My mare has been starved! Pix... [Archive]

CoolMeadows

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:40 PM

I'm so upset right now and need to vent about this and warn people. Sorry this is long...

I sent my broodmare to a 600 acre farm in ... VA in mid-February. She'd lived out before on good pasture and has done wonderfully.

The farm was recommended to me by someone I trusted at the time. I spoke with [the owner], a Purina feed dealer and owner of [the] Farm and she said "Eddie" would be fed Omolene 200 twice a day, and would be out on 60 acres of lush pasture with run in sheds and buddies. She told me how much the monthly board would be, and of course that worming/vet/farrier would be additional. [The farm owner] even offered to pick Eddie up. So off went Eddie and all seemed well for a couple of months - we would speak on the phone once or twice a week and [the farm owner] said that Eddie was very content and fat.

Towards the end of April, I began asking [the farm owner] for directions (agh, I KNOW! STUPID me for not going to the farm originally!!) to her farm as I wanted to pick up Eddie and take her to a Hannoverian stallion near me. [The farm owner] told me that she'd have her vet culture Eddie that week, and would let me know as soon as it was done. I thought,"how nice of her to arrange that for me."

I heard nothing, so I called, and called... By mid-May I was getting extremely worried and left several fairly urgent messages for [the farm owner], telling her I needed to pick up Eddie ASAP. I heard nothing back.

On Friday I finally reached her on her cell phone. She said she was pulling in to work and would call me with directions on Saturday. She never called, so I left a message Saturday evening. I left two on Sunday. I left a message Monday morning and then realized that I had a terrible feeling and had to try to find my horse. So I left [the farm owner] another message saying that I'd pulled up directions to her place from MapQuest (a lie but I figured I could find [the town] and hopefully luck into her place).

I hooked up the trailer and after nearly four hours, I pulled into a feed store in [the town] and asked if they knew [the] farms, the Purina dealership - luckily they did and sent me straight to it.

By the time I pulled up to her house it was 7:30 pm. Some lights were on but all the shades were drawn. Nobody answered so I set about trying to find my horse. The farm was indeed 600 acres, but none of it seemed to be used. There were 1 to 2 acre mud lots all around the house, each with 10 to 20 sickly looking horses in them. I couldn't find Eddie.

After 45 minutes of searching, [the farm owner] stormed out of the house screaming and asking what the he!! I thought I was doing. I was flabbergasted by the state of the horses on her property and by her demeanour and probably looked like a guppy staring at her. I told her I'd come to get Eddie. She told me to leave the property. I asked her where Eddie was and only got another "get the *&*^ off of my property!"

So I did, and went straight to the police station. The deputy went back to the farm, talked with [the farm owner] and came back to me with," You can pick her up tomorrow between 9 and 10" I didn't think an eight hour round trip home and back was worthwhile, so I managed to find one seedy motel in the whole of [the town] and stayed overnight. I was up the whole night, sure that Eddie was either dead or had been sold, or who knows what?

When I picked her up this morning, I barely recognized her. This mare is 17.1 and used to be fat and round. [The farm owner] didn't say anything while I loaded Eddie. I called my vet from the road and she met me at my farm. Eddie's estimated weight is currently 800 lbs. NO WONDER [the farm owner] didn't want me to see her. This woman is a Purina feed dealer! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif How could she do this to a horse and WHY? I PAID her to do this to my horse!! I PAID her to worm her. I PAID her $ to give to her farrier for front shoes/hind trim - Eddie has no shoes on at all and certainly hasn't seen a farrier since she left my place in February.

I hope this works, here's a link to a picture of Eddie and my vet - she looks MUCH better in these pix than she does in the (lack of) flesh.

Eddie's album (http://community.webshots.com/album/79303695wmxzYA)

The head on shot shows best how bony she is. She's still 17.1 at the withers, but there's such a huge drop now that the rest of her back is about 16 hands. I can't believe I can see the top bone of each side of her hips so clearly.

[This message was edited by CoolMeadows on Jul. 09, 2003 at 05:33 PM.]

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:11 PM.]

CoolMeadows

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:40 PM

Daydream Believer

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:44 PM

I couldn't get your pics to work but what an awful story! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Poor thing. It's best that you have her back now. I hope you are going to press charges or something against that woman for your board and the vet costs to get your mare taken care of. I sure would. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

"No hour of life is lost that is spent in the saddle..." Winston Churchill

BumbleBee

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:49 PM

Can't see the pictures but I am sorry this happend. Could you contact purina and tell them about this? I don't think they would want their name associated with this farm.

The two most common elements in the universe are hydrogen and stupidity. But not in that order.
-- Brian Pickrell

carosello

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:51 PM

I couldnt get the pics to work either. If there is a Hooved Animal Humane Society in that state you need to contact them ASAP. Also, did you have a contract? Does it state what kind of things she was being paid to do (feed, farrier, worm)? Maybe you can get her to reimburse you by taking her to small claims court. I would also contact Purina-while this doesnt mean they will do anything it doesnt speak well of who they have as dealers.

CoolMeadows

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:54 PM

OK, I'm going to try another link to the whole album. Sorry I've never used Webshots before and my brain is fried right now anyway. I think I was supposed to log out of Webshots first. Try this:

Eddie's album (http://community.webshots.com/album/79303695wmxzYA)

carosello

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:55 PM

White Bird Appaloosa Horse Rescue (VA)
Marshall, Virginia 20115
Email: info@whitebirdapps.com
Phone: 540-364-3452
New Beginning Equine Shelter (VA)
5423 Difficult Creek Road
Bedford, Virginia 24523
Email: jccasi@yahoo.com
Phone: 540-297-8268
Horse Rescue-CVHPA (VA)
Concord VA
Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue (VA)
1725 Edwardsville Rd
Hardy, Virginia 24101
Email: Pat@rvhr.com
Phone: 540-797-1999
Equine Rescue League (VA)

carosello

Jul. 1, 2003, 05:57 PM

That link worked. Im so sorry. But please call someone so the rest of the horses can be helped! I wish I was closer to help you.

arnika

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:00 PM

What a horrendous thing to happen to your horse. Thank heaven you got her back! I've heard stories like this before, good thing you didn't let her put you off. I'm sure Eddie is more than happy to be home with food, poor thing.

I also agree that you should report her to the local humane society, press charges if possible or take her to small claims court, and definitely notify Purina especially if her farm is the dealership, UGH.......

CoolMeadows

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:02 PM

I will call somebody, I just don't know who yet. I will definitely send my pictures and a letter to Purina. I hate getting involved with legal stuff unless absolutely necessary and I can't afford to spend $ on lawyers, I just feel SOOO guilty that I paid for Eddie to be treated this way and I don't want the other horses to stay there.

carosello

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:03 PM

Whats done is done...dont fret over the past just change the future.

equestnow

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:07 PM

Well, I'm just sickened for you. And SO proud of you for heading straight to the police station. I would never have thought of it in the state I'm sure you were in.
Glad you took pictures right away, too.
That's some good thinkin'!!
I hope you get some folks on your bandwagon and find a way to stop this woman from "caring" for any more horses.

KD

www.starpointequestrian.com (http://www.starpointequestrian.com)
"Seasons will change, you must move on, follow your dreams!"

