and offered a unique form of healing. And I understood her struggles in learning to trust. Being mentally and physically abused is not something one can just move forward from without some level of acceptance, a support system and a leap of faith.

When we were both ready, we moved on to groundwork which proved to be invaluable. Because of my physical challenges and not knowing where my legs are, I taught Beauty to respond to voice commands as my arms, hands, and legs could inadvertently send signals that could confuse any horse. She was very intelligent and caught on quickly. We were both very proud of our accomplishments and it wasn’t long before she was under saddle.

Riding Beauty gave me a sense of freedom and independence. I no longer felt confined by physical challenges, but rather empowered by her strength and devotion. Sometimes, we went to local parks to ride, times I’ll never forget. As every horse needs a companion, we took in a blind Appaloosa gelding that was going to be euthanized. His name was Frosty, and not long after he arrived, we decided we wanted to move to the Ocala area and in 2004, our home in Tampa sold overnight, a sign we were making the right decision. We purchased almost 18 acres in Morriston, took in more horses, and, over time, our little farm morphed into Beauty’s Haven where we have helped over 500 horses and other animals.

Beauty was injured in 2011 because of something very foolish that another human had done. It was a very stressful time. She foundered, rotating quite a bit in both front feet. We were told we might be able to keep her comfortable as a pasture pal, but she’d never be sound enough to be ridden again. In the Spring of 2015, when I went out to ride another horse, Beauty came over and gave me that look – I saddled her up and we took a nice walk around the property! It made us both truly happy. Over the years, she would have founder flare ups, but we worked through them. In late 2015, she was diagnosed with Cushing’s disease. In 2018 she was diagnosed with Temporohyoid Osteoarthropathy (THO), and in 2020, Insulin Resistant (IR) / Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). She was a tough and determined mare and her spirit never wavered.

She moved into the barn area as it was very important that we manage her IR which can be quite challenging. Frodo, a mini, that took an indirect lightning strike a few years ago which left him neurologically impaired, became her sidekick. We opened up the birthing stall which enabled Beauty to maneuver better, while Frodo had a stall across from her. Beauty wanted us to think she didn’t care much for Frodo, but the moment he got out of her sight, she’d whinny for him. It went both ways.

On Monday, last week, Beauty didn’t greet me at the gate with her lively morning whinny. She didn’t finish all of her breakfast, which was very odd. Dr. Staples came that day to do some trims and while she was here, she examined Beauty. Beauty didn’t have a temperature, but she did have a lot of gut sounds. She was given Banamine and thankfully, she was better by evening and even ate her meals. However, the next day, Tuesday, she just wasn’t herself, having little desire to eat. I took her temperature and it was 103.1. I called a vet out to examine her once again, and to do bloodwork.

The next morning, Wednesday, the vet called and said bloodwork indicated that she had hyperlipidemia and should go to a hospital. I called EMCO and took her there immediately. Pulling out of the driveway, and all the way down our road, Beauty and Frodo kept calling out for one another which simply, broke my heart.

When we arrived at the hospital, the staff went right to work examining Beauty, performing blood tests etc., as well as an ultrasound, to see if there was a blockage, but there was no clear definition of what was wrong. They put her on an IV drip and got her comfortable in a stall where she laid down to rest. She refused to eat but she did drink water.

The next day, Thursday, more tests were performed and she appeared a bit brighter and her bloodwork had improved. I hung out her with in the morning and Jenny went in the afternoon. Beauty only passed a small amount of manure, but she was nibbling on hay and drinking water. The plan was to give her another day to see if she improved and then regroup.

When we arrived at the hospital on Friday morning (Jenny was with me), we learned Beauty’s bloodwork results were even better. We took her out to a small paddock where she could relax, graze, and walk around. I hugged her, took the lead rope off, and told her she was free to go. Then, she gave me the most beautiful gift – for the first time in two years, she trotted out and did some of her Arabian dance moves and appeared as sound as any horse could be! Jenny said it was the biggest smile she’d seen on me in a long time. Beauty also passed manure a few times which was encouraging. We didn’t let her overdo it and tucked her back into her stall for the evening, but it sure felt good to see her feeling well enough to “dance”. When we left her in her stall, she was munching on hay.

The next morning, Saturday, Beauty was being ultra-sounded again by two veterinarians when we arrived at the hospital. They saw something of concern (tumor, abscess, etc.) but there was no way to know what it was without doing surgery. We talked about options, pros, cons, risks, etc. and really, the only choices we had were to do surgery to remove the tumor or abscess or to euthanize her. We opted for surgery.

