February 14th, 2014

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

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

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

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

February 13th, 2014

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

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

She is dominant and constantly picks on him.

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

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

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

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

Dr. Porter’s mobile clinic is pretty amazing!

Gentleman getting his hooficure.

Oscars first hooficure.

Thank you all for your continued love and support.

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

February 10th – 12th 

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

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

Solace today. He was feeling ok. Thankfully.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

February 7th, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

February 4th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

February 5th

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

Serenity thanks you all for caring!

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

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

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

February 6th

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

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

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

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

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

February 3, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

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

January 7th – 10th, 2014 Update

Betsy Rose got “the works” on Tuesday from Dr. Julia Simonson. Betsy Rose is always the perfect patient. Below is a video of part of her treatment – just watch those needles move! Her back right hip area was pretty stiff. I’ll be so glad when the cold is gone – its really hard on the older horses.

Dr. Julia worked on Betsy Rose in the much warmer feed room.

Betsy Rose having a little discussion with Dr. Julia. Dr. Julia adores this little mare – we all do!

 

Gentleman also got a massage and an acupuncture treatment which he really needed and enjoyed.

This is little Lily greeting Katherine. Welcome back Katherine and thank you for your volunteer time!

Mollie and Victoria are good friends.

Magnum and Me!

Big horses Magic, Santana, and Magnum. Many of the mini’s. And Bronson too.

 

CJ HAS AN APPOINTMENT TO MEET A POTENTIAL ADOPTIVE HUMAN ON SATURDAY! I’m so excited! He would be a pasture pal to another horse and he would be loved and cared for!

Pistol waking up from his “procedure” today.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

January 6th, 2014

Betsy Rose taking a stroll today with Karen. The cold weather is not being kind to the older ones. Dr. Julia Simonson will be here in the morning to work on Betsy Rose – she’s having quite a time with her right side and hips. She will get acupuncture/chiro/massage. We would also like Dr. Julia to work on Gentleman. Betsy Rose’s expense is covered – would anyone like to pledge to help with the expense for Gentleman’s treatment?

Mollie has really had a growth spurt! I had to let out her belly straps at least 2 1/2″ this evening!

Gentleman (Percheron) and Matilda (Mammoth Mule). Two of our “Old Ones” that are loved, dearly loved. Dr. Julia will be working on Matilda too.

It’s hard to believe that yesterday was so warm and today is so cold. When you see me without a jacket, you now it’s really warm.

Baby Ray has settled back in nicely – it’s like he never even left. He’s just as sweet as ever. Dr. Julia will be checking him tomorrow too. It’s going to be busy! Cold and busy!

Fiona greeted me with a nose kiss yesterday. I stop in and visit with her when I can.

I’d like to apologize to anyone that I owe a PM or email to – I’m behind on everything in my life. I haven’t been in the office much. I’ll try to get back in the office tomorrow to get some work done. Have a good night – stay warm! This is Victoria and Mollie.

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

December 30th, 2013 

Many thanks to Karen and Steve – they picked up and delivered hay for us today!  This is Karen meeting Mollie.

Mollie’s HR and RR are still above normal but they are getting better.  She has more energy and is getting stronger.

This is where Mollie had a bed sore from struggling to try to get up the first few days.  The sore has healed and her new coat is growing.  It’s healthy and beautiful.  If you tilt your head a little, and use your imagination, it’s in the shape of a heart! 

I thought I got a better video today of Mollie, sorry, it’s not great but at least you can see how she is doing.  She ran and played, did the tail in the air and neck thing that Arabians do, accompanied by snorting.  She’s going to be ok.

Santana – THE perfect babysitter.  He has TONS of patience!  The mini’s take turns standing under him – it’s hilarious!  That’s Harvey’s backside you see under Santana in this photo.

We have some horses that will be needing help in order to get some vetting and x-rays done.  We need horse size Farnam Super Mask’s (double velcro) without ears.  Between the sand, sun, and lime rock dust that we have here, most of the horses wear a mask and they have to be changed daily.  We have enough of the long nose masks at this time.  

Solace – he’s been laying down more than usual, not finishing all of his food, and looks like he just doesn’t feel well at times.  He’s just not himself.  We’d like to have a physical done – including blood work.  

Sisco – he’s lame on the front right foot and needs x-rays.  Sisco is a cancer survivor and an awesome horse.  We’d like to find him a great forever home but we need to resolve this issue first.  He’s a 1987 model.  Sisco loves the mares and has no clue he’s over 15 yrs old.

CJ – he’s always had a bum left knee and is lame but he gets around pretty well but he will never be sound.  We’d like to have the knee x-rayed.  CJ needs a quiet home as a pasture pal where he won’t be as active as he is here.  He forgets about his knee and runs a lot here – it’s simply not good for him.  CJ is about 15 years young.

Cookie – I’d like to have the area where the cancer was removed near her left eye to be examined – there may be a new growth.  She also needs her front feet x-rayed.  Would anyone like to help with any of these needs?  I’d like to get on Dr. Porter’s schedule and get it all done on the same day.  

This is Little E, Sisco, and Gentleman in the photo.  Matilda is under the tree in the background.  These are our “old ones” that are simply amazing and are loved very much.

God bless and have a great night everyone!

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