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November 30th – December 5th 2014 Update

11/30/14

Hooficure Day! Daisy was being a very good girl while getting her feet done!

Betsy Rose was also a very good girl!

December 2nd

Betsy Rose shares her meal with Freckles on GivingTuesday. Little does she know the joy that she gives 24/7/365. What a blessing it is to have her here with us! Betsy Rose Believes!

Daisy waiting at the bottom of the stairs outside of the office. If its not one donk, it’s another. Or two or three!

Guess what broke again? Yep. One of the golf carts. Hauled away to the repair shop. And this is the GOOD golf cart.

Bryce and Serenity are still looking for their forever home. Please spread the word about them. We don’t want to have to split them up – they are mother/son and have been through so much together. We may have to split them up for Bryce to go to a trainer soon. We are turning horses away that need our help. These are two wonderful and healthy horses. More information about them can be found on our Beauty’s Haven Equine Rescue Adoptions page.

December 3rd

While on my way home from Physical Therapy this morning, I stopped just in time to see this beautiful mommy giving birth!

December 4th

Ginny changing flymasks on Sisco and Athena yesterday. Both of these very sweet horses are looking for forever homes as well.

JoJo stood there and stared at the new ramp, like he was pouting, for a good 10 minutes. Then he walked away looking totally confused.

December 5th

I still find myself looking out the window each morning to see if Gentleman is ok – it’s just habit (and wishful thinking). Instead, I find Little E and Mishka hanging out together. Little E is the senior horse here now.

Matilda is one of 13 that got hooficures today. She’s such a sweet girl – she just makes you feel good! If anyone would like to help with the expense of this we would greatly appreciate it. The average cost is $35 but the draft horses now cost over double that ($75). The total came to about $500.

We are very happy to report that Ginger will be going to her new adoptive family on Monday! She won’t be very far – it’s a perfect situation!

It was so good to see Lynda yesterday! I took her for a trip around the farm so she could visit with all of the horses. Handsome, like all of the others, enjoyed the extra attention. As soon as Handsome’s front foot issue is resolved he will be ready for a home!

Peaches is always willing to come in to help fix feed. She’s still unsound on her front right. Dr. Julia recently did nerve blocks and the issue is in her foot. X-rays were done and nothing unusual was found. Dr. Specht believes there may be a bone fragment in the navicular area that we just couldn’t see on the x-ray. Dr. Porter will be here next week to address issues with Peaches, Donovan, and Daisy. If anyone would like to help with the upcoming expense of the x-rays and exams it would be greatly appreciated. It’s not going to be inexpensive.

Donovan has some issues we’ve been working on over the last few months. He stopped sweating in early summer. He had quite a bit of abscessing in his feet and had some rotation in his front left. The “summer sore” he arrived with healed fine. But there are two sores that simply refuse to heal at the coronet band where he blew abscesses – one on the outside front right and the other on the inside back left. I do not believe they are summer sores – I think they are related to sidebone – irregular bony growth he’s had from years of improper foot care. We’ve done a lot to try to get them taken care of but just when we think we’re there he blows another and we start over. Dr. Porter will be checking it out next week. Again, this won’t be inexpensive – x-rays are needed of both front and back feet. Any amount of a donation would be greatly appreciated. This is an issue that must be resolved. We’ve done everything the vets have advised but there is something more to this – there is a reason he keeps abscessing and we need to get to the bottom of it. He’s very good about the hands on treatment of the areas, thankfully.

Mishka always looks like he’s smiling. Always. He’s like a big teddy bear.

Do you remember Spirit? She is a blind mare that we picked up in June 2012. She had endured years of neglect. It was a horrible situation. I’m happy to report that Spirit is doing well in her adoptive home! She lives with another blind mare. Spirit lived in a large herd of horses, including studs, on several acres where there were many trees with low branches, fallen trees, barb wire, debris, etc. I can’t imagine how terrified she must have been on a routine basis. She has got to be one of the bravest horses I’ve ever met. Despite the life she had been living, and her horrid condition, she never lost her spirit. Spirit seemed like the appropriate name for this beautiful but very neglected mare. Here is a link to her story, in more detail, from the beginning.

Lastly, please be sure to check out our latest fundraiser on CrowdRise. There are a few tools we need to help us do our job and to help keep the horses feed healthy.

We are an all volunteer non-profit organization that operates totally off of donations from the public. We are not funded by any local, state, or federal funding. Donations are tax deductible and no amount is too small. Donations can be made to PayPal address bhfer or via various ways on our website at www.bhfer.org. We have had quite a few things hit us at once and I know the upcoming visit by Dr. Porter isn’t going to be inexpensive. Peaches and Donovan are going to need x-rays. Also, Cookie goes back to UF next week for a follow-up. The farrier will be back today for several more. Yesterday was at about $500 and today will be another $150 – $175. If you make a donation please note what the funds are to be applied towards. Thank you for your support!

Lastly – we are switching over to a new email service. In order to ensure you continue to get our updates please go to our website homepage and sign up to receive them. www.bhfer.org. On the home page scroll down until you see this graphic on the left side and sign up!

Emails will only be going out in the current format for another week so please sign up today!

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

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Update November 23rd – 25th, 2013

November 23rd, 2013

Beautiful day. But very windy. This is Barbara and Delaney giving out hay.

I’d like to ask everyone to send a good thought or prayer out for mini Peaches tomorrow as she goes to Rainbow Bridge. She was at UF most of last week but her adoptive mom, Susan, took her home to spend a couple of days with her before having the vet out to help her to Rainbow Bridge. Peaches has cholesterol granulomas in her brain and her neurological function has been significantly impaired. She’s been having issues for awhile now but keeping her comfortable and functional has become too much on her. Peaches is 26 and is 1 of 14 mini Falabella horses that we rescued in a very sad case in 2010. There were 7 mares and 7 studs (now geldings). Out of the 14, Peaches will be 2nd out of the herd that we’ve lost. We truly appreciate Susan and the TLC she’s given to Peaches these past few years.

