PASSION -- WE NEED A HORSE SLING

This photo of Passion was taken on July 21, 2010. As the photo shows, HRRRF could really use a sling for horses like Passion. We have had a number of older horses who have had difficulty getting up when they lay down, or, worse, fall down. We have had to use a variety of make-shift slings to suit these problems. Our slings may work, but they often take quite a bit of time to set up, causing more stress to the downed horse. Because the fit is not terribly reliable, they are not always comfortable for the horse. A sling costs around $2,000. We invite all of our readers to spread the word to see if we can find an affordable sling or to help us raise money to purchase one.


Passion is an older mare that really worked hard her life as a school horse. She arrived about three years ago with some lameness issues, but she has had other problems to contend with. She foundered in one leg, her fetlock dropped, and she suffered through a bad case of strangles.

Just before this photo, her good leg was being stressed as it bore the weight of the bad leg. We had the vet and farrier out to work on her. Because she was in pain holding one leg up for the farrier to trim, we rigged up a make-shift sling. If anyone needs a sling, we do! We are great at improvising though. Look at our contraption! It worked. We are hoping a brace can be made to support her leg. She has overcome many obstacles. She can do it again. She is a very groggy in this photo because she was sedated by the vet. She was actually enjoying the rest!

Passion is doing well at this time, but there may be a "next time" for her. We'd love to be prepared with a proper sling to help give her appropriate support.

posted August 31, 2010

STRAWBERRY -- AUGUST 29, 2010

Meet Strawberry.

She is a 15-year-old Medicine Hat Paint horse. She was bought by a family who wanted her for their daughter to ride. They left Strawberry at a local farm and never returned for her. The farmer was selling the property and needed to get Strawberry out. A great foster in Milton, FL took her in.

Strawberry had a bad right eye that we were originally told was not cancer, but that the damage was severe enough to remove the eye. During her vet visit, it was discovered that she did have cancer on her vulva, but plans were made to have Dr. Lee remove that along with Strawberry's eye.

After Strawberry recuperates from her surgery on Sept 1, she will be available for adoption. She will need a place where she can be stalled during the hot summer months and cold winter nights, but during nice weather, she can spend some quality time outside. Strawberry is a sweet and willing girl who will provide love and joy to her new family.

Strawberry the day of her surgery

All donations are welcome. Strawberry's surgeries will easily run over $500, not including expenses for her general care. Horse Rescue, Relief and Retirement Fund has been financially stretched lately with so many horses in need, thanks to the economy. We are grateful to all of our donors for any amounts they can give.

Note: Medicine Hat Paint horses have very particular markings, being mostly white with color on the head and ears (like a "bonnet") and were highly prized by certain Native American cultures. If they had a colored "shield" on their chest along with the "bonnet", they were considered invincible in battle.

Silent Art Auction September 4, 2010 from 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

FOR ADOPTION: LENNY

Lenny was owned by a family who thought it was okay to let baby Lenny grow up in a dog pen. He lived there until he was 18 months old. Lenny is about 20 months now. He never got to run and buck and play. Living in such a small area also stunted Lenny's growth.

He is not going to be over 14 hands. He is a gaited tri-colored gelding. What Lenny needs right now is a green pasture where he can run and play for the next year or two. Lenny loves people and attention. He needs companionship and love to grow into his potential.

August 23 2010

FOR ADOPTION: DEJA VU

Deja Vu is a sweet little Appaloosa pony mare. She is about 24 years old, loving and sweet. She can be ridden and lead around with a child on her back. She loves attention and carrots. Deja Vu only needs a dirt lot without much grass. She doesn't wear shoes so an occasional trimming keeps her feet healthy. Deja Vu is looking for a loving family who wants nothing more than to love and care for a sweet and gentle horse. Only kindhearted horse lovers apply.

August 23, 2010