We took Beauty for a walk while the staff prepared for surgery. I buried my face into her mane and cried. While looking at video that was taken at that time, I saw that Beauty shed a tear too. When it was time, she walked tall, proud, and steady from her stall to the operating area. I hugged and kissed her and breathed in her smell (she was the best aromatherapy) before she entered the prep room and assured her that we would be there waiting for her. I told her many times what she already knew, that I loved her dearly.

During surgery a large tumor was discovered. It wasn’t attached to any of her organs, but it went from one side of her abdominal cavity to the other. There was simply no way the surgeon could have removed it. Parts of it had gone necrotic – it would have only been a matter of time before Beauty would have gone septic. We went in to be with her and I held her as she went to Rainbow Bridge. I knew the very second that she was gone – my heart skipped a few beats, it was hard to breathe, and the world seemed so very far away.

Life had kind of come full circle – many years ago, surgery to a remove a tumor from inside my spinal cord led me back to horses, which led me to Beauty. And now, a tumor that appeared partially wrapped around her spine has taken her away from me.

Beauty was a once in a lifetime horse and I am beyond blessed to have been given the years that I had with her. The bond we shared transcended words and created a language of love and trust that only we could understand. Her gentle soul, unwavering presence, devotion, and her ability to sense my needs made her truly extraordinary. Together, we embraced challenges with courage and determination – we believed in each other and we never gave up.

While some of Beauty’s ashes will be spread over Beauty’s Haven, some will stay with me forever, but her spirit will forever be beside me. I know she will help guide me as we continue what we started together – helping those that are unable to help themselves. Her legacy will continue to live on in all the horses who enter through our gates seeking a second chance at life, a life that begins, again.

Beauty is gone from this earth and it hurts more than I can say. But as I sat with Frodo one night last week with tears falling, he suddenly perked up and let out a whinny. I could smell Beauty close by as a feeling of peace came over me, and, in my head and heart, I heard a whisper, “I’m here for you, it’s going to be okay.”

Thank you all for your prayers and good thoughts. I appreciate them, very much.

Sincerely,
Theresa

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Only Because of Love

This is a story I share every year at Christmastime – it’s near and dear to my heart. Some know it as, “The Old One” and some as “Because of Love”. Either way, it’s a powerful reminder about why we do what we do. Too many “old ones” are discarded after giving years of love and service to their humans – oftentimes, put out to pasture or “on the back 40” where they eventually wither away to nothing.

In many rescue cases that we’ve worked – where horses needed to be removed from a property and when humans were given the opportunity to go in and take one or more – the younger horses are usually scooped up. They are more quickly rehabilitated and re-homed while old ones are often left behind. My heart would never enable me to do that, they are all deserving.

My first question when I become involved is usually, “Who needs us the most?” regardless of their age.

Our three recent arrivals, Aries, Nicky, and Raz are “old ones”. They are all Thoroughbred mares in their late 20’s. Aries and Raz are full sisters that have always been together and we simply could not separate them – they are very bonded. Nicky, blind and deaf, was in very poor condition and may not have lasted another day. We were not prepared to take in more horses at this time but we couldn’t just turn our heads.

We went on faith and a prayer that support would come that would enable us to help them. With your help, we can accomplish much and make a difference to many.

We’ve been blessed to have had many “Old Ones” pass through our gates. While some are with us now such as Venus, Nadia, Jo, Dancer and others, some that have gone to Rainbow Bridge include Betsy Rose, Little E, Gentleman, Brea, Cricket, Grandma Bones, Nina, Casper, Solace, Matilda, Granny Jewels, Frosty, and many more. Watching the “old ones” and the unconditional love and wisdom that they offer to others in the herd and to humans is an amazing experience that words can’t adequately describe.

If only all humans would take time to open their hearts to see the beauty within these precious souls, then perhaps they would understand why we do what we do – because of love.

Only because of love.

Wishing one and all a Blessed Christmas.

Warmly,
Theresa

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Zoie’s Happy “Tail!”

This little kitten became an orphan at just two weeks old when her mom was hit by a car while carrying her sister across the road during a thunderstorm. A caring human found this very frightened, hungry and flea infested baby huddled nearby and brought her to Beauty’s Haven where she was lovingly cared for. We named her Zoie.

