First Light Farm Equine Shelter - What's up?

2011-11-08T21:01:00.000-05:00

Blue Checks It Out

2011-11-07T17:28:00.000-05:00

Blue can't believe how the mud has disappeared since our paddocks were refurbished. Neither can we volunteers. It has been especially rainy this summer and fall. All of us, especially the horses, are ecstatic over the renovations which will keep feet and hooves alike clean and dry. Pushing a full wheelbarrow through ankle-deep mud is an arduous task, but the shelter runs on donations and it took some time to accumulate the necessary funds for such a large project. Just keeping up with the horses' care requires constant fund-raising and we are always scraping the bottom of the barrel. Sometimes we get a big donation though that allows us to make major improvements like this one. Happy day!

Poor Twilight....

2011-10-19T05:40:00.000-04:00

... she kissed a porcupine and DID'T like it.

Sunday morning we noticed Twilight was not herself, sporting something akin to a five o'clock shadow

OUCH!

Since she wouldn't let us anywhere near the quills, we called Dr. Newcomb who came out right away.

He gave our girls some happy stuff and he went to work.,

Soon, all the quills were out and Twilight was left napping -

Hopefully, Twi has learned her lesson!

Do you shop online? Then you can help FLFES!

2011-10-14T23:45:00.002-04:00

If you shop online, then you can help send much needed cash to First Light Farm Equine Shelter by simply shopping as usual. The only thing you need to do is shop through our portal at

www.marketamerica.com/firstlightfarm

Market America offers a special program for non-profits. All you have to do shop at one of the 4000 partner retailers. As long as you click through our Market America portal, you will be sending us cash each time you shop. And if you want, you can sign up to receive cash back too!

It's a little confusing at first, but it's worth it and it's a completely painless way to help us help the horses.

Here are the basics.

When you got to www.marketamerica.com/firstlightfarm you will see Market America products. These are GREAT products including household cleaners, skin care, nutraceuticals and more. We get bigger royalties on the Market America products, so take a look at what they have. All are "green" products, cruelty free and environmentally friendly.

But say you want to shop at Sears, or Lands End, JC Penneys or Horse.com --- then click on PARTNER STORES and browse through the over 4000 alphabetically listed stores. Simply click on the store you want and you will be re-directed to their website. In most cases you will see a dialog box that will ask for your email address. That's for the cash back program. Simply enter your email address and you've completed the EZ registration that allows you to earn cash back. Is it huge cash back? no, not really, but it does add up. And who would pass on free money?

Next you will see a box stating that you are leaving Market America and being redirected to the store's site. That's ok, your order will still send royalties to FLFES.

Once you have clicked through to your store, shop as usual. You won't see your cash back immediately, but it will come. I believe most of the retailers wait a period of time to make sure the order goes through properly. If you happen to by some Market America products, your cash back shows up immediately.

If you purchase a Market America brand product, you will receive a thank you for supporting FLFES. The other stores don't send an acknowledgement like that, but rest assured, you ARE earning money for the shelter.

We will let you know how the program works as soon as we start receiving our royalty checks.

Won't you give this a try? you have nothing to lose, and the shelter has a lot to gain!

Any questions? email 1stlightfarm@gmail.com

HAPPY SHOPPING & THANK YOU!

Stuart's Surgery

2011-09-29T18:24:00.001-04:00

Stuart is only half the man he used to be since Dr. Bill visited him earlier this week. The experience didn't keep him down for long, though, and he is none the worse for wear. He will probably be happier, too, now that all those big girls at the farm won't have the same appeal for him that they once did. Platonic relationships over the fences will be more calm, amiable, and better for everyone.

We need 10 more followers!~

2011-09-19T14:50:00.000-04:00

We need 10 more followers for our blog so we can give away the coffee mug! Please recommend our blog to a friend so we can get this contest over with!

Women's HANDS ON HORSES WORKSHOP

2011-09-19T14:24:00.000-04:00

We had a fabulous time on the weekend of Sept 17 & 18. Women's 40+ hands on horses workshop. Ok, so one of the "women" was only 12, but we overlooked that flaw... lol.