This is mini Peaches with her BFF, Callie. My thoughts and prayers will be with Peaches, Susan, and Callie tomorrow as Peaches makes that transition to the Bridge.

November 24th

Mini Peaches runs with the Heavenly Herd now. We love you Peaches – always!

Artist: Greg Ambrose

Liberty and her BFF, mini Magic. Both are mares from mini Peaches original herd of 14 – a rescue case we worked back in 2010. They are doing well and are very much loved by their adoptive mom, Lorrie.

November 25th

Some of you may remember Baby Girl – she’s another miracle. Baby Girl was adopted over a year ago to a wonderful family out of state. She recently started showing some changes around her right eye (which was the side of her face that was severely injured when she came to us). After consulting with her adoptive parents vets, and our vets, we thought it would be in her best interest to bring her back to the rescue so the same care team that she had when she was here can examine and assess her. If you read the article it may help to understand why we think it’s important – her case was pretty unique and the fact that she survived with her odds being “0 to none” says something about her love for life. She’s a very special mare. She arrived back here on Friday and settled right back in. She will be going to UF in a couple of weeks. Dr. Morton is looking forward to seeing Baby Girl again! Here’s a link to her story which was in newspapers around the world. http://www.gainesville.com/article/20111218/ARTICLES/111219630. 

Baby Girl upon arrival at Beauty’s Haven in 2011.

Wow – I really was “glowing” at work this morning!

Some of you may remember Daisy – a 4 year old miniature donkey that came to us in August 2013 with cancer around both eyes – the left eye was not even recognizable. Daisy has had many surgeries/treatments and some of the cancerous areas have improved while some are just determined to stick around. We brought her back to the rescue to continue with her care and try a different treatment. She’s full of life and is just a joy to be around. She doesn’t really know what to think of the boys – we’ve had storms all day and they have been in their stall. Maybe the sun will come out tomorrow and we will see how they do. For now, they talk through the stall gate.

“Double Trouble”! The boys, JoJo and Jazzy, over the weekend.

The boys trying to help with the semi-annual great “clean up the barn aisle way up in the rafters” task. Yes, it took from sun up until after dark. But it looks really nice now and the spiders are gone.

Sometimes when I see Little E tagging behind Mishka, I get goose bumps – the loss of Gentleman is still fresh in my head and heart. Mishka is doing well – gaining weight and muscle.

Betsy Rose enjoying a warm mash which she adores.

We are so truly proud of our excellent rating on Great Nonprofits.

Ruby’s UNselfie for #GivingTuesday.

Please join us on #GivingTuesday!

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Only-a-week-away—Are-you-ready—We-are-.html?soid=1119209466648&aid=0flbfr1DLtU

Wishing Everyone a blessed Thanksgiving!

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

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BH November 19th – 22nd, 2014 Update

November 19th, 2012

Princess has been having some issues so she had an acupuncture treatment today by Dr. Julia Simonson. Princess, a 26 yrs young Arabian, has had Equine Metabolic Syndrome for a few years and may have also developed Cushings Disease – several tests were done on her today. Princess was a Top Ten Working Cow horse in Canada in her younger years! Since she has been with us, she’s had 3 adoptive homes lined up. Each time, just before leaving, something would happen – an eye injury, laminitis, another eye injury – so we decided that Beauty’s Haven will be her forever home.

Princess needs help with her vetting and monthly supplements. Would anyone like to help her? Donations can be made via PayPal to bhfer or directly to Dr. Julia at PayPal jksdvm (please note it for Princess). Dr. Julia’s website, for those of you that don’t know her, is http://juliasimonsondvm.com. Donations can also be made through our “Donate” page on our website at www.bhfer.org. No amount is too small. Her bill for today was $297. This grand mare needs some sponsors.

This volunteer holding Princess while Dr. Julia does acupuncture on her is Audrey Rice.

I came across a photo of Princess with Gentleman this evening – I sure do miss him!

Attagirl came to us in August, a bit underweight and we were told that her coffin bone had penetrated the sole of her front foot. Her feet were a wreck. She had horrible thrush – the corium was exposed and it was a bloody mess. This issue has gotten better. Dr. Ryan Meeks did x-rays just to be sure there were no other issues. She also had a sarcoid on her ear that was successfully treated. Her immune system was just weak and stressed. But she put on weight and was doing well. Attagirl was examined today by Dr. Julia. Attagirl has had diarrhea off and on – just when we think everything is good, it’s not. More lab work was done today. Attagirl also needs sponsors to help her with vetting and supplements. Would anyone like to help her? Donations can be made by clicking on the links posted above.

Peaches napping in the sun and out of the wind this morning. She is going to need additional tests done to determine why she is intermittently lame in her front right foot.

For those of you who remember Domino, here’s a recent picture of her! Domino came to us only hours old in May 2012. She had been rejected by her mom. Yes, we spoiled her rotten – she’s another donkey that thinks she’s 1/2 human. LOL! She’s happy and doing well. Thank you Tania for giving Domino a great home and job that she enjoys!

Domino as a baby.

She loved her bottle!

November 20th

Good freezing morning from Beauty’s Haven!

Donovan’s a happy go lucky guy – just look at that adorable face!

These two are absolutely adorable! Yes, even from their backside. LOL!

Remember Gracie and Harvey? They are looking great and their adoptive mom adores them!

November 22nd

What is it about the office that so many want to come up and visit? Baby gate stays closed now. lol

Mishka is filling out and muscling up!

Sincerely,

Theresa

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

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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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