Carrie

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:23 PM

My heart was in my throat when I saw the title of this thread, and I just wanted to cry after reading your post. Your poor, poor mare! Thank God you got her back when you did; who knows what could have happened if you waited any longer ...

Go after this woman in any way you can - she should not be allowed to be within a hundred miles of a horse, much less taking care of them! But most importantly, see to Eddie right now, and please keep us updated on her progress and on your actions against the barn.

Keeping you and your mare in my thoughts.

netanyajean

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:28 PM

Can't she be charged with fraud and animal abuse? You clearly have witnesses and proof. I know it's hard, unpleasant and scary, but people have to step up to the plate when it comes to things like this and see that justice is served, otherwise people like her just keep on breaking the law and hurting more animals. You were very brave to do what you did. I hope you have the courage to pursue this.

Adelita

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:29 PM

Good God, I am so glad you got her out of there, she looks awful....give her lots of kisses from me, okay?

Definitely follow up, call the sheriff's department first and make a report of starved/abused horses. The lady sounds like a "collector" and that's the worst kind.....those poor horses.

I found some more info for you:

Central Virginia Horse Protection Association
Janet Lewis, Rte 3, Box 170-A, Concord, VA 24538 (434) 993-0666 jlewis286@aol.com

Equine Rescue League
PO Box 4366, Leesburg, VA 20177 (703) 771-1240 Email smithmc@citizen.infi.net

High Meadows Equine Rescue & Rehabilitation, Inc.
Barbara Fasick, Pres, 5141 Turners Creek Rd, Ferrum, Virginia, 24088 Email bfasick@franklincountyva.org

Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue
Patricia Gillar, Secy, Hardy, VA (540) 797-1999 Pat@rvhr.com

Good luck, sometimes you have to keep beating your head against the wall...and it sounds like you're the only advocate for those other horses....

>^.,.^<
~~Linda

*~Forget love... I'd rather fall in chocolate!~*

southhillstables

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:44 PM

I am so sorry to hear about Eddie! What a sad situation. I don't know what to tell you about the whole situation legally. But wanted to offer my support! I have found that with broodmares, the best way to fatten them up, is to first double dose with Strongid C (to eliminate tapeworms, or just have your vet do a fecal exam) or else use ivermectin and then daily Strongid wormer. Triple Crown makes a Growth formula with added pro-biotics and 10% fat, 14% protein, added beet pulp and great for adding weight. Then I would add vegetable oil or a product for weight gain like omegatin (www.omegatin.com (http://www.omegatin.com)) this remedy worked well for a broodmare who came to me thin this winter, and of course all of the forage she can eat, poor girl is eating for two. I have used Omolene in the past, grain worked well, until it started being modly and having clumps in it, one so big at one point my mare almost choked on it. I sent Purina a sample of the bad product along with a letter, never heard a thing. So, that is what I think about Purina. If a company doesn't care enough to at least send me an apology letter, I would rather not buy their product. Have been VERY PLEASED with the quality of the Triple Crown. Best wishes for you, Eddy and a healthy foal!

http://www.geocities.com/southhillstables

southhillstables

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:45 PM

One more thing- Shapleys MTG works wonders on raint rot, skin funguses and hair growth!

http://www.geocities.com/southhillstables

Bugs-n-Frodo

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:46 PM

Call a lawyer ASAP! That is horrendous! There is absolutely no excuse for animal cruelty, I have NO sympathy for people who starve and abuse animals. Who knows how many others have trusted their horses to her care and have no idea how they are being treated. I swear, if anyone EVER mistreated my horses, they'd better hope they never see me again. I am sorry, I am very passionate about that kind of thing. Give your mare a big hug from me, she is a trooper, and lots of carrots. I am so sorry that this happened to you. Please take some action, I know you are planning on it. I am very upset for you and I can't imagine how you must feel.

~Amy, Bugs and Frodo~

lilblackhorse

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:48 PM

oh god, I am soooo sorry for you and for Eddie. You must just be ill, but don't beat yourself up. It sounded good, and how could you know?

I say sue the hell out of that bitch!! I am not kidding. While you may not like confrontation, this woman is a fraud, and she is abusing and neglecting animals under the premise of taking care of them....and the fact she is a purina dealer? good grief----I love the idea of going thru them too-smear this woman's name all over hell and gone so she has no life.

What she did was and is despicable. She should rot in hell for what she has done to your lovely horse.

*whew*....ok, can you tell I have had a lousy week? ok, I still stand by what I said. You may not have the money, but perhaps some of these rescue folks or someone else could help pay some of the costs to enable you to nail her.

I wish you luck-eddie will come back, and it will be ok. Just feel happy you got her when you did--it's that motherly intuition, isn't it?

Hang in there, it will work out, but nail this snake in the grass. I bet there are a bunch of the virginia clique who will line up to help you. this just incenses me. grrrrr http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Elippses Users Clique........Co-Founder Occularly Challenged Equine Support Group, Pony Club (Graduate) Clique

"And how's that working for ya?" Dr. Phil

CoolMeadows

Jul. 1, 2003, 06:56 PM

Thanks for the suggestions. I will be in touch with the Central Virginia Association - I think they're the closest. And I will definitely be in touch with Purina.

Southhill - I use Triple Crown 14% Performance - it's 14% protein and 10% fat and I love it too. I also used to use Purina (Strategy) until the quality got inconsistent and my horses dropped weight.

I wanted to PowerPac her but my vet said no, she's too weak. The poor thing spent the whole trailer ride leaning against the trailer wall to stay upright. So tomorrow I'm doing a double Strongid, and then a PowerPac in a few weeks.

Tonight I gave her about 1 1/2 lbs of the Triple Crown, 1 lb of beet pulp, 2 ounces of TractGuard (vet gave me a free sample for Eddie) and all the hay she can eat. After worming her tomorrow I'll give her a tube of Probios. She'll be getting fed three times a day, but it will be a while before I can build her up to what she needs. She literally attacked the salt block in her stall tonight. I put her out for an hour on grass this evening and will do the same tomorrow but again, she hasn't seen grass in so long I'll have to be careful building up her time.

The vet left me some shampoo and spray for all the rainrot (her whole body has bloody spots). Anything else I should do for her?

BonjourChaton

Jul. 1, 2003, 07:45 PM

there are no words! I don't know what else you should do besides legally go after this woman. it's absolutely horrific what she's done. Certainly the police who were there when you took Eddie did something?

All the luck in the world for you and your gorgeous, gorgeous mare and a healthy foal when you breed her.

---
A day without sunshine would be like ... night.

ponygrl

Jul. 1, 2003, 07:52 PM

she looks so happy to be home What a nice mare

Laura

juniormom

Jul. 1, 2003, 07:58 PM

You might want to try plain aloe on rain rot and fungus. Works great. There is a series of products called aloe advantage that also works well for rain rot, etc. There are 3 products in a series. You need the cleanser and the next one. Or, just the plain aloe. Good luck! I am glad you got your poor horse out of there! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

CoolMeadows

Jul. 1, 2003, 08:13 PM

By the time the sheriff went to her farm, it was dark. He told me he didn't see my mare there, but [the farm owner] had told him she was and he believed her. There were no police at the farm the next morning when I picked her up. I'm not really sure who I go to first. I know I'll contact a rescue, and Purina, but do you think the police will do anything? It's an area of Virginia [that] seems very economically depressed and, excuse me for sounding like a snob, but I saw very few horses on the drive and many, many cows. [The farm owner's] driveway was a good mile long, and none of the horses are visible from the road so maybe I should make a complaint? Although the sheriff said she'd been there for twenty-some years and has always been an "upstanding member of the community"...