This workshop was developed to offer women who have always wanted to get up close and personal with horses but never had the chance, the opportunity to do so. It was also for women who haven't been around horses for a while - offering a chance to get that much needed "horse fix!"

We went over ground work basics, proper leading, round penning and control techniques; grooming and also got everyone back in the saddle. This was so much fun, and I think the ladies enjoyed themselves. We would love to offer this workshop again sometime!

Twilight Gets a Bath

2011-08-19T19:23:00.000-04:00

Twilight and Andrea are going to a clinic in New Hampshire this week-end. It has been so rainy and muddy at the farm that all the horses need a good grooming, but Twilight is first in line because of the trip. This day was finally warm and sunny. The hosing doesn't seem to bother her and she takes advantage of the situation by grabbing a few extra mouthfuls of grass. Twilight is a beautiful girl that has been tossed around so much that she has a permanent home now as a shelter horse.

Stuart

2011-08-09T19:44:00.001-04:00

He has a name, it is Stuart. He was a good sport at the open house and there are several pictures on facebook of him and various fans. His feet were in terrible shape when he arrived at the farm so today he had a pedicure by the farrier. It was tough on him all the way around, but he ought to feel a lot better once he recovers and finds out how comfortable he is with his well cared for feet.

Treasure Working the Kinks Out

2011-08-03T18:15:00.000-04:00

Donkey and Andrea Rehearsing for the Big Day

2011-08-03T18:11:00.000-04:00

New Addition

2011-08-01T20:11:00.000-04:00

Poco, Twilight, and Blue take a look at our latest acquisition, and he looks right back. He's a miniature donkey, as yet un-named because we are holding a name-the-donkey contest. The winner will be announced at the open house on August 7. I've never met a donkey before myself, and he is as cute as can be. BUT........the sound that comes out of that little thing is deafening. Luckily he doesn't seem to have a lot to say unless some horse activity arouses his interest. Blue, the dog, finds him quite obnoxious and ads to the ruckus by barking. Never a dull moment at the farm........

Getting Ready for the Open House

2011-07-27T18:19:00.000-04:00

The FLFES open house is coming up and we are all busy preparing for it. This mural on the door of the barn is going to be the backdrop for pictures of kids on the new donkey we are getting. It's not quite finished, but will be in another day. There will be hay rides and pony rides, yard sale, chinese auction, bake sale and more going on Sunday, the 7th of August. This is a big project and was so successful last year that we decided to make it an annual event.

Treasure

2011-07-16T13:58:00.000-04:00

Pretty girl......

Independence Day Parade - Dennys River

2011-07-10T14:41:00.001-04:00

The Staff and some of the horses of FLFES participated in the Dennys River Independence Day Parade on July 3rd. This is such a great parade because it's not huge and hectic. The horses don't get stressed or wound up. The spectators are kind, appreciative and respectful of the horses.

This is Rachelle and BJ with Zippy. Zippy is checking out the quality of the hay. He says, "superb!" That is definitely something Zip would say!

Vicki is chatting with Dakota and Randa who helped raise funds along the route with our donation can! Hard workers!

Here's the view from Zip's back. That's Kayla on Cowboy and Leslie riding Twilight. That's Zip's hat in the foreground! He is such a good sport.

Here's the gang: Rachelle, Tina, Zip & BJ, Cowboy & Kayla, Elizabeth, Leslie and Twilight, Dakota, Vicki and Randa.

Our OFFISHUL POOPER SCOOPER. There were five horses total, so she was reasonably busy. However, she couldn't do much to help when Twilight needed to do Number 1.

Twilight and Leslie. Twilight had a bit of a moment, when the parade turned to the right far ahead of her, and she could see bodies, people, cars, floats moving from the distance. She wasn't quite sure what to make of what she was seeing and balked a bit. But Leslie held her in, let her process what she was seeing and then all was well again.

When the parade was over, we were approached by some the crew from the USS Nitske who had been marching in the parade. They met the staff and horses, and a couple of sailors even got "pony rides!"

