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BH August 4th – 5th 2014 Update

Monday, August 4th

We found a trail of blue goo at the gate to the barn this morning. We followed it and guess what it led us to?

“Mommy Theresa I was trying to clean up this place up before y’all got here this morning! I wanted to surprise you! Really! Check out my back legs – they turned from pink to blue!”

“JoJo we know you meant well but next time wait for some human help, ok? You could have slipped or something. How did you manage to get the Dawn soap all down your back legs and under your tummy?”

“I just wanted to help – I didn’t know I’d end up with sudsy bubbles all over the place! It’s kind of neat though! It’s all squeaky clean now – including me!”

I opted to douse him with Tea Tree since he was wet anyway to treat his rain rot which is much better. Karol was here – she grabbed a bottle of milk to keep JoJo busy. It ended up being a spa day for him! He’s good for getting a bath, picking up his feet to be cleaned, and more – we try to desensitize them to everything. Sometimes, I think JoJo thinks he’s part human.

After getting rinsed off, JoJo got towel dried. He’s not spoiled at all. Nope. Lord we love this little guy so much! There is never a dull day. He still needs a little buddy.

Dr. Julia worked on Betsy Rose today – she really needed it. Betsy has been stiff and yesterday morning she had a boo boo on her hip like she had a tough time getting up. Hopefully, tomorrow she will feel better. This is Marie holding Betsy Rose while Dr. Julia puts acupuncture needles in her.

The cute doggie is Dr. Julia’s little girl.

Dr. Julia worked on Donovan today too. He sweats now but it’s sporadic. His injury on his back foot is healing. He’s got some skin issues going on and I just felt like he needed a acupuncture treatment to help boost his immune system. He’s a gentle giant like Gentleman was – I miss him so much. I would have loved to have seen Donovan and GMan running the paddocks together.

Magic is magnificent!

Tuesday, August 5th

A very calm JoJo fit – he doesn’t like to wear his mask that protects his cute little pink nose! As usual, after his fit, he gets up and walks over and gives me that look like – “Well, are you going to take it off now?” Poor boy.

Bella is doing great on her journey to her new home! Pam took this picture this am before they hit the road again.

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

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Victoria Indirect Lightening Strike Update, JoJo, and More

July 14th, 2014

It was good to see Victoria more alert today – her eyes had light in them and she didn’t look like she was “lost”. Her walk was better during her exam by Dr. Julia Simonson today but she still can’t make the turns without flailing – her back end is all over the place. Dr. Julia will be back again on Wednesday to treat her with acupuncture. Dr. Julia does think that Victoria took an indirect lightening strike. When Little E was struck by lightening several years ago they found him unconscious – I’m so glad he recovered. Victoria will recover too – she’s another tough Arabian with a heart of gold.

July 15th, 2014

Is Santana not just absolutely gorgeous?? He is one of the best babysitters you could ever hope for. Well, he is looking for a forever home. NOTE: He does have navicular but is kept comfortable with hoof wraps. He’s a very sweet horse and a beautiful pasture ornament. Isn’t there someone that would love to offer him a forever home?

“Mommy Theresa come play with me!” He’s like the Energizer Bunny. LOL

Poor Victoria – it really does break my heart to see her like this. Please keep her in your prayers. She is getting an acupuncture treatment tomorrow.

July 16th

Victoria is noticeably worse today. She’s getting her treatment now.

It’s flymasks on, flymasks off. Then we do it all over again. The storms need to let up for a day or two to let us catch our breath.

July 17th

Victoria update: I just posted a video that I took today of Victoria on our business page at Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue! Please “Like” us there and choose to “Follow” for updates! I’m so proud of this mare!

“It’s ok Matilda – come and see if the grass is greener on the other side of the fence.”

July 18th

“Good morning everybody! Check this out – if I stand up here on this pile of mats I’m almost as big as Donovan! Let’s get this day started – it’s Friday!!!”

What a way to be greeted in the mornings!

JoJo got to run and play with Karol today – it was good to get a break. LOL He’s a hoot!

The entire property got mowed today except for the 4 southern larger paddocks. It took 9 hours! It’s a lot of work but Lynn Mathena does a great job! It looks so nice – I wish it would stay like this always! The lower 4 paddocks take another 5 hours to do – they need done badly to help keep the weeds from taking over. Hard to believe that in just a couple of months we’ll be starting our winter hay drive.

