Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Horse Rescue

We have established a program to look after horses that are in need of rescue (due to abandonment or neglect) or those horses that need placement in a good home.

We were brought a very old TB gelding, we called him "Chance". Unfortunately he was only with us a year before he passed. We were pleased to give him a good home for his final days.

We took in two older Quarter horses and soon found a loving home for them. In trade for them we received a registered Paint Stallion called “Dominee” (Dutch for preacher). We may stand him at stud to earn some extra financial support.

We were given a wonderful TB retired Race Track mare. The owner had hoped she would be breedable, but unfortunately she was unable to carry full term. To make matters worse the mare had not been riden in many years and then only at the track. Since the owner already had more horses than she had time to ride, we agreed to take her. Belle turned out to be pretty smart, within a few weeks we were riding her in the round pen. We even rode her on a few trail rides. She was the slowest race horse I had ever seen, but stood quiet enough for kids to handle and brush. Late last year a young couple came up from the coast and fell in love with her.

A deal was struck and just last month we delivered Belle to the Island where she will be pampered and loved and maybe even ridden. Happy trails Belle.

Judi received a 10 year old Norwegian Fjord called “Jethro”. He wasn't in need of rescue he was a gift. Seeing he was fully trained to drive, we purchased a sleigh. The grandkids sure had a lot of fun this past Christmas.

Often the horses that come to us are "project horses". Very few have actually been abused or mistreated. What is often the case however, is that their owners life circumstances have changed. Perhaps they have had to move, or they have become ill. Most of these horses just need a gentle hand, some TLC and a little freedom to run the range.

Very seldom is any horse completely unmanageable. We spend time nurturing them, showing them honor for their wonderful contribution to mankind.

Any donations are greatly appreciated, to help us continue to take these horses in. Since we are a registered non-profit association we can and do issue Charitable Donation Reciepts. Donations can be made to Eagles Nest Ranch, Box 914 Osoyoos, BC, V0H 1V0

2 comments:

Kathy said...

Great site, Ed! Love it. Glad to hear Belle has a great home on the Island!

Kathy

The sometimes Irreverant Ed Brouwer said...

Sorry it took so long to find that you left a comment.

If you want to e-mail me some pics and a write up of your recent horse adventure I'd love to post it.

Thanks again for your friendship and as always your encouragement to our family.