Our group even won second prize and we were presented with a check by the parade committee. THANK YOU JUDGES. The money will go to help the shelter horses!

We had such fun and can't wait to participate again next year!

Cowboy Finds a New Home

2011-06-25T18:36:00.002-04:00

Kayla and her mother Leslie have been volunteering at the farm for quite some time. Yesterday Kayla took Cowboy home. She has been riding him and falling in love with him for months. Andrea, on the right, drove Cowboy to his new home and posed for this good-bye picture. This is the greatest reward we have, seeing one of our rescues find a home where they will be loved and cared for, and helping make a young girl's dream come true.

Small Helper

2011-06-25T18:32:00.000-04:00

Quinn, age four, visited the farm with his parents and wanted to help with the chores. Here he is filling Twilight's water bucket.

Fly Masks Make a Fashion Statement

2011-06-10T19:10:00.000-04:00

Twilight and Cowboy smile for the camera. Abby and Zippy seem a little bored.

ME on Twilight

2011-06-09T14:22:00.000-04:00

Can't resist posting this great picture that Grace took of me and Twilight yesterday. The weather has been really great lately and the farm is buzzing with activity. Our trailer died, so we have to stick to home, but we're trying to find a generous soul to help get another one. We are always struggling financially...horses are expensive to feed and care for!

Nevertheless, life goes on at FLFES, and as Twilight and both I show, no one is starving..

She's Exuberant!

2011-06-07T06:11:00.000-04:00

Abby has been settling in nicely. She's such a sweetie. The people at her last home told us that she'd been saddled and back once or twice, so we decided to give it a try. We think she looks stunning in her black english tack, don't you agree?

She did very well, stood for mounting and walked off nicely. We didn't ask for much since she's still regaining strength and weight. We just strode around the round pen for a bit and backed a few steps. She was very agreeable, though not a fan of that full cheek snaffle. We will find something that suits her better.

The sun Finally came out today!!

2011-05-30T20:35:00.000-04:00

Wow, it seems like forever since the sun has shined down upon the farm. After we got morning chores out of the way, it was time for a long-overdue ride.

This is Hailey riding Pocomoonshine. Hailley is the daughter of volunteer, Renee.

This is Vicki, riding Pocomoonshine.

This is Tina and Poco. Tina's been on a horse maybe 3 times. This was her first ever canter. She did GREAT!

BJ putting Zip through his paces.

Twilight! So pretty!

BJ & Twilight.

Andrea and Twilight

We are hoping that Spring has finally arrived..... just in time for Summer!

Pasture Fencing

2011-05-28T23:07:00.000-04:00

Renee, Amy, Tina and Andrea worked on fences today. The horses have been eager to get out on the pasture, but we need to make sure we manage it properly so that the pastures will last for the summer. That means section off pieces so other parts can "rest" and recuperate.

First we dug the post holes...

Then, Nay and I watched while Tina did all the work.

Then we carefully and scientifically calculated placement of the fiberglass posts (11 steps with Nay's boots or 12 with Tina's)

I told Nay, Tina and Amy (who was the photographer for the day and that's why you can't see her cuz she was behind the camera) that it "shouldn't take longer than a half hour.

Approximately two hours later, we were done!

Abby

2011-05-21T19:28:00.001-04:00

The new girl is looking good. She's still in quarantine, but due to join the herd soon. She seems to be getting healthier every day, eating and drinking well. She has had penicillin for ten days, which has taken down her temperature and stopped her runny nose. This is the first day she went out without her blanket. It's been unseasonably cold and rainy. Andrea has researched her past and discovered that she had been trained for harness racing but raced only once. After that her owners kept her as a pet, well-loved and cared for for many years. When her owners had to give her up because of health and other considerations, they found what they thought was a wonderful place for her. Without their knowledge the new place had problems that ended in foreclosure and neglect of the horses there. We don't know the whole story, but Abby was eventually surrendered to the Maine Animal Welfare program and ultimately placed with us.