Some wonderful news – we have a new volunteer – welcome Lisa Swift! Today was Lisa’s 2nd day and she gave Victoria a bath. Victoria is still pretty off in her back end but the acupuncture/massage/chiro/TENS treatment by Dr. Julia helped and she enjoyed it. Dr. Julia wants to give Victoria a few days and then reassess her – she may opt to get some x-rays done.

SHELTER CONTEST! WE ARE IN 1ST PLACE in FL!!! PLEASE vote daily and help us to stay in 1st place – we can win $1000! We need this terribly for the horses! Share with family and friends and ask them to vote for Beautys Haven in FL! Thank you Yahoo! BELIEVE!

Have a great weekend, Everyone!

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

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Sisco’s Eye Injury, CaryLou, Betsy Rose, Kiana and More

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.

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Beautiful Mary Has Her Wings May 31 – June 1st 2014 Update

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

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BH May 22 nd – 26th, 2014 Update

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.

 

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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

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BH April 17th – April 22nd Update ~ Cookie

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.

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Cookie’s Cancer, an Adoption, & Updates on Many

April 10th, 2014

Dr. Porter examined Cookie’s eye – the cancer has progressed. We will be taking her to UF – it’s highly possible that she will lose her left eye.

Sisco’s front right was x-rayed – he’s been on and off lame. He walked pretty good for Dr. Porter yesterday but we did x-rays anyway. Sisco has navicular. So, to say that yesterday was not a good day is an understatement.

I’m recovering well from my recent injury and have been back at work a bit – careful to not do too much. My nose is healing fine but my neck has been an issue. I had my first ever acupuncture treatment yesterday and found it to be a very positive experience. I’ll be receiving treatments for the next couple of weeks and go from there. But, I will say this, I felt good when I left the acupuncturist’s office yesterday. Better than I have in a long time. Bob said I looked and moved like I felt 10 years younger when I got home. But that was before Dr. Porter’s visit. Now I better understand why Betsy Rose and Gentleman love their treatments by Dr. Julia.

Dr. Porter was out yesterday to look at Cookie’s eye, Sisco, and do some x-rays on Oscar. None of the findings were good. The most upsetting for me was Oscar. A little background for those new to Beauty’s Haven – Oscar was too weak to stand the day I picked him up in our minivan in February. We had been advised by the previous owner that they had been given misinformation on what to feed a donkey and that the had lost weight to the point of being so weak he could not get up. He rated a body condition score of 1. Once at the rescue, a vet immediately examined and treated Oscar. He got IV fluids, vitamins, etc. Blood work was done which indicated anemia and malnutrition – his liver and kidneys were pretty stressed. We really didn’t know if he would make it. But he’s a tough little guy!

Traditional and holistic vets, farriers, and a dentist are all part of our core care team – all work together. But no matter who is on your team one thing you can’t do is turn back time. Poor and improper nutrition can wreak havoc on the body – including the feet. Sometimes effects aren’t immediate. Oscar had been fed sweet feed, oats, and cracked corn by the owner before she was told by a vet tech that “she should only feed him horse quality hay but she could give them sweet feed as a treat now and then”.  This feeding regimen could have caused some real issues.

Oscar’s feet were long when he arrived here – he has had 3 trims here in the last 8 weeks with the farrier doing little bits at a time. He was treated for thrush and white line. Oscar improved and he grew stronger. We moved him to a paddock with Pistol – they would run and play and we enjoyed watching them. A few days ago Oscar popped an abscess and seemed uncomfortable so we had the farrier out again and while the farrier was doing a touch up another abscess resolved. Because of Oscar’s history, and what we were seeing, we opted for x-rays which revealed a rotated coffin bone and deep abscesses which Dr. Porter believes is the result of improper feeding. I’ve said this before but I’ll say it again – donkeys can NOT be fed like horses. Donkeys need more fiber and less protein than horses. We feed them Triple Crown Safe Starch forage and good grass hay.