The sheriff did tell me that she'd told him that my horse was the only one there that she didn't own... which means she owns 40+ poor horses. I think something's gone very wrong...

Poor Eddie is definitely happy to be home. She ran into the trailer at [the farm] and attacked the hay net - this from a mare who's been a tricky loader for 6 years! She's definitely not seeing any stallions this year - even if she was in good shape, it's too late in the season.

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:15 PM.]

Adelita

Jul. 1, 2003, 08:26 PM

I second the Shapley's MTG for the rainrot.

And I would go ahead and call the Sheriff and tell them you want to lodge a formal complaint of animal cruelty/abuse. Even if she's been a fine, upstanding citizen for 20 years, she's not doing those horses any favors. The problem there is that you will run into people who don't know what a good, healthy horse looks like and will think these horses are "fine" with persuasion of the owner. That's why you *start* there, then move on to your local equine rescue groups.

Bless you for caring and getting your mare OUT OF THERE.

>^.,.^<
~~Linda

*~Forget love... I'd rather fall in chocolate!~*

Tin

Jul. 1, 2003, 08:32 PM

OMG your poor beautiful mare! I'm sure she's glad you came when you did... but you can still see a wonderful spark in her eye http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Call everyone- especially the Police and a lawyer or take her to small claims. This is awful.

I'm sorry she did this to your mare

~ Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once ~

lawndart

Jul. 2, 2003, 02:48 AM

UGH. That is awful. So unfair to your mare, and a stressful situation for you. She will come back to beautiful health, now that she is back with you. Document everything, starting with a written detailed account of your visit, and what you saw there.

I agree with everyone else, you must go after this woman in some way. Is she the one who advertises board for $100 per month? I see that ad in the Horse of the DV. I often wondered how anyone could do it for that. Doesn't matter how many acres of pasture you have, you still have to give hay and grain to most horses unless they are airferns.

It is truly sad what people in this modern educated country will do to animals. And lets not even get into what some do to children http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif

Don't beat yourself up over it. Just tell everyone you know, because bad reps travel a whole lot faster than good ones.

OLD FRIENDS FARM-Equine Retirement-We LOVE Seniors!!http://www.sphosting.com/oldfriends/farm.html

marta

Jul. 2, 2003, 03:22 AM

holly cow!
thank god you got her out of there.
please go after this lady. you can get your $ back. she committed fraud for sure. did you have a written K with her? if you did then you can probably get her on a breach of K. at least consult an attorney about your options. fraud statutes usually offer triple damages so attorneys are willing to take those cases b/c when you triple the damages it turns into a substantial sum of $ and also b/c the statutes usually provide for attorney's fees.

"It appears we are being transformed from an information
society to an informant society." Rep. Dennis Kucinich

Rusty Stirrup

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:15 AM

This is why it's a good thing I don't have a gun. This woman wouldn't have a chance.

Ride on! Rusty Stirrup

ise@ssl

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:24 AM

I would get that letter and photos off to Purina - pronto - and send it Certified Return Receipt REquested.

I worry about the other horses there - they could be owned by outside people as well.

Hope your mare makes a complete recovery - poor girl.

levremont

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:37 AM

I cannot believe people like this, how terrible. Glad you got her back, poor thing, it will take time, but she will get back to looking/feeling good.

carosello

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:38 AM

Who to contact? well I would start with the rescue and see what they recommend. The best result is action and you need to follow whatever protical is best in that state. Hopefully they have some investigators that can go. Good luck to you and your mare. Im so happy you got her out in time.

War Admiral

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:51 AM

I am SO glad to hear you got her home. You are very brave and so is she. This is every caring horse owner's worst nightmare. And yes you have grounds for a lawsuit. Be sure to get your vet to state in writing what his/her findings were upon examination. Maybe even bring in another vet to confirm. Take LOTS of photos that demonstrate her condition.

I feel for you, and for her, but I know she is happy to be back where she will be tenderly cared for and loffed. Best of luck to you.

"Fine upstanding member of the community" my behind!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif I'd make as much fuss as it's possible to make. Good luck, hugs, karotten & best wishes!

______________
"It's a thin line between a smart TB and a smart-@$$ TB."

joliemom

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:53 AM

When you said starved, you meant starved! Good heavens, I didn't expect to see your mare that skinny, her feet that bad, nor that much rain rot. Big ol' hugs to you both.

Reading this, I think your best option for prosecuting this woman is through a rescue group with the $$, time, and attorneys willing to take this woman on. One neglect case may not go far, but several will get the court's attention. See if you can also get some local news coverage, too.

"Never trust a man in a blue trench coat, never drive a car when you're dead." Tom Waits

Oakleigh

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:54 AM

Your photos made my heart lurch. I'm sick over the condition of your mare!

Gather up photos taken before her stay there, photos afterward, statements from your vet, and your contract and cancelled checks. Head to a lawyer. OR, at least small claims court to get your board money back. She obviously wasn't using the payments to purchase feed for your horse.

Give your mare a big kiss and hug. Be thankful that you have her home!!!