This girl is a real doll. We all love her. She's starting to show her real personality, which is not as docile as we originally thought. She knows her own mind. There's not a mean bone in her body, though, and we're sure she will become a wonderful pleasure horse.

Clinic

2011-05-14T19:21:00.000-04:00

Today Chris Lomnard gave a clinic at the farm on ground work. There were seven of the volunteers participating and several more observing. It was a great opportunity to get some expert advice on handling these shelter horses to build trust and confidence. He emphasized being relaxed, understanding that the horse is frightened and reacting to prior experiences with humans that have been unpleasant or abusive. Understanding and communication between horse and human is the key to safety for both. It was a great experience and valuable training for us. Hooray for FLFES..........

Our new girl Abby

2011-05-11T14:48:00.002-04:00

Abby is a 12 year old standardbred mare who arrived Saturday. She was exhausted, had a temperature, and looked very sick. Now with TLC and medication she is eating hay and settling in. We are all looking forward to seeing those ribs disappear under a healthy layer of fat. She is really beautiful and has a great temperament and everyone loves her. She was actually rescued from a rescue shelter.........unbelievable.

Doone's Good Deed

2011-05-06T06:05:00.000-04:00

These aren't the greatest of pictures, but we did want to share with you about our Delia's progress in her new home. She is under contract for adoption and still "on trial" - But all indicators say this is a match made in heaven. The adopter, Lorna Konyak was never a fan of mares, and after losing her beloved Bono in 2008, followed by the loss of Comet in 2009, was looking desperately for a horse who could fill the big shoes left behind by these too wonderful geldings.

We finally convinced her to at least look at Delia, who is not a very "marish" mare at all!

So, now Lorna has Delia at a training stable in Columbia owned and operated by Leslie Howe. They are making wonderful progress toward Delia's new job - WP. Lorna has chosen the name of Doone's Good Deed, hoping to change her registration papers to that since her registration papers list her as "Unnamed!" Lorna is still "trying on" barn names.

Riding at the Farm

2011-05-03T18:08:00.004-04:00

One of the perks of volunteering at the farm is the opportunity to ride. The horses need the work, but we call it fun. Here's Zippy and Cowboy getting a workout. And yes, we are working on getting that head down on Cowboy. Kayla is definitely making progress! Cowboy is learning to give to the bit and soften.

Win a $500 Scholarship to Greenland Point Center Adventure Camp

2011-04-26T09:27:00.000-04:00

Greenland Point Center in Princeton, Maine had generously donated a $500 scholarship to any of their camps for the 2011. We are raffling off chances for $3 per ticket, or two for $5. This is a great place for kids and adults, many programs to choose from. Please check them out at Greenland Point Center.

FLFES will be participating in one of their camps this summer. Click here for more information.

If you would like to purchase a raffle ticket, please e-mail 1stlightfarm@gmail.com or send payment via paypal to that email account. The drawing will be held on May 7 at the saddle fitting clinic/tack sale.

Good Luck!

Saddle Fitting and Tack Sale

2011-04-25T08:45:00.001-04:00

There will be a Saddle Fitting Clinic on May 7 at the home of Rick & Janice Bronson, Rte 189 Whiting, ME. The clinic is being hosted by the DEBRSC and is being conducted by Deb McKay from KD Stable in Lee. There is no charge for the clinic, but donations are being accepted for First Light Farm Equine Shelter.
Even if you don't bring your own horse, you can learn a great deal about proper saddle fit and why it is so very important.

FLFES will also be holding a used tack sale. All proceeds will go to help care for the horses at the shelter.
We are gratefully accepting donations for the tack sale. If you can donate, please e-mail 1stlightfarm@gmail.com or call 207-952-0325

Belle goes HOME!

2011-04-24T08:22:00.000-04:00

We delivered Belle to Yellow Birch Farm in Pembroke on Saturday. I will tell you, horses know stuff! Belle nearly jumped into the trailer when BJ brought her to the ramp. She loaded up easily and was even impatient when we were getting her all settled, and the doors secured. She hauled like a pro and unloaded easily.

She was very eager to get to her new turnout where some short sprouts of spring grass were waiting for her.

