February 14th, 2014
I needed some “me” time on Wednesday morning so I snuck away after feeding and chores. I retreated to Magic’s paddock. He had horrible tangles in his mane which can come about overnight and I needed a happy project and I knew I’d be there for hours. LOL
Voila! Not just detangled but braided too!
Magic came to us in 2007. He had been used in the Mexican “sport” of horse tripping. He was one of the lucky ones that survived (if you don’t know what horse tripping is just Google it – but be warned – it may be graphic). The “sport” is totally barbaric. The majority of horses that survive go to slaughter due to physical injuries or because they are too mentally fried to be handled or trained. For them to learn to trust humans after living through what they do, well, it could take years. In some cases, a horse may never come around. It’s very sad.
After being used and abused in the “sport” Magic ended up in a home where he was repeatedly beaten with a 2 x 4 because he refused to be saddled. But thanks to the intervention by a brave young lady who feared for his life, we were able to pay $200 for him. The moment I met him, I promised him we would try to right the wrongs that had been done to him. He understood – I just know he did.
When Magic came to Beauty’s Haven he was petrified of people and ropes which is understandable. He has scars from rope burns that help tell his story. He communicates very strongly – he has a huge heart and his dignity has been restored. Even though he is a stud, he doesn’t act studdish and he would never intentionally hurt anyone.
We sometimes permit some humans to go into Magic’s paddock if they want to meet him. If he approaches them for a treat or scratches that’s great. If he is uncomfortable, he will simply walk away. Nobody is allowed to go after him – he lives life on his terms and picks and chooses which humans he’s comfortable with – he’s earned that. I did teach him how to give kisses – he gives those to whoever he chooses. He has come a long way and I’m very proud of him. Magic won’t accept being handled by other humans including vets, farriers, etc. but that’s ok. I simply refuse to let anyone stress him or push him to the point of being afraid. He trusts me to halter him and do what I need to do whether its treating a sore, detangling his mane, giving him medications, etc. He’s healthy and happy and will live out his sunset years here as a Sanctuary horse. I pray that someday the cruel “sport” of horse tripping will be made illegal around the world.
Magic still doesn’t care for ropes but that’s understandable. He’s learned, from day one, that he has nothing to fear here. He is forever home.
Look at the size of Magic’s face/neck how and imagine the strength this horse has – it wouldn’t take much for him to seriously injure someone. But I trust him, completely. Look at his eyes – they are sincere, honest, and kind.
Magic deserves being happy and loved and cared for, everyday, for the rest of his life. I’ve been very blessed to be part of his life and we have a very special bond.
Look at little Ashlyn and Magic – he’s offering her kisses. This horse has come a long, long way.
I just love this noble Arabian!
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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