Oakleigh

~~~~>>>>****~~*~~****<<<<~~~~
Breeder of Holsteiner and Oldenburg prospects.
Oakleigh Sporthorses (http://hometown.aol.com/psulli1002/page1.html)

LisaB

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:57 AM

Maybe with doing the lawsuits and criminal investigations might prompt the powers that be to get the other horses off the property as well. And if you stick it to her, she will have a record and hopefully, I'm praying, that she won't ever have another animal at her barn. Get the farrier/vet/etc bills together. Get the equine rescue leagues involved. This person should not be owning any animals. If you need help with all this, just holler. I think we can get a stampede together.

Sparky Boy

Jul. 2, 2003, 04:58 AM

Are you positive [that] is her real name. I went through a similar situation about 5 yrs ago with a woman in VA that I sold a broodmare to. Had to "steal" the mare back from her, it was also half starved, as were all her other horses. I seem to remember the police telling me she had gone by other names in the past.

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:16 PM.]

showrider

Jul. 2, 2003, 05:15 AM

Coolmeadows:

Wow, she looks in the same condition mine did when I picked her up 2 weeks ago. I was paying for everything and got nothing. My mare is an older/aged horse. She hasn't had her supplements in 2 months. I know this for a fact, because I gave them exactly 2 months of supplements. When I moved her out, they were all still there. I also supplied them with 4 bags of Senior. In a month she only went through 1/2 a bag? No way. I know what I always gave her. She is a HUGE grain eater. Those 4 bags should have been gone in 2 weeks.

You did the right thing. I'm so proud of you for not letting her push you around. What did you vet say?

You 2 are in my prayers.

*******************************

*Cry me a River {Thanx Justin T. Stay away from Britney.}
**Build me a Bridge
&
***GET OVER IT!!!!!!

http://groups.msn.com/AllAboutFIRSTPRIORITY

ErinKolby@aol

"Life is too short, to take too seriously."

Lisamarie8

Jul. 2, 2003, 05:17 AM

CM! You poor poor thing! and your poor poor mare!

This woman sucks. I think that sums it up. She truly sucks.

I'm close enough to you, that if you need any help with anything I'll help. I certainly don't know what i could help with, but i want you to know that if you or your beautiful eddie need anything i'm here.

There's got to be a lawyer on this board who would donate some time to a good cause and help save some of those poor horses!

give eddie a kiss from me!

Lisa D

--- I may be love's b*tch, but at least I'm man enough to admit it.

HopelessHunter

Jul. 2, 2003, 05:19 AM

She is really skinny! You should contact the local Humane Society, and also the police again. Other people might be boarding their horses there and paying extra money, while the same thing is happening to them. Donna Anderson should be sued.

Doing anything like that to a horse is in-humane, and disgusting! Especially being a Purina Feed dealer! Before you do anything about the police, if you can, try to reach her on the phone, or go back to the property (with police's permission, but not with them there) and talk to her about why she did this to your horse. Also, spread the word around your state, tell your friends to tell their friends, and so on and so forth.

hoser1

Jul. 2, 2003, 05:33 AM

What you need to do first is find and contact the local animal control department in the county where the farm is located. They need to be alerted of the situation -- the sheriff probably has no idea about how horses should look & be cared for. Animal control will be able to help the other horses & possibly get the ball rolling on charging this woman for neglect and/or cruelty.

Be sure to keep and document the pictures of your mare before and after. That may come in handy big time.

It is unlikely that a civil law suit against this woman would do any good. 9 times out of 10 people like this have few assets to seize, and you end up with an empty judgment. Good luck & keep us posted!

If you have any further questions, feel free to contact me (Rebekah) at the American Horse Protection Association: (202)965-0500

drifting cloud

Jul. 2, 2003, 06:00 AM

CM -- Your story makes me want to drive to Virginia and kick that woman's a$$ all the way back to South Carolina. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif I cannot believe someone could be so sick and cruel. I know you are feeling awful about the whole thing, but you had no way of knowing this would happen. Just be glad you got Eddie back in time. She will be fine (no thanks to [the farm owner]!).

I agree that you need to do something to make things tough on [the farm owner]. I'm not sure what the best course of action would be. Judge Judy would have a few things to say to her! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

"The power of acute observation is commonly called cynicism by those who have not got it." - George Bernard Shaw

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:18 PM.]

Nikita

Jul. 2, 2003, 06:33 AM

How can people do this? Whenever money was short, I always made sure the animal stuff was bought and I did without if need be. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif I just don't understand it.

No further advice to give but I just wanted to say that I'm so sorry you both had to go through this. Give your sweet mare some extra hugs. (and a whole bunch of groceries!)

My mind not only wanders, it sometimes leaves completely.

katarine

Jul. 2, 2003, 06:54 AM

make sure she has access to free choice minerals.

What a snarky, dishonest, thieving, lying beatch. give her hell, up one side, then down the other.

"Shoot me now! Shoot me now!"
Bugs Bunny

treasmare

Jul. 2, 2003, 06:58 AM

This is just awful....and that woman really ought to be straved herself to appreciate what it is she has done to these poor horses. I think if if was my mare a I would have problems controlling my emotions, esp the anger part. But you sound very very wise and I think you handled it very very well so I trust you will handle the rest of it in the best way possible. I hope it all comes out as it should and isn't your sweet mare lucky to have a mommy who sensed she should go after her....it likely saved her life. Please give her some hugs, kisses and treats for me. The hopeful part is that once you get her on some solid footing nutrion wise I have heard it said that mares on the gain concieve at a good rate.

[This message was edited by treasmare on Jul. 02, 2003 at 11:22 AM.]

[This message was edited by treasmare on Jul. 02, 2003 at 11:23 AM.]

near miss

Jul. 2, 2003, 07:08 AM

OH MY GOD, this is horible. I would start by calling one of the equine rescue/protection leagues, I would imagine they could point you in the right direction. Ask your vet if she is willing to help participate in prosecuting, which I hope it comes to that (not trying to give you any more stress, but GET HER!!) Wish there is some way you could get some pics of the other horses, and place, but if a rescue/protection league gets involved I am sure they will do that.
I would also call the Purina company and find out who you need to talk to and explain how this woman is fasly representing their company and neglecting horses.
Good Luck, SO glad you got Eddie back!

www.equinewellnessmassage.com (http://www.equinewellnessmassage.com)

Mallard's Mum

Jul. 2, 2003, 07:41 AM

CM I am so sorry about your mare, you must feel so betrayed, hurt, angry and a ton of other emotions. You were so brave to go by yourself and get her back - good thinking.

I checked on the internet and found the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals website. aspca.org Maybe they can help and give you advice on what to do with this woman.

One thing is for sure: it would be a crime to let her get of free with what she has done.

Why walk, when you can ride!

MandyVA

Jul. 2, 2003, 07:41 AM

Animal protection leagues can't just walk onto someone's farm and investigate, but animal control can and will. Please, please, dial 411, ask for the [town's] police, ask the police to speak with their animal control officer, and tell them everything. They WILL go there, and if her horses are as bad off as yours was, they will be seized and THEN placed with a rescue or the SPCA. But she has to be formally charged before those horses can be helped, and it might take some time. The longer you wait the longer they are suffering. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif

Mandy & Pyrrhus

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:19 PM.]

canadian eh?

Jul. 2, 2003, 07:43 AM

uggh.... what a horrible ordeal, your poor mare!!! She looks sooo scrawny, I hope she makes a full recovery and you can do someting about the other poor creatures living there still.

*~* Not the sharpest crayon in the tool shed, are we? oh wait... *~*

INoMrEd

Jul. 2, 2003, 07:59 AM

I'm so sorry about your lovely mare. I know exactly how you feel as I had this happen to my retired horse many many years ago.