It was if she said,,,, ahhhh! Finally, I am HOME!!

Thanks to Vicki Brown for the pictures!

Zippy Rolls and Runs

2011-04-23T10:43:00.002-04:00

The weather didn't know what to do and neither did Zippy. It rained, then snowed. Then the sun came out. Then there was hail and sleet. Then the sun again. We volunteers were kept busy moving the horses in and out of the barn as the weather changed. Most took it all in stride (pun intended), but Zippy is our resident neurotic and couldn't handle it. He ran and ran along the fence each time he was put out, then paced in his stall when inside the barn. We just couldn't make him feel better. Eventually, though, he pretty much ran himself out and settled down with some extra hay to soothe his nerves.

Cowboy Takes a Nap

2011-04-19T10:11:00.002-04:00

Now that it's Spring, the days are warmer and everyone is feeling mellow (comparatively speaking). Here Cowboy decides to relax while Belle keeps her distance in the background. It seems lonely without Delia, but she has a great chance at a wonderful new home. Despite my attachment to her, I hope it works out for her. Unless I could adopt her myself, I have to let her go, and this would be a perfect place for her.

Congratulations Lorna and Delia!

2011-04-18T06:04:00.000-04:00

Our beautiful girl, Delia, has gone to her new home (on trial basis). Lorna Konyak is the manager at the Ark Animal Shelter in Cherryfield and Delia and she will get to know each other of the next several weeks. We are hoping this turns into a permanent relationship. Sorry for the blurry picture!

We had a great turnout at the Spaghetti Supper & Raffle

2011-04-18T05:58:00.000-04:00

What a tremendous turnout for our fundraiser last weekend. We netted over $1000 for the shelter. This will help pay for hay over the next month as we eagerly await the pastures to grow in, as well as go toward spring vaccinations.

Delicious spaghetti, sauce and meatballs, made by our Board member, Roland Botelho (aka Chef Rolando!) - sumptuous salads, decadent desserts. We had over 40 items for the raffle. I couldn't fit both tables in the picture!

Many thanks to our volunteers. Here's the kitchen crew, Elizabeth & Roland Botelho, and Kayla Robinson.

The line was steady, but moved quickly....

We are always deeply gratified to see the outpouring of support from the community members. Many of our supporters are not necessarily "horse people," but still concerned about the welfare of neglect, abused or abandoned animals. We are all facing tough economic times, and struggling daily to meet our our own families' needs. It's truly amazing to see so many dig down deep into their pockets and offer what they can. Thanks again to all who donated food and raffle items, who donated their time and talents, and those who attended!

Spring Cleaning

2011-04-08T19:49:00.000-04:00

In Spring, where there are horses, there is mud. Horses walk in it and roll in it. People sink into it and fall down in it. There is no way to avoid it, but we try to keep up with grooming so that everybody stays as clean and dry as possible. Here Belle is getting her feet cleaned after a good grooming (you can see the hair all over the floor) by her new owners, Giles and Ian with their mother looking on. These little boys are just a joy to watch as they take charge of this huge docile mare. On the other hand, Poco and Domino don't seem to care how dirty they are as long as they have their hay. Springtime is not a good look for a white horse who likes to roll............

Miriah's Day at the Spa

2011-04-06T18:19:00.000-04:00

Today Miriah got the royal treatment. Four volunteers brushed her, cleaned her feet, brushed her some more, used the shedder to remove as much of her winter coat as possible, brushed her some more. Our youngest volunteer braided her mane. Through the whole process, Miriah stood quietly and enjoyed all the attention. I'm sure she felt like the belle of the ball when she went back out to the pasture. The day was beautiful and getting warm now that it's April. It was sunny, the horses were all content. Even the remains of the mud dampened no one's spirits.

NOTE: MIRIAH is available for adoption as a companion only. She has very good ground manners and (obviously) loves to be groomed and fussed over) -Her adoption fee will be waived to a perfect home. If you're interested please e-mail 1stlightfarm@gmail.com.

