Tag Archive for: volunteers

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.

February 15th

Bryce and Serenity

Seeing contentment in their eyes is one of the greatest gifts ever.

Solace had a so-so day today.  The weather was a little cool, but nice.

February 16th

Although he is in better spirits, please keep the new gelding, Romeo, in your prayers – his blood work results came back.  His liver and kidneys are struggling.

Oscar can get his front end up on his own now.  We still have to help him get his back end up.

Look what our “discarded” pony named Starlight and her young lady, Jordan, accomplished in 2013!  A message from Jordan…

Can I brag about how good my pony is?
All these ribbons in her very first show year.
My end of 2013 division placings!
RESERVE CHAMP: In – Hand Trail Class.
Fourth: Beginner Western Rider
Eighth: Western Pleasure…
Eighth: Model Western
Ninth: Stock Seat
I’m oh so proud of my pony! ♡
Jordan

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

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

November 18th, 2013

I’m very happy to report that Betsy Rose is doing well! No more choke issues. She is simply the cutest little mare I’ve ever met. It’s a true blessing to have her here with us!  You can’t help but to feel a strong, positive, inquisitive, and caring energy when around her.

Betsy Rose told Mollie to not give up!

Regarding Mollie – it was a long night last night. The rain just wouldn’t let up. Well, it would and when we thought it was over, it would rain again. Just a light mist sometimes, but enough that we had to put sandbags around Mollie to keep the rain from running on her. We’d roll her over and help her to go sternum. She’d eat a little, sleep some, and wake up renewed and thrash to get up. It’s so hard to see them when they are like that. Her left eye was swollen by daylight and she had made a couple of “bed sores” worse. She had a sheet under her head, but when she thrashes, the sheet gets moved and there is just no stopping her – it can be dangerous for humans trying to help her. One clip of a hoof can cause injury if you’re within kicking range. She’d toss her head back and if you’re within range that can hurt too – I’m wearing a good size bruise on my leg to prove it. LOL

The vet oiled Mollie again this am. She was pretty tired and didn’t need to be sedated which was good because our plans were to get her up and into the sling after the vet left. Her blood work indicates that her organs appear to be ok but she has a lot of low values that we will be working on. She got more fluids today with some vitamins, B12, etc. After passing poop with sand in it, she is now passing oil.

Mollie’s gut was full of sand.

Mollie took a good rest after the vet left. And then, with the help of many, we encouraged her to stand. We were surprised by a neighbor that brought muffins, biscuits, and coffee for breakfast. It was such a nice thing – totally unexpected.

Mollie is weak but strong in her heart.

We introduced the sling to Mollie and distracted her a little while we got her all hooked up and secured. We walked her just a bit – her back end is starting to come to life.  She has very little muscle.

Mollie got groomed and loved on and her sores were treated.  Like Betsy Rose, she is another “makes you feel really good” little girl. When I think about how she has lived, and almost died, it makes me so sad.

We know about Mollie but, sadly, there are many that we will never know about. But thanks to all of you and your support, like Betsy Rose, Mollie has a chance.  I think she’s going to give it her all and pull through this. I can’t thank everyone enough who came out to help today – it was a true blessing. Bob and I are both beat – I can’t imagine how we would have managed without the extra help.

Mollie is happy to be on her feet.

Mollie was so happy to be up. The Arabian in her just shines! I adore Arabians – I love all breeds but Arabians have my heart. The connection I feel with them is something I can’t explain – it’s very strong and uncomplicated. They speak so loudly without saying a word. It is one of the most wonderful things you could experience, IMO. My mare, Beauty, is an Arabian and it’s because of her that Beauty’s Haven came to be.

Mollie could stand, with assistance.

Mollie is drinking on her own – she likes Horse Quencher in her water. She is passing oil. She has a wonderful appetite – we pretty much use the UC Davis guidelines for a refeeding program, adjusting as necessary. But everything is slow and steady. Her eye is better this evening, but still a bit swollen.

Mollie’s eye is still swollen.

Another surprise – Diane brought us a hot dinner and took care of Mollie this evening so we could sit and enjoy it! She doted on Mollie too – it’s just a natural thing to do.

Mollie getting pampered by Diane.

So proud of this little filly! Thank goodness she’s a believer!  God bless – have a wonderful night everyone!

Mollie believes!

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

 

August 4th – 5th, 2013

Some of the horses got much needed baths this past weekend thanks to Wanda Sue Malphurs, her daughter, Martina, and son, Caleb!  Look at the pretty horses!  

Ceri – a really sweet 20 yr old Arabian mare.

Classy – a Sanctuary pony.  She has a permanent trach and front feet issues.

Bella – this is Starbucks mom.  She’s available for adoption.  Very, very sweet girl.

And this is a Clydesdale named Genesis – a Sanctuary horse.  One of his eyes was removed a few months ago and the other has early stage of glaucoma.  The vets say he will likely lose that eye within the next 5 years.  He came to us several months ago with sores on all of his legs.  We were able to get the front ones cleared up.  But the back ones needed some extra attention which Jenny has been diligently giving them and they are much better!  He has a scrotal hernia and a suspected cancer spot that we monitor.  He’s a gentle giant.

Peggy Sue got a hooficure yesterday.  Betsy Rose was happy to give up the sling for awhile.  Peggy Sue is a Sanctuary mini.  She has issues with her back left leg which is basically straight and can’t bend due to an injury years ago when giving birth.  She’s a sweetheart.  We do keep close eye on her.  Sometimes, if she lays on the wrong side, she can’t get up and needs assistance.

Betsy Rose just before being tucked back into the sling last night.  Like me, she was tired!  She stayed out for about 3 hours this yesterday evening.  She hardly coughed any on Monday and her edema is almost gone and her nasal discharge is better too.

We could use some prayers today for Solace, Amy, and Betsy Rose.  Solace had a temp this am and appeared to be trying to choke.  It seems to have cleared and his temp is coming down.  He’s in a stall under fans.  Amy was trying to colic but seems better.  Betsy Rose is coughing some.  It’s too busy here today!

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

January 14th, 2013

Test results came back – values are slightly better!  I’ll take “slightly better” over “worse” anytime!  Solace so very much enjoyed the bath our volunteers, Marie and Bob, gave him today.  Please continue to keep Solace in your prayers!

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