I say press on with any legal action available to you. You are doing the best you can. I'm so glad you were able to take her home and care for her properly!

There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness." - DAVE BARRY

Tiramit

Jul. 2, 2003, 08:40 AM

How horrible!!!! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif Too bad there isn't a muddy lot that you could send that bitch to starve out the rest of her days before she goes to meet the rest of her kind in hell. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Please give Eddie a carrot and a pat for us! I hope she recovers quickly!

LGW

Jul. 2, 2003, 08:55 AM

Holy smokes! I am so sorry for you and your mare. Not only is this woman a disgrace from society, I am somewhat ticked off the police didn't offer you more help during your first trip to get your mare. If I had been in your shoes and I was told to come back the next morning, I would have either left with my mare in the trailer that night or I would have left handcuffed in the back of the police car after putting [the farm owner] in a worse state than your mare left in. Good for you for keeping your cool and letting others aware of the situation.

Maryland Clique

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:20 PM.]

mellsmom

Jul. 2, 2003, 09:01 AM

Lunenburg County is where [the town] is....

http://www.henricohumane.org/vaanimalshelters.htm
The animal shelter number listed for this county will give you information on animal control for this area.

Good Luck.

"I've got a holiday, a paid holiday, I've got a holiday in my head"

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:21 PM.]

Schatten

Jul. 2, 2003, 09:54 AM

OMG that is so awful! but great that you got your mare out of there.

I think we should all gang up and go get this evil lady ourselves! anyone with me? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

http://community.webshots.com/user/lskel84

OneonOne

Jul. 2, 2003, 10:04 AM

I was just thinking...would this thread be better on Off Course? That way more people would see it and it would get this woman's name out there as an Evil B***h. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif I don't know how much more traffic there is over there... Just my random thoughts.

CoolMeadows - I'm glad your mare is safe and sound and home with you! Good luck!

__________________________________
You put on the leather pants and the pants start telling you what to do. -Bono

Bugs-n-Frodo

Jul. 2, 2003, 10:44 AM

I live in Maryland and I would be willing to help you if you needed it. Please let us know how she is doing. We do need to spread the word about this woman, to the folks in VA, MD, SC, NC and any other state within her "reach". Like others have said, I am glad this wasn't me because I would have left in the police car, not with my trailer and my mare. I would have ripped her face off. If there is anything I can do, PT me and I will give you my contact info.

~Amy, Bugs and Frodo~

Luvinfoofy

Jul. 2, 2003, 11:00 AM

What a terrible, terrible thing to happen to any animal - thank God you have her home and safe! I second the idea to write and call Purina - I've always had wonderful luck with them. You never know, maybe they will arrange to send you some weight gain feed for your mare - AND get after the person who did this to her! Small claims, animal protection agencies, do whatever you need to! You have a wonderful mare, good luck with her and keep us updated!

Ryd your PoE pOeS!!

roundbale

Jul. 2, 2003, 11:29 AM

There were some people starving some horses in my neighborhood, I got to watch them every day out my kitchen window! Called humane soc, animal services, the county sheriff. The basic story is that if they are providing any! food and water than they are not in violation. EEE gads, how ridiculous. We called a judge ( I think just about any ELECTED official would do ) while he was eating dinner. That night there were 2 sherriffs there. The next morning - a Sunday - there was a team of veterinarians there and several sherriffs there.
A shelter was built, hay was trucked in etc etc.
Then they moved away and I only pray that new neighbors were able to keep these jerks motivated.
My point ; go public...TV, newspaper, elected officials. Seemed far more effective for us than "proper channels". Good luck.

Cowgirl

Jul. 2, 2003, 12:29 PM

Very horrible.

I have long worried about what to do with my horse when retired. But your story is just again another reminder that it will have to be a place nearby where I can go to check on him. After having numerous boarding barn troubles, I am convinced you can NEVER trust anyone else with the complete care of your own horse.

Gallop On

Jul. 2, 2003, 01:56 PM

That's awful. Go after her and do whatever is necessary to ensure she doesn't do this to someone else or another horse.

HuntJumpSC

Jul. 2, 2003, 03:04 PM

NO EXCUSE whatsoever for what that horrible woman did to your mare! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif She's guilty as sin of fraud, animal abuse and neglect, and just plain ol dishonesty http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif Throw the book at her...the bitch deserves everything that's coming to her. There's a special place down below for people like her~ AND for that woman who dragged the JRT behind her car http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

II===II SUZ II===II
"KICK ON, AIDEN!" http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif
*SC'er's Clique*Group W Bench Clique*

hitchinmygetalong

Jul. 3, 2003, 03:31 AM

CoolMeadows,

I have nothing to add to all the other suggestions you have gotten from the other posters.

I just want to say I think this whole thing is horrible and I hope that one day you will walk around a corner and run into this woman (if you haven't put her in jail yet) and you will be able to tell her face to face what she has put you and your poor Eddie through.

I'm so glad you were able to get Eddie back. I'm hoping for a fast and uneventful recovery. I guess breeding her this year is out of the question now, right?

Best wishes,

Hitch

"I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning to sail my ship."
-Louisa May Alcott

shiloh

Jul. 3, 2003, 04:24 AM

CM you have been given some very good advice here. If it was me in this situation well, let's just say I'd be well on my way to a long stretch in the pokey after what I'd do to that rotten cow. I wonder, though, how many horses have died there and she kept collecting the money until someone finally called for a status check. I wonder how many folks got told their horse had "just" died. I bet none of the horses remaining there are hers. Grrrr....

Sic 'em girl - go get her! And tell us alllll the details.

"Those that would sacrifice liberty for security shall have neither."

SloRider

Jul. 3, 2003, 06:51 AM

CM,
I can understand that you may not have had much help from the local law down there, it is still very much in the good ole boy area. I would consider contacting the state police they may be more effective. No matter what, you must file a formal complaint so that there is something on file. Contact the Commonwealth's Attorney for Lunenburg Co. also. Make waves, noisey ones. There is no cost to this as I can understand the quandry of not having the finances to enter into a legal battle. Being a squeeky wheel can be very worth the effort. Never underestimate the
power of persistance. Call the editors of the local horse publications, clue them in. Bring it to public attention. VA horse owners are a
very large and influential group, put us to work. Let us know how things progress. You will also be educating others on how to deal with similar situations. GO GET HER!!!

tatertot

Jul. 3, 2003, 07:35 PM

I was horrified by your story and the pictures of your poor girl, some people are reprehensible, I don't know how people like that woman live with themselves. I am sure there is a lawyer that you can contact that will take only a percentage of your settlement if you win and not charge anything over that. You should definitley do some things to make her life miserable and to help the other horses. Our animals can't speak for themselves so they need us to speak and act in their interest. I am glad your girl is back in your care and that you are a good mom and took the effort to get her. Good luck with fattening her up and making her gorgeous.

CoolMeadows

Jul. 4, 2003, 05:40 AM

Thanks to everyone for all the suggestions and offers of help.

I called animal control for that county and was told they'd check it out. My guess is they won't do a thing for the horses as there's feed on the property so I also notified an animal protection group that I'm positive WILL cause a lot of noise if and when they get involved.

Purina has been sent a letter and pictures also. I'll file charges in Lunenburg county- thanks for that suggestion.

Poor Eddie is feeling better (mentally anyway). She's had a couple of good medicated baths which she groaned and grunted through - she's sooo itchy, I cut her mane (I've never cut it before but she never liked having it pulled and I didn't have the heart to annoy her). She's hoovering hay at an alarming rate and goes nuts for her three meals. She is VERY foot sore - she's never been without front shoes before and my farrier won't be here till Monday.