Busy weekend

2011-04-03T21:41:00.000-04:00

Busy weekend here at the farm. Got some time in the saddle, and had a lot of visitors, including some new recruits (volunteers) as well as a potential adopter for Delia.

We are gearing up for spring and summer, with lots of activities planned, including the spaghetti dinner on the 16th. Two volunteers, BJ on Zippy, and Vicki on her horse Shaq, are going to participate in a two-day clinic in Wesley with the Down East Border Riders Saddle Club on April 30-May 1. On May 7th the DEBRSC will hold a free saddle fitting clinic in Whiting, with donations going to FLFES. We will also be holding a used tack sale during this event.
June 25 & 26 we will have our Women's 40+ Hands On the Horse clinic for ladies who have never had the opportunity to get up close and personal with horses, or for women who have been "out of horses" for a while and would like to get reacquainted. July 17-21, we will be working with Greenland Point Center Adventure Camp. In early August look for news about our Open House.

Cowboy

2011-04-02T18:30:00.000-04:00

This is one of the horses we have for adoption at the shelter. He's watching Anna's riding lesson the other day with some interest. Cowboy is a wonderful boy, very well mannered and knows his stuff.

Spring Snow

2011-04-02T17:19:00.000-04:00

It was slushy, sloggy and sloppy, but the warm temperature had us eager to get back in the saddle today! We finished chores and then played a little. As you can see, we didn't spend a lot of time on grooming!

Spaghetti Supper

2011-04-01T12:19:00.000-04:00

WIN A PAIR OF HIGHLY PRIZED FLFES COFFEE MUGS

2011-04-01T06:38:00.000-04:00

Please FOLLOW our Blog (there's a place to click somewhere further down on this page) - The first 50 people who sign up to FOLLOW our Blog will be entered into a raffle to win a

PAIR OF OUR SWELL COFFEE MUGS!!!!

Birthday Present for Anna

2011-03-31T19:15:00.000-04:00

Anna, 7 years old as of yesterday, gets her first riding lesson from Grace as a birthday present. She is the daughter of Amy, one of the morning crew, and her husband Tim. Poco was an exemplary host and Anna enjoyed every minute.There were quite a few visitors at the farm today, including Belle's new family. The two boys Giles and Ian are a sight to behold with Belle in tow. She is so gentle and seems to care for them so much that they have no fear, and justifiably so. There is something very poetic about watching them together, two little boys and this gigantic percheron mare.

It's Been Awhile

2011-03-31T09:54:00.000-04:00

It's been some time since I have posted, and I can say one thing about life on the farm during the winter....it's hard. The farm is full to capacity. We have had an unusually snowy winter, which has added a lot of extra work like shoveling and blanketing horses. It also means frozen poop and icy walking.......well, you get the picture. It means ending your shift soaked to the bone and bone-tired. As a relatively new volunteer, I am amazed at the dedication of the staff, and even more, their good humor. Nothing keeps us down. We are the perennial "whistle while you work" crew. I've posted a picture here of one of the volunteers doing what we all love best.........

Belle has been adopted!! - (entry by Andrea)

2011-03-31T05:51:00.000-04:00

Our Belle, yes the one and only who was literally seconds from being euthanized, has been adopted.

Last October, Belle had a major esophageal choke. For nearly 24 hours, Belle could neither eat nor drink. The vet tried tubing her several times, to no avail. We reached the decision that the only humane thing would be to euthanize her. We had the backhoe here, we had the hole dug and we were just waiting for the vet to return with his syringe of "pink stuff." Volunteers came to say their goodbyes. Then we noticed that she'd consumed a little water. We took a few hands full of grass to her and she ate them, tentatively at first, then with more enthusiasm.

Dr. Newcomb arrived and we pointed out that Belle was now able to swallow. Dr. Newcomb was only slightly encouraged because he felt that she had something "going on" inside. He'd tubed her several times over but each time the blockage would "reappear." We were convinced there was something more sinister than a wad of jammed food.