The next day, we took Zoie to the vet for an exam and bloodwork and thankfully, she was just fine. Only a few days later, we received a call from a long time friend and supporter who was looking for a kitten to adopt! It was a match made in Heaven!

I’m happy to report that Zoie is now all settled in her new home and is doing great! She has a big sister (cat) and a human who loves her to pieces.

Zoie’s vetting is all taken care of (vaccines, microchip, spaying, etc.) thanks to our wonderful village of supporters who have helped us help this precious baby girl. Thank you all! And thank you, Lynda, for opening your heart and home to Zoie.

Please enjoy this heartwarming video featuring our precious kitten, Zoie, who never gave up!

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Mo Shahtef’s Prize

This is Mo Shahtef’s Prize – Mo for short! Mo is a 20-year-old registered Arabian recovered from an “adoption gone bad.” It was truly a relief when we learned that Mo was okay and where he was located, thanks to social media, prayers, and good-hearted people willing to do the right thing.

Mo was given or sold to someone by the adopter and then went to a number of other homes. Thankfully, he landed with someone who reached out to us when they learned of the situation. This person has a huge heart and has dedicated her life to helping animals and we’re so very grateful that she and her family opened up their home to Mo when he was in need. And, contrary to the assumptions of some, the person was offered the opportunity to adopt Mo but since she has other horses and animals that she has rescued and wishes to continue to help others, Mo’s departure opened up a space for yet another precious animal in need.

When we reached out for help to find Derek and Mo, many of you took precious time to share our posts, make calls, etc. Your support was a reminder to us that we weren’t alone and that there are still good people in this world. You all set an example for what can happen when people work together to do the right thing. The light from our village of supporters shines brightly and I’m so very proud of each and every one of you! As our village grows, so does the light and as long as we stay in the light, we’ll never be alone. And all of the time we were searching for the boys, Betsy Rose was always in my head and heart reminding me to never give up and to believe.

Mo and Derek both need sponsors as soon as possible to cover vetting, dentals, hooficures, supplements, feed/hay, etc. If you can help with a one time, or recurring monthly donation, there are many ways in which to do so. Donations can be made via our WEBSITE, via PAYPAL, or via PAYPALME. If donating via PayPal, please designate your donation to “Derek/Mo”. If you select the tab, ‘Send Money to Friends or Family,’ no fees will be deducted from your contribution. All donations are tax deductible and no contribution is ever too small. God bless you all and thank you so very much!

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He’s Been Located – It’s Truly a Miracle!

Mo Before Adoption

We are thrilled to announce that through the power of social networking, our beloved Mo has been found and will be returning to Beauty’s Haven!  Our quest to find Mo has been quite daunting to say the least.  As you may know, we have been searching for Mo for many weeks.  Mo is an Arabian gelding who had been adopted out a few years ago along with another one of our Arabian geldings, Derek.  We were blessed to have tracked Derek down to a boarding barn in New Jersey and we arranged to have him returned to us.

We spent countless hours trying to find Mo and that he had been sold by his original adopter to someone in Malabar, FL which was a breach of contract.  At some point in time, Brevard County Animal Control became involved due to him being in very poor condition.  The person to whom the original adopter sold/gave Mo, subsequently, sold/gave him to another person who, in turn, gave Mo to yet someone else in another county!  It was believed that Mo was living on large acreage with other horses in a county north of us and that his caregivers had trouble keeping weight on him – it was thought he has ulcers.  And, based on his teeth, it was thought that he was older than 19 years old.  This age is confirmed on his Arabian Horse Registry papers (born in 2000) which have been in our possession.  Upon learning this, we were concerned that Mo may have special needs similar to those of Little E, a senior Arabian gelding, who will spend the remainder of his days here at the rescue.  Little E must be fed a special diet five times a day while being separated from other horses, in order to maintain his weight.  If Mo had special issues, or suspected health issues that needed attention, we thought it may be in his best interest to return to Beauty’s Haven.  We continued in our search to learn of his specific location.

Thanks to social media the person that Mo had been given to contacted us!  After some discussion, we made arrangements to have Mo returned to us.  The person that was caring for him has a huge heart for helping animals and we’re very grateful to them for opening their home up to Mo when he needed it.  They were offered the opportunity to adopt Mo but they have other horses and animals that they have taken in and want to continue to help others – Mo’s departure opened a space for yet another that may need their help.