I have to leave a fly mask on her all day because the flies ignored the SWAT and wouldn't leave the bleeding scabs on her face alone. She also has oozing crud on her legs and body and I had to put some fly bands on her because she was so distressed by the flies. I've never used them before but she's no longer stomping and chewing ( yes she was literally gnawing at her legs) on her legs. The poor thing - I think every fly on my property zoned in on her.

To whoever asked - no she won't be bred this year which I'm also sad about as she is a wonderful mother and is happiest when she's in foal or has a foal at her side. She gets the softest doe eye and looks so content.

Thanks again to everyone. I will go after this b*tch. There were too many horses there that looked like Eddie.

Bugs-n-Frodo

Jul. 4, 2003, 05:52 AM

CM,

Please keep us up to date on her progress and your legal progress. I would love to see Eddie after she has picked up some weight. Good luck and I am glad to hear that she is getting the care and love that she needs.

~Amy, Bugs and Frodo~

Hubbafer

Jul. 4, 2003, 05:56 AM

This is horrible!

This also happened to me, but with my gelding. He was on a 2 week trial, and the people who had him wouldn't trailer him back (in the contract we signed, it stated that on their expense to return him!).

They thought I was shipping him for meat and wanted to KEEP him....I found out about this from one of their boarders....who is also a friend of mine. I immediately got another leasee who insisted on paying for the trailering, and he is now in a safe new home....when I saw him on the trailer, he was in rough shape. He had cuts on his face, and also on his hocks....I was LIVID!

They have now lost all possible new boarders....the word went around about their business, and they did it to another person also...

Maggie Mae

Jul. 4, 2003, 10:43 AM

Hey there,

I just wanted to add my best wishes for your mare. She seems like a lovely gal and I'm so glad you didn't find her in a worse state.

I haven't read through all the posts so I don't know if someone suggested this already but have you contacted Purina about this? I don't know what they'd think about this woman being a feed supplier but I'm sure many other horse-owners out there would appreciate hearing your story.

All the best, Meg

_______________
Never take life seriously. Nobody gets out alive anyway.

findeight

Jul. 4, 2003, 11:26 AM

I rescued a gelding that wasn't quite as bad as this one but certainly close, you could see the vertabrae and the tail head.

Be very careful that she gets some excercise several times daily if you can pull it off..hand walking or even short turn out.
My guy ended up at Rood and Riddle with a bad impaction colic and I found that it is quite common for horses that have been starved then are confined to a stall for rehab to colic like this.
Apparently it also happens when one comes in from an extended period on pasture.
The horse is used to wandering around at will and when confined the gut becomes less active resulting in an increased chance of colic.

Starved horses also tend to eat too much and drink too little which doesn't help..teeth need immediate attention too.

In the case of my gelding it took about 8 weeks for his ribs to start to disappear and probably 12 to lose the disgusting protruding hip bones. It was a full year to restore a normal weight although he looked decent enough to show locally in about 6 months.

Just go slow and resist the urge to speed things along.

The Horse World. 2 people, 3 opinions. That's the way it is.

Jeni

Jul. 4, 2003, 12:26 PM

Go after her! What she did to your mare is inexcuseable and sick.

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

Proud To Be A Canadian Sport Horse Owner

chicadee411

Jul. 4, 2003, 05:59 PM

That is horrible. Thank god you got her back when you did!

What's funny (not in a good way) is that I had a somewhat similar situation w/ another Purina dealer in New York. My trainer and I went to look at our friends horse and there was no food there!!! She had a few plastic ziplock bags filled with food and that was it. Needless to say, our friend and everyone else pulled their horses out of there the next day.

I guess Purina needs to start doing their homework!

Best of luck getting your horse better and fatter.

slc2

Jul. 4, 2003, 06:05 PM

be careful how you feed her, don't try to fatten her up too fast, and don't give her a lot of grain. make sure the hay isn't too rich at first, gradually work her up to better diet.

ltw

Jul. 4, 2003, 07:14 PM

I am so, so sorry for what has happened to your mare. She has such a sweet, kind forlorn look in her eye. The head shot shows her hips and spine all too well.

It makes me absolutely furious that someone did this to your horse and to any horse. Make sure you go after this woman. She does not deserve to have any horses. Why, why, why did she not turn them out on pasture if she could not afford to feed them. At least then they could keep their health and weight from the grass. And with the wet spring we have had there is plenty of grass!

Good Luck to you, I hope she is OK!

MellowM

Jul. 5, 2003, 07:36 AM

I am sooo sorry this happened to you! That is terrible! Your poor mare, I hope she gets to feeling better. It makes me so mad that someone could treat a horse like that.

PeriwinkleBlue

Jul. 5, 2003, 02:55 PM

This is awful. CM, I'm so sorry you and Eddie are going through this.

What leaves me wondering is WHY? I mean, this woman was obviously eager to take the horse for you, drove out to get her and everything.
She didn't breed her, didn't get any foals out of her, so what on earth did she get out of this? It just leaves me speechless! http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

*****************

Her vocabulary was as bad as, like, whatever.

Gravie

Jul. 5, 2003, 05:24 PM

Oh my, CM, I'm so sorry. She looks like a wreck. >_< I just can't BELIEVE it, I really can't. That's awful, and I hope you find a way to press charges or something, get your money back, whatever. And I hope that you, your vet, and farrier, have all worked something out for your mare. And I hope that she gets in good flesh soon, and is back on track. >_<

Thank goodness you took the initiative and got her, though, before it was too late.

(What was this woman THINKING?!)

__________
"What do you mean, I'm not brave in bed?" said Harry, completely nonplussed.

{harry potter & the order of the phoenix jk rowling}

Snufflupagus

Jul. 5, 2003, 05:47 PM

horrible situation. She looks like a mess, but she has you and your wonderful vet now, and she must really be feeling good, just knowing that she's "home".

be sure to update us with how she's comming, pictures would be GREAT! (il ove pictures lol)

BTW, what are her stats (age, breed ect)

Yes....It Is I Snufflupagus aka Snuffy!

2487lyf

Jul. 6, 2003, 10:18 AM

http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_eek.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/sigh.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/dead.gif http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_frown.gif http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif
that's awful! i feel your pain!!

~*~Nattie~*~
http://community.webshots.com/user/nattie2006
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Founder of the Maryland Clique!

whitmers

Jul. 6, 2003, 12:15 PM

Coolmeadows,

I live in Southside (Charlotte County)- moved here 4 years ago. Ditto what others have already said about this area (economically depressed, mostly cows and other livestock, and definitely a mind-your-own-business attitude on the part of law enforcmement!) Horses are just things to a lot of people down here, no more important than a tractor or a plow. (Not to all people, but many). I agree with those who said you are not likely to get satisfactory action from the sheriff's dept or even animal control - these folks often just do NOT know when a horse is being starved (unless it dies) and usually take the owner's word for it that nothing is wrong, especially if the owner/caretaker is someone they know and you, the complaining party, are an out-of-towner. I agree that your best bet is to get an equine rescue org. to press the issue with the sheriff's dept.

I don't know this woman, but my vet is in [her town] and I know the area. Since I am close by, e-mail me privately if I can help you.

Mary K.

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:25 PM.]

Kounter Kanter

Jul. 6, 2003, 12:47 PM

I am soooo sorry for you and for your mare. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif I don't have anything to offer- but Ditto on "southhillstables" (pg1) feeding suggestions and MTG for rainrot.
I do want to thank you for taking time to share this on COTH. People NEED to hear and see this! Are there other BB's for you to post on- Va horse news??

