Being the owner of a boarding facility has its good times and bad. But it’s all I wanted growing up. When I finally made it happen I was full of excitement and good will toward my fellow horse enthusiasts. I have been fortunate enough to meet some really wonderful people over the years, but I have also met some of the worst who end up abusing their horses with no afterthought.
An unfortunate reality is that there are people out there that for whatever reason will not do what is necessary for these wonderful beasts we love so much, our equine friends. Whether it is a lack of attention, unreliable board payments, or a complete abandonment, there are those out there that should NOT be horse owners.
A lack of attention from the horse owner is detrimental both physically and emotionally for the horse. Physically it can be catastrophic for their hooves, which in turn can cause all kinds of tendon and joint problems, and in very severe cases lameness. Mentally it can cause anxiety and an aversion to human contact, not to mention depression, which can lead to more serious health problems, particularly if they are alone and not able to socialize with other horses.
Then there is the abandonment issue. Unfortunately, I have had the misfortune of having someone abandon their horses on my ranch on two separate occasions. Personally, I cannot understand how anyone can have an animal, love it for a while and then just walk away, seemingly without conscience. Not only does this type of behavior put a burden on the facility owner, both financially and emotionally, but it is the main cause for horses being sold off at auction where you never know what their future is.
A horse put in this type of scenario usually is sold for meat; others become abused and neglected animals, or end up spending their life without stability being passed around from owner to owner never having a sense of security. None of these are acceptable to me. It is my hope that people reading this will find their conscience and do the right thing, whatever that may be.
My horses are my children, and those under my care are treated as though they were my own. Those who do not feel the same about their equines should not be animal owners, let alone own a horse.
My only hope is that we all learn to show animals the empathy and respect they so richly deserve as our companions.
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{ 3 comments }
I know very little about horses. We have 2 guard donkies at the bunny rescue and a wonderful little miniature horse named Midnight Madness. They took him in when his owner was losing her house to foreclosure. She delivered him in her mini van. It was the funniest thing (and illegal) I have ever seen. He tries very hard to get the donkey girls to accept him. His ankle pops out of socket and we have to fix it for him. We need to find out if something can be done. The farrier (sp?) said he gets along great. He is a little carrot beggar. We sneak him carrots from the bunnies.
Oh the stories we have about him. My very good friend takes in abused horses. I bleed with her when I hear the stories. Just took in one gorgeous stallion that the owner just moved away and left him tied to a tree. No food or water. Luckily the neighbor noticed and went and got him. It infuriates me. Thank you for your goodness towards the horses and other animals.
Christina ~ are you married? Because you have a very genuine heart.
Well sweet cowboy, I am married to responsibility. Fulltime job and rescue activities, a handicapped brother that lives with me and always will. I am far too complicated for marriage. I do have a good “friend” I have seen for a long time. He is all I can handle at the moment. Arent you a doll for asking.
.-= christina´s last blog ..Haven aka Haven Mcgruder, Sugar Bear =-.
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