There are many victims in this case to include those who unknowingly purchased or took in Mo, not realizing that he belongs to Beauty’s Haven.  Because of the selfish and immoral actions of someone to whom we had entrusted the care of two Arabian geldings (Derek and Mo) through the process of adoption, our time, funds, and donations have been impacted considerably.  The time and energy spent looking for both Derek and Mo should have been dedicated to applying for grants, trying to adopt out horses, helping others in need and raising the necessary funds to care for our beloved little herd.  A substantial amount of money ($1400+) to transport Derek back to the rescue from New Jersey, the fee for his care at the boarding stable, expenses of vetting, including blood work and Coggins, dental and farrier work, and the ongoing cost of his nutritional needs has been truly expensive.  Mo’s expenses will be significant as well.  In addition to the cost of transport, Mo will be vetted upon his return and he will be scheduled for both dental and farrier care as well.

Derek and Mo desperately need monthly sponsors to assist with their intake and ongoing care.  We never like to ask for donations but we must – it’s what a non-profit charity organization has to do in order to survive.  Tax deductible donations make it possible for us maintain care of the horses here and to help others.  Please consider making a one time, or recurring, donation of any amount and know that it will make an incredible difference in the life of each and every member of our remarkable little herd.  If you are not in a position to donate, you can still help by sharing our information with others – perhaps you have friends, family, and/or co-workers who would love to help.

Donations can be made via our website’s Strive for Five Page where you have the option of making your donation ‘In Memory,’ or ‘Honor,’ of someone and you can designate specifically, where you would like to apply your donation.  If you wish to make a donation via snail mail, our address can also be found on the same page.  Please designate your contribution to ‘Derek’ and/or ‘Mo.’  No amount is too small.  As always, thank you all, for your love and support.

Theresa Batchelor
President
Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue, Inc.

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RECOVERED! HE’S BACK!

We all like good news, right? Read on!

We adopted out two registered Arabian geldings (Derek and Mo) a few years ago to the same person. At the end of 2018, someone brought it to our attention that the horses had been taken out of state. When we contacted the adopter, they would not give us the location of the horses. It took quite a bit of time and research, but thankfully, we located Derek. He was found in New Jersey and has since been recovered – he is now back at the rescue!

Now, the bad news. The other gelding, Mo, is still missing. We believe that he is still in Florida and we will share his story tomorrow in hope that someone will recognize him and contact us in regard to his whereabouts.

The above photos of Derek were taken upon his return. He desperately needs sponsors as it has been quite an expensive endeavor to bring him home. In addition, there is the cost of his initial vetting. He did have a hooficure a few days ago and he will be needing dental work as well.

Would anyone like to help Derek with a one time or recurring donation? All donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small. You may forward your contribution via PAYPAL, via the ‘DONATE‘ page on our website or via PAYPAL.ME. If donating via PayPal, please designate your donation to ‘Derek.’ If you select the tab, ‘Send Money to Friends or Family,’ no fees will be deducted from your contribution.

As always, thank you so very much for your love and support.

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Forever in our heart

We lost Betsy Rose a year ago today. I rejoice for the miracle she was and that I was blessed to be part of her life. It would be wonderful to hear from all of you about how you remember Betsy Rose.

Betsy Rose was much more than that one special horse that comes into your life – she was a teacher, friend, comic, helper, healer and a a hero. The day we met Betsy, she lay dying on the ground where she had gone down days before, discarded like trash. She had withered away to nothing but skin on bones.

Even though euthanasia was recommended, I sensed a great force within Betsy Rose – it was the same force that enabled me to overcome the odds when I was told that I would never walk again. It’s a force, when coupled with faith and believing, that can enable us to do the impossible.

She clearly had purpose and was holding out for the chance at a miracle, a miracle which a higher power absolutely knew would come.

Based on my personal experience, I knew Betsy’s rehabilitation would be absolutely physically and mentally demanding. It was going to be a long road to recovery but I believed in her and promised her that we would do everything possible to make all of her tomorrows everything her past should have been. And with that promise, we ventured into a realm of supernatural wonder. Without hesitation, she led the way for us to accomplish what should have been impossible.