My horse takes care of the books.

vxf111

Jul. 6, 2003, 04:55 PM

Poor Eddie! She looks awful, but I am sure she'll perk up now that she's back home with you. Poor thing!

~Veronica

"The Son Dee Times"

Lord Helpus

Jul. 6, 2003, 07:00 PM

I often don't read threads like this because they get me SO upset... I am glad that your wonderful mare is home and on the road to recovery.

But I still worry for those other poor animals on her property. I know you have a lot on your plate right now, but I hope you have the time and mental energy to think of them and follow through on their rescue. They probably look as bad, if not worse (if they have been under her care for longer) than Eddie. People who are in a position to take them away from her need to be mobilized or these horses are going to start dying.

Your actions on their behalf may be their only chance at a future which is free from neglect and starvation.

I know they will thank you, because they are unable to rescue themselves.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I CAN spell, I just can't type and I am too blind to proofread InfoPop's teeny tiny font. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Foxhound

Jul. 7, 2003, 05:19 AM

If you do not get a response from the local police and animal control, you can call the state veterinarian.
In Virginia, that number is (804)786-2481.

------------------
Save a life, adopt a pet!

apps4me

Jul. 8, 2003, 06:29 PM

Hay There,
One of my friends told me about your horse and to look it up on the Chronicle. I really feel for your mare and happy she is back with you. I see that you were given several names of Horse Rescue league and I would recomend the one from Concord,VA., that is closer to Kenbridge. I am from Southside Va. and know [the farm owner]. I went to her place several years ago and looked at a couple of horses she had for sale and they looked fine. At that time she only had about 5 or 6 horses. I know she is not a collector, but a dealer in selling horses. I was not aware she was into providing retirement homes for horses. That seems against her nature unless there is a dollar to be made.My advise is to make sure all is documented, pictures of your mare before she left,medical records, and course of treatment now. Plus all copies of paper agreements,cancelled checks, etc. All phone records and make sure to read the fine print. Also, the police report. You must follow through with this and there is no time to spare. If she is still using the same vet when I went to see her, I have that information. I would persue in getting an attorney and course of action is not to delay. I wish you the best.

Apps 4 me,

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:26 PM.]

CoolMeadows

Jul. 8, 2003, 06:42 PM

Thanks to everyone for the advice, numbers and suggestions. I got some pix of Eddie today, I'll put them up tomorrow. Tonight I'm just too tired. She's still very rough.

The number for the state vet was helpful. The sheriff's department and local (Kenbridge) animal control have been less than helpful. Purina has shed some interesting information.
There are many legal things going on right now that I can't get into here.

Apps4me - 5 or 6 horses, it really must've been years ago!! Try 50 or 60 and none of them look like anything that would be easily sold at this point. I'm trying as fast as I can to get everything put together for a solid course of action, but I have to ask, why the big rush other than that I'm worried for the horses left there? Do you know something I don't? I'd like to hear from you... maybe you could PT or email me? Thanks.

maudeflanders

Jul. 10, 2003, 09:10 AM

Jingles for you and your mare-

can we set something up on COTH to help with vet and legal bills? it's unfair for you to have to cover all of that. http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/cry.gif

gwen

Jul. 10, 2003, 09:57 AM

THank GOD you got your wonderful horse back...What a sick Bit*H!!!!!!!!!!!! And the other horses that are still there...those poor animals..I can't wait to see "after" pictures...she's a beautiful girl, I can tell..let us know how she comes back...oh what i would do to that woman.......

**BARB***

CoolMeadows

Jul. 10, 2003, 10:04 AM

Maude - too sweet a suggestion! But I need to cover the costs, and go after her in court I think. I've gotten some legal advice... but thank you for the thought.

Here's a link to an update on Eddie, with pictures of her at one week:
Updated Eddie (http://chronicleforums.com/groupee/forums?a=tpc&s=6656094911&f=5206053911&m=41460335)

Whisper

Jul. 20, 2003, 08:41 PM

I am so glad she's home!

Stay me with coffee, comfort me with chocolate, for I am sick of love.

tailwinds

Jul. 22, 2003, 05:25 AM

CM Just curious, with such nice pastures at your house, why did you send your mare to someone else's? Did you have any problems maintaining weight before you sent her off? On the pregnant part did you breed her the previous summer? Why didn't you check on your beloved horse in 4 months away from you. I would have had to go see my horses and make sure they were being cared for to my satisfaction. Also, I have a TB that is hard to maintain weight, when I got him it took me a couple of months to bring his weight up. What are your feeding to put that kind of weight on in a week?

Lisamarie8

Jul. 22, 2003, 05:31 AM

Hey Tailwinds, Did you have a jackass sandwich for breakfast?

CoolMeadows

Jul. 22, 2003, 05:49 AM

Tailwinds, to answer your questions:

With such nice pastures at your house, why did you send your mare to someone else's?
Thanks for the compliment about the pastures, but the paddock you see her in is a little less than one acre. I have three turnouts and now have 8 horses here. I sent her because I need stall and turnout space for horses in training. Why should she live in a stall for 14+ hours a day when she's doing nothing? I've kept her at broodmare farms before without incident. I thought she'd be happier in a huge lush field with friends, shelter and feed.

Did you have any problems maintaining weight before you sent her off?
Nope. Ask my vet who saw her less than two weeks before she left. She's a BIG (17.1) Thoroughbred mare, so yes she requires a lot of calories. That was discussed with Donna Anderson, who claims to be knowledgeable in equine nutrition.

On the pregnant part did you breed her the previous summer?
She was bred the previous year, but an early ultrasound showed that she was reabsorbing.

Why didn't you check on your beloved horse in 4 months away from you.
Let's see, because whenever I spoke to Donna, Eddie was "fat and happy". Like I said, I've kept her at broodmare farms before and she's always been delighted and I don't have what I consider an ideal facility for broodmares. Also because I don't have time to make an 8 hour trip and leave all the other horses here, and miss lessons, and miss rides, and miss shows, especially when I'm being told that she's fine. I don't expect people to lie. I do have to make some money you know. Someone has to pay the bills and keep all of the horses fed, and Eddie's bills paid! I don't remember when I last had a day off. I don't mind 7 days a week, I've owned this farm for two years and I want to keep it, and I want to keep all the owners happy, and I thought I was providing for my mare as well, so don't come at me like that.

What are your feeding to put that kind of weight on in a week?
I think that Eddie's immediate plumping out had more to do with hydration than feed. She drank insane amounts of water the first few days. She's being fed 5lbs of Triple Crown 14% twice a day, beet pulp in the evening, three scoops of Weight Builder, probiotics, daily dewormer and free choice hay when she's in. She gets a lunch of 4lbs Triple Crown 14%, which she'll keep getting until she's more stable. I'm building her up to being out 24/7 (she most def. wasn't on grass from the reaction my grass gave her after being out on it for one hour the first day) and then will lease a big field with a run in across the road that just became available. She also had a massive worm infestation that we cleared up, so of course that helps.

tailwinds

Jul. 22, 2003, 06:42 AM

Cm - Sounds like you have a great feeding program. I didn't mean to come at you in any way. When I hear stories like this, it creates questions in my mind and I like to check them out. I don't just here rumors and believe everything on blind faith. Well since I have a full belly, (on my jackass sandwich) I think I'll take a ride to this ... Farm, with camera in hand and see for myself. I'll post the pictures for everyone to judge for themselves. I believe there are two sides to every story. I'm not taking any sides, and IF it is warrented, and horses need to be saved, I'll be the first to save as many as I can. I have 10 horses here of which 4 have been rescue cases. It's only 2 1/2 hours to get there, so maybe I can get back to everyone tonight. It's easy to sit around and bad mouth people, especially behind thier back when they can't defend themselves, It takes more than chatter on the internet, to get something done. I'll go see, you shouldn't have to go This alone IF something needs to be done.

