Within a very short time we will be starting a new year. We all have plans and dreams and certainly expectations. Some of these plans are short-term daily goals that really are attainable because they are small and the results can be achieved quickly. I like the small ones best because they make me feel like I am making a difference.
I live on a farm and there are always “chores” to do. I also have 53 horses, so there are many chores to do every day. In case you’ve never read my articles before, let me introduce myself. My name is Karen Thurman and I operate a horse rescue/sanctuary that specializes in blind horses. These sightless horses can be dangerous and unpredictable. I have been caring for blind horses for over 20 years and really have learned as I went along what to do and what not to do with a horse that can’t see.
I receive many calls every week from people with a blind horse who are looking to “rehome” them. It’s always so sad to think about this unfortunate horse who is just wondering, “What’s going on?”
Sadly, I can’t take every horse and folks don’t want to feed a horse they can’t ride. Too many times, these horses go to slaughter, an unthinkable end to a one-time family pet who just happens to be blind. My best advice is to call the vet and have them humanely euthanized. Or keep them and love them. They really do adjust to a dark world and you will be paying them back for all the good times you had together before blindness took over.
So, back to hopes and dreams for the coming year. I long for a time when our animals are treasured and loved like they love us. I’ve been hearing too much talk about humane societies being over-full and not accepting any more cats and dogs. These poor animals are then being dumped out in the country to fend for themselves. Please don’t get an animal if you don’t plan on getting it spayed. Remember, if you’re not part of the solution, you are part of the problem!
Being kind is a simple enough goal for the new year. Let’s all practice kindness every day to every living thing. I believe we will all be rewarded for our efforts.
So, readers, enjoy the holidays! Be safe and happy and celebrate this beautiful world around us.
Sincerely and with love,
Karen Thurman • 270-777-3164 • Rainhill Equine Facility • 11125 Ky. Hwy. 185 • Bowling Green, KY 42101