Oscar is just turning 2 years old next week and he’s dealing with a serious issue. Although, I’m not sure he knows it’s serious – he doesn’t appear to be in any pain but he is lame. Dr. Porter drained another abscess yesterday and has prescribed a treatment plan. It’s going to take quite some time for Oscar to recover and he IS going to recover – he just has to. He needs time to grow out a healthy foot and he will need little adjustments often to optimize recovery. There are more abscesses that we are trying to draw out. His foot is cushioned and wrapped. So, for now, he will be staying with Betsy Rose around the barn. He will have another set of x-rays in a month. Please pray for Oscar – we need another miracle. And if anyone would like to help with Oscar’s x-rays and vetting it would be greatly appreciated.

The first photo is Oscar the day after he arrived back in February.  The second is Dr. Porter with Oscar yesterday.

OscarSling5

OscarXrayPorter1

Bo went to his adoptive home today! Thank you Jayne for giving Bo his own human family. Congratulations Bo!

April 11th

Serenity – she’s doing very well!

Hannah Morse, a journalism student from UF, visited yesterday for an interview and to take some video and photos. She got to meet most of the horses. Bryce was very interested in what she may have had in her back pack – he’s quite the character! “Got treats?”

I do believe that Bryce has a bit of a belly on him! LOL They are all doing great. Eliza, Bryce, Mahogany, Serenity. We are now taking adoption applications for Serenity and Bryce. They have lived their entire lives together and, ideally, we’d love to place them together. Please visit our Beauty’s Haven Equine Rescue Adoption Page where you can read about some of our adoption requirements.

This is Judy washing feed tubs after breakfast. And that’s a lot of feed tubs. LOL

April 12th

Lots going on here today!! I love it!

Victoria is absolutely stunning. A very sweet Arabian mare that is looking for a forever home.

April 13th

Photographing the photographer. Matilda loves to pose!

This was a really nice way to end the evening. Serenity is just a sweet, very sweet girl.

SerenityRide

April 15th

Cookie needs your help. She is battling cancer under her left eye. She needs surgery AT UF which is scheduled for late this week. We have posted a fundraiser on YouCaring to assist with the cost of Cookie’s forthcoming eye surgery. Please, help us to help Cookie. Thank you, in advance, for your love and support.

April 16th

It’s dental day!! Betsy Rose asked her friends to help entertain the boys while Dr. Bess checked them out. Cloud is growing up! She had to take out two baby teeth. They were both very good.

I’m so happy for Bella. She is happy at her new foster home. Thank you Jody and Lesley Osborn! From Lesley: “It was a glorious day today and I spent the afternoon with Bella grooming and simply enjoying being with her while slowly building a trusting and loving bond with her. She loved all the attention that I gave her today and she looks beautiful…”

Many thanks to Rosemary Meredith, Terri, Vicki, and Lorilie for spending this past Saturday here clipping some of the horses!

Oscar and Pistol going at each other through the gate at the barn. It’s hard to not let Oscar go out to play. But we don’t want him being too active with his front foot issues.

Beauty’s Haven advertising found in North Carolina! I love it!

Laura Brasile visited for a couple of days last week! It’s really nice to be able to meet people that we meet on social media – we love sharing the horses and telling their stories! We miss you Laura! Romeo is doing very well!

This is Sayan. He’s a darling little Arabian gelding that recently came back. He is just as sweet as ever!

BEAUTIFUL Greg!!! This little Arabian mare grabbed my heart when she had just turned 3 years old. She is the reason Beauty’s Haven came to be! To say she’s my heart horse would be an understatement. Thank you for this lovely artwork Greg – I have a special spot for it on my desk. Greg does beautiful work – check out more on his Greg Ambrose’s Art Page on Facebook.

“Beauty Kicks Up Her Heels”
14 year old Beauty, the mare that started it all at Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue, shows off her energy. Join in the rescue’s Celebration of Life on April 26th.

Our “Celebration of Life” is on April 26th! Our focus this year is education – what it takes to rescue and rehab horses such as Betsy Rose, Solace, etc. There will be guest speakers, music, games, a Q&A period, silent auction, and much more! We are holding this in conjunction with the ASPCA’s Help a Horse Day. We stand to win a $10K grant – we need your help to do that by attending our Celebration!

We are in need of some supplies if anyone would like to help – EquiSpot, Endure flyspray, Equyss Micro-Tek Shampoo and Medicated Spray, sponsors for Prescend and Previcox (both are Rx’s), and some double Velcro flymasks for mini’s. We also need a load of shavings.

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

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

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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!!!

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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

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