Betsy and I had an unwavering bond of trust and love – she communicated very clearly. We both believed in the ability to overcome that which cannot be explained, and that faith can overcome fear. She was the guiding force on an incredible journey that led us to realize that love truly is the most powerful spiritual force that exists. It knows no boundaries and overcomes all obstacles. Her love was rare, enduring, and eternal. Betsy Rose was, simply, the very essence of love and she was quite the inspiration. She turned tears of sadness into tears of joy; trials into triumphs; and in the darkness, she showed us there was light. Throughout her journey, she drew a following from all around the world – from every continent there were people who reached out to let us know they were behind us all of the way.

Betsy Rose recovered and we were blessed to have been given over four years with her. Sadly, we lost her on December 22nd, 2017, to a condition that prevented her from being able to swallow. Being the hero that she was, Betsy Rose understood what had come to be. The fierce determination to live life to its fullest that we once saw in her beautiful eyes was replaced by a sense of peace and acceptance. I believe that Betsy knew that this peace and acceptance would help us make the heartbreaking decision to let her go to Rainbow Bridge. That was the last and greatest gift of love we could give to her in this realm.

Betsy Rose was angelic and captivated countless hearts from around the world. There is simply no way to measure the love this little pony generated amongst people far and wide, just as there is no way to describe the devastation of losing her. Her perseverance, determination, and courage to never give up were beyond measure and she led many to believe. And to this day, we still believe. Betsy Rose will always be in our hearts and she will never be forgotten. Her spirit will continue to be our guiding force and her legacy will live on through our work and through others that she inspired. Her mission had been accomplished and we will forever be indebted to this little mare with the flaxen mane who taught us to believe.

To place your horse’s need for you to let her leave her failing body above your need to keep her with you – that – is the greatest and purest love. ~ Cynthia Garrett

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Tinsel Needs Prayers

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We hope everyone had a wonderful and blessed Easter. Ours wasn’t so great. I found Tinsel not wanting to move this morning.

Dr. Ted Specht came out and he thinks she likely, has a fractured hock. He will be back out tomorrow to do x-rays. We have no clue how it happened.  Tinsel stays out at night with Little E. I’ll update tomorrow when we know more.

Good thoughts and/or prayers would be appreciated. She’s just got to be okay.
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Tinsel came to us in November 2016.  She was a rack of bones with an absolutely horrible eye injury. With 24/7 eye treatments, and the best care we could provide (thanks to our village of supporters), Tinsel beat the odds and we were able to save her eye. She gained weight and was ready for adoption.

I can’t tell you how badly I feel for her. She’s come so far. She’s such a sweet mare and she deserves a loving, forever home.
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April 2nd

There are no broken bones! What a relief it is to know that’s not an issue. Blood tests were done and I will have more information tomorrow. Her temperature is up again so she is back on antibiotics.

She’s going to be ok. Believe….
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April 3rd

Another very long and exhausting day. Tinsel still has a high temperature and elevated heart rate. Tinsel’s appetite is great. I’m still giving her antibiotics via IV.

Tinsel put a slight amount of pressure on her bad leg today.
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April 4th

Tinsel did enjoy extra attention from Christine Anzelmo Mazzola today.
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April 5th

Please continue to keep Tinsel in your prayers. She is no better but at least she’s eating and drinking. Her temperature and heart rate are still elevated. Her course of antibiotics has been changed and Dr. Ted will be out tomorrow to place a catheter so I don’t have to keep poking her each day with IV medications. He will aspirate fluid from her hock as well – the swelling is worse. I’m headed to bed now, finally. We’re all a bit worn out.

Tinsel’s veterinary expenses are rapidly mounting so if anyone would like to help with this need, it would be greatly appreciated.  Donations are tax deductible and no amount is ever too small. To donate, CLICK HERE. Please designate your donation to ‘Tinsel.’
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Urgent – National Show Horse Crosses Need Homes

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April 3rd, 2018

Due to no fault of their own, Shaker and Kandi need to find a new home(s). The adopter, who loves them very much, needs to focus on her own health (prayers for her would be appreciated) at this time. She is sad about this situation but is grateful to know the girls will only go to a home(s) that we approve. We truly appreciate the care and love that their adopter has shown them.

In 2010, Shaker came to us pregnant along with her foal, Kandi. There was an older Arabian mare that was like a mother to them that we also took in – we named her Asiya. They came from a large case in South Florida where many horses did not survive. The day we met Shaker, she was colicking and it was horrible – we didn’t know if she’d make it or not. It was a very messy situation – the owner was a hoarder and authorities were involved, but thankfully, Asiya, Kandi and Shaker made it out alive.

