Beginnings of an animal sanctuary
When we first started our children’s program in 2011, we partnered with two beautiful old mares (35 years old) who belonged to the owner of the property we were on. Miss Morgan and Pudding were wonderful with the kids and were at large in the huge field out back by the pond. Unfortunately, at the end of November, 2011, as it steadily got colder and their health was declining, both of the horses were euthanized We all have wonderful memories of these two amazing creatures and are blessed to have known them.
Just after Christmas in 2011, the owner of the farm asked Christine Mayworm and myself if we would like to rescue a horse? We both looked at each other and said yes! Then we thought about it and knew it was a crazy idea since neither of us had ever had a horse. We put out the word and that’s when we were asked if we would take Badger. Well, it’s been a long journey and has been very challenging. At one point, because of our inexperience, we were worried that we weren’t doing the best for Badger and we called his former person to come have a look. She was overwhelmed to see Badger again because she adores him. She was thrilled with how happy and healthy he looked and told us (for the first time) that he had been on the verge of being put down before he came to us. He had become lame and despondent at her farm because he wasn’t getting the attention that he craves.
Chris and I realized that we may not be horse experts, but we had risen to the challenge of caring for Badger as an individual. Badger had many people now spending time with him and for this social butterfly, that was the miracle cure he needed.
In April of 2014, we decided it was time to rescue a second horse so that Badger could grow old with a constant 4-legged companion (his paddock mates at this farm were always changing). We were also planning on moving to a new property and wanted Badger to bond with a new friend before the stress of a new move.
I am very happy to report that both our horses are doing exceptionally well at our new property. They are thriving. What a journey and I can now pat all of us on the back and say, “job well done.”
When my girls where younger, all 3 were desperate to have a horse. I told them, “we will never have a horse.” When I first started developing my vision for SALI’s Farm, I said, “we will never have a horse, they are too high maintenance and too expensive.”
MORAL OF THE STORY: Never say never
Keryn Denroche
Founder/Director
p.s. the horses and cats are doing well, so we are now looking at rescuing some chickens and rabbits.