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:26 PM.]

CoolMeadows

Jul. 22, 2003, 07:50 AM

Good for you Tailwinds. Make sure and get pictures of the chestnut Thoroughbred type with the blaze who's spine is showing!

There were some horses in not bad shape there. Animal control and the state vet have been notified and told everything. I don't know how long the ones that look adequate have been there. I don't know how long the ones that are emaciated have been there.

I do know that my mare scored a 1 on the body score chart, that I'm pressing charges of abuse and neglect, and that she did NOT go there in this condition, which can be verified by my vet!

So if you see any horses in adequate condition, please post away!! Are you implying that if there are some there who are being fed or who are in any way being cared for, that it's ok for [the farm owner] to have starved my horse???? Just curious...

Are you saying that I'm creating a rumour?? What are you implying? That I starved this horse myself or something?? Should I be pleased with the condition she's in?? I guess my vet had no reason to be furious either. What's your ... problem??

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:27 PM.]

CoolMeadows

Jul. 22, 2003, 08:03 AM

I should add that the amount that Eddie's now eating has been worked up to gradually and I didn't just start throwing the feed to her on day one.
She was also initially very dehydrated and literally attacked her salt/mineral block for the first two weeks.

kathi24

Jul. 22, 2003, 08:08 AM

Let us know what you see Tailwinds.
CM- I hope that something will come out of this aweful situation. When I bought my mare she was 150 lbs under weight. It's amazing how much they can gain in a short amount of time. I wish you and Eddie my best.

Love,
Kathi, Sail Away (Sally) and A Gift for Jenny (Joe)

Ash

Jul. 22, 2003, 08:36 AM

Jumping in here (I know I will be sorry) but are you saying Janice, that the pictures that CM posted are not of Eddie or Eddie's feet? Are you saying that this horse was not under [the farm owner's] care? (For the record I don't know [the farm owner] or CM) because unless that is the case, for her to have this horse in her care, in this condition, is unacceptable!

I don't care what arrangements were made by whom or who said what, but the long and short of it is, that horse (in the pictures) was neglected. For anyone to look at that horse day in and day out and DO NOTHING is a crime. Obviously the horse can hold weight, just look at the after pictures that were posted. Hey if you don't have the time to devote to a hard keeper, SEND THE HORSE HOME! How can someone who says they love animals, let a horse look like that???

I know a few people who have clients that owe them thousands of dollars for board. Guess what? They still feed the horse! They took the people to small claims court BUT THEY DIDN'T TAKE IT OUT ON THE HORSE!

I have no idea what is/was going on between these two people, but one thing is certain, Eddie is the one who paid the price. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_mad.gif

******************************
Momma Mia, here I go again....

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:44 PM.]

Czar

Jul. 22, 2003, 09:18 AM

Overthehillrider...Janice...whatever...that was completely uncalled for!! http://chronicleforums.com/images/custom_smilies/no.gif

I don't know the exact situation here but to come on to a public BB and say such nasty, immature things about someone just makes you look like a fool (even if they are true, which I don't believe they are).

CM...don't let this person get to you - I've been reading your posts and so glad to hear that your Eddie is doing better. http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

milk warts

Jul. 22, 2003, 10:14 AM

Jealous much, Janice? http://chronicleforums.com/groupee_common/emoticons/icon_rolleyes.gif

CM- Let whatever this b*tch says roll off your back. Anyone who knows you either personally or through your posting is aware that J's post is the absurd rantings of a disturbed person.

[This message was edited by Erin on Jul. 22, 2003 at 05:45 PM.]

Lauruffian

Jul. 22, 2003, 10:37 AM

Janice: Way to welcome yourself to the board. I think this is a prime example of "the more the words, the less the meaning."

All you've done is make Cool Meadows's case all the more clear and substantiated. Yup. You helped her.

Putz.

I used to think the world was against me. Now I know better...some of the smaller countries are neutral.

Erin

Jul. 22, 2003, 01:51 PM

WARNING

Do not use this thread to air personal issues that have nothing to do with the BB or the topic at hand. If you've got an issue with someone posting on this thread, don't drag the rest of us into it with you.

DO NOT make allegations of illegal behavior against named individuals. CoolMeadows, if you file charges against this person, THEN you can name them and provide specific information identifying the location of the farm. But not until you file charges.

I've deleted the post by Janice as well as the response by CM... obviously they have issues with each other, but that discussion absolutely does not belong here.

Estelle

Jul. 23, 2003, 05:28 AM

THILWINDS.....

I have never posted here, just found this site a couple of days ago and it's a great forum...I decided to join today so that i could respond to this post from tailwinds.

I really dont care if every horse on that farm is 100% fine, what she did to Edie or allowed to happen is just as wrong as if every horse on the property looked the way Edie did when she got picked up. NO horse gets into that state without complete neglect. She kept telling the owner the horse was fat and sassy, she was lying, that's pretty obvious.

You want to question the original poster on her objective, well I question yours...who are you? how do we know those pictures are even from that farm, because YOU say they are? Because YOU have a picture showing the possibly correct driveway? Who's to say that those other pictures are from the same farm..YOU? Who's to say the farm isnt yours or a friend's or relative's?? Who's to say that even if it is the correct farm that you intentionally didnt take pictures of the underweight horses and just snapped shots of the ones in good shape...the original poster SAID there were some there in good shape and some in not so good shape....

Her horse was not only emaciated when she got her back, but had rain rot sores, her feet were deplorable condtion...this horse was severly neglected..why? Who the He!! knows? How are we supposed to know what goes on in the mind of someone like that...

I can think of a million reasons why the owner of the farm would cover up what she did or let let happen, but I cant think of one as to why the original poster would starve her horse, let it get covered in sores and let her feet get so bad just so she could come on a board to wrongly accuse someone and press charges against her...get real tailwinds! I think we all know who is faking and lying here and it's not the original poster.

Blessed are we who can laugh at ourselves for we shall never cease to be amused.--Erin Mack

tle

Jul. 23, 2003, 05:38 AM

I'm not going to get into the "who's right" argument. I'm coming into this really late, but I wanted to point one thing out to Estelle, who is too new to know this.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>I can think of a million reasons why the owner of the farm would cover up what she did or let let happen, but I cant think of one as to why the original poster would starve her horse, let it get covered in sores and let her feet get so bad just so she could come on a board to wrongly accuse someone and press charges against her...get real tailwinds! I think we all know who is faking and lying here and it's not the original poster.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

You said you just signed on and didn't know about this BB sooner. Unfortunately, everything you said in this paragraph HAS happened here. A girl on this board asked for help over and over, said her horse was ill, that she couldn't find a vet, didn't know what to do, was doing everythign she could think of, etc. The horse died. Why? BECAUSE **SHE** STARVED HIM TO DEATH! Those of us who have been around this board for a while know the horrible story of a poster called Musical Jumper and what she did to her horse despite her constant pleas of "I'm doing everything".

Now, before I get jumped on, I am in no way, shape or form saying that CM is another MJ. I'm just bringing up the story to show a new member that on these boards you only hear 1 side of the story (usually) and sometimes what you can't think could possibly happen does (and when you "live" through that, you develop a natural curiosity to know more about a situation and to question it).

BTW, Estelle, welcome to the boards.

************
If Dressage is a Symphony... Eventing is Rock & Roll!!!

"All's well that ends with cute E.R. doctors, I always say." -- Buffy