Shaker was born in April 2005. Kandi was born in April 2010. They are National Show Horse crosses. Shaker has been trained under saddle but, until she has more experience and time under saddle, she would be best with an experienced rider. Kandi hasn’t been under saddle in about 2 1/2 years and she had limited time under saddle back then. Both were trained using natural horsemanship methods.

We will waive adoption fees – what is most important is finding the right forever home. We are full and a bit overwhelmed. We have a few here that need extra daily care at this time – we need more volunteers. While we would love to keep Shaker and Kandi together, they can be separated under the right circumstances. They are located near Bell, FL.

We need help to find these girls a good home(s) ASAP. Please share this out and ask anyone that may be seriously interested to contact us at bhfer_admin@earthlink.net. Thank you.

#homesneeded #adoptdontshop #nationalshowhorse #shaker #kandi #bhfer
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A Magic Milestone!

MAGICS MILESTONE

January 24th, 2018

For those who know Magic’s story, you’ll understand how big an accomplishment this is, and for those who are unaware of his history, I hope that you will gain a better understanding of his very sad past.

Magic is an Arabian stallion that was used as a tripping horse. Most horses don’t survive this horrific abuse and if they do, they are so mentally messed up, that they are most often, deemed crazy and sent to slaughter.

After surviving his “charro” life, Magic ended up with someone who beat him with a 2 x 4 because he would not take a saddle. I received a call from a young lady who had witnessed this repeated abuse and asked if we could help. From the moment I saw Magic, I knew he’d be coming home with us. He was very untrusting and petrified of people, ropes, boards, etc., and understandably so.

I was very blessed that he accepted me from the very beginning and we have a relationship built on trust. It took a few years, but now he will approach other humans for scratches. I do tell everyone who goes into his paddock, however, that Magic lives life on his terms. Nobody is allowed to try to “catch” or halter him – he feels threatened if they do, and runs away.

Magic accepts me haltering him, treating injuries, putting a flymask on him, and more. If he needs a vet, I sedate him and put a soft towel over his eyes and once the vet arrives and does what he needs to do, and then leaves, I remove the towel.  It’s worked great.

Magic has had melanomas for years which had not caused an issue. However, one recently got very angry after he rubbed it raw against a board. I cleaned and treated it daily. There really wasn’t a way to keep the flies from the sore so I considered putting a sleazy on him to protect the area. Well, I tried and was pleasantly surprised when he stood perfectly still and let me do so!  I was so proud of him! I opted to leave the sore open and continued to keep it clean and treated and thankfully, it’s so much better now. But the sleazy was a major milestone for him!

To learn more about the horrendous practice of horse tripping, please click here but please be aware that the images may prove to be quite disturbing.

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The barn just isn’t the same without Cookie and Betsy Rose. Ruby gets more attention now but I’ll bet she, too, wishes her four legged friends were still with us.

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SeAnna has found her loving, forever home!  She is a pasture pal to a blind gelding.  The first time they met they clicked!  Both appear to be very happy!

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Kiana is another beautiful girl that is looking for a forever home as a trail horse. She’s getting some training sessions in with Dan Rexroad!

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Penny, a 30+ year old blind Belgian, looks gorgeous in her cold weather blanket. And believe me, it’s been really cold!

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I miss her so much.

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We always look forward to when Carien Schippers, the talented artist who has photographed many members of our beloved herd, visits the rescue. She has photographed many of our horses over the years. Carien is currently offering a discount on her art to benefit Beauty’s Haven. Please click here to view Carien’s lovely images. If you wish to purchase a piece, please use code EGPSNY for a 15% discount which is applicable through February 1, 2018.

Thank you, Carien, for your love and support.

Photo by Carien Schippers.

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Beauty’s Haven Farm & Equine Rescue Inc. is a 501(c)(3) grassroots Non-Profit Organization registered in the state of Florida (EIN: 20-4783950). We are not funded by Local, State, or Federal funds. We operate totally from donations from the public. Please consider making a one time or recurring donation to help the horses. No amount is too small and all donations are very much appreciated. Donations are tax deductible.

Beauty’s Haven was awarded Verified status by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) in 2012. GFAS is the only globally recognized organization that provides standards for identifying legitimate animal sanctuaries. Awarded November 2014 Equine Hero and 2017 Eagle Rare Life Award for Heroism. A Guidestar Exchange Silver Participant and a GreatNonprofits Top Rated Non-Profit in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017.

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