After a quick conference amongst mainstay volunteers Nay, Amy, and me (Andrea) it was decided to give Belle one more chance, with Dr. Newk's blessing. The worst thing that could happen was that she'd choke again - but the next time, no heroics, we would put her down quickly.

Well, here we are, nearly April, Belle is still hanging around. We soak her grain completely before feeding and she will never ever get another bite of hay stretcher on our watch!

Now, we are thrilled to announce that a family in Pembroke, Gretchen Gordan and her two sons, Giles and Ian, will be taking Belle home sometime later this month. Belle loves the pampering, and this family is tickled to be able to work with a mare as kind, gentle and patient as our Belle!

Belle and Gretchen getting acquainted.

Gretchen works on her round penning technique

(lunge whip goes in the driving hand, Gretchen! LOL)

Gretchen regains her confidence, via Belle's gentle way.

Ian's riding like he's done it all his life~

Ahhhh - being treated like a pampered princess! This is going to be a good gig, Belle!

Giles doing BACK FEET! Quite a feat (pun intended) for an 8 year old boy and a 1600 lb draft animal!

~~~CONGRATULATIONS BELLE AND GORDON FAMILY ~~~~

American Girl

2011-01-31T20:36:00.000-05:00

This is Treasure in her new patriotic blanket. More snow is expected tomorrow.......enough!

Playing in the Snow

2011-01-30T16:40:00.000-05:00

The weather has been just terrible over the last few weeks. We have had to work very hard to keep up with the work at the farm, especially the morning crew. It's very difficult to clean up, feed, water, blanket, and move the horses around when the temperature is below zero. Nevertheless, Treasure, Ivy, and Delia find this weather invigorating. They have plenty of pent-up energy, too, and after the temperature rose into the teens there was no stopping them. It's a beautiful sight to see them having such a good time.

Ivy is the newest arrival, a pony who is blind in one eye. She is not available for adoption, but is just visiting. She seems to be making herself at home, though, and joining in the fun.

Help us win a Grant! Bangor Savings -Community Matters more ~~

2011-01-27T16:20:00.000-05:00

Bangor Savings Bank is going to distribute $100,000 to 68 different Maine NON-PROFITS, but they want your input on how to do so.

You can VOTE for First Light Farm Equine Shelter between January 24 through March 7.
(NOTE - YOU MUST BE A MAINE RESIDENT TO VOTE)

Simply go to:

http://www.bangor.com/Why-Bangor-Savings/Supporting-Our-Communities/Community-Matters-More.aspx

or you can download a ballot at

http://www.bangor.com/uploadedFiles/Bangor_com/content/Utility/PDFs/2011CMMBallot.pdf
NOTE- online voting has been quirky - please download, print out, fill in, and mail your ballot if you have trouble with the online ballot. Thank you!

Either way, you will need to WRITE IN your VOTE for FLFES, as we are not on the ballot. Go to the DOWNEAST region and check off OTHER - then write in First Light Farm Equine shelter.

FLFES is a 501(c)3 non profit organization and eligible for this program.

Please help us help the horses!

THANK YOU!!!!

Snow Day Helper

2011-01-13T14:02:00.000-05:00

Anna, who was out of school because of a coming storm, got to come to the shelter instead and was put to work. Poco was happy to meet her, and an immediate bond was formed. There's no denying chemistry, and there's no doubt the two were made for one another

Santa Visits the Farm

2010-12-26T14:17:00.000-05:00

Belle Knows How to Have Fun

2010-12-17T21:05:00.000-05:00

...........and so does Andrea. A sled and a harness made of scraps is all it takes to turn a winter storm into a party. And this is the horse who had three of her four feet in the grave so recently.

New Home

2010-11-26T18:29:00.000-05:00

Here's Lilly with her adoptive mom. There have been quite a few comings and goings at the farm since I last posted, but all of that shuffling has actually resulted in little change so far. There is a lot pending, though, and Najih will definitely be leaving this week-end. I saw him for the last time today, and wished him the best. It looked for awhile like Belle had found a new home, but as sometimes happens, the deal fell through. Beloved Belle is still with us, and we are glad that the perspective owner had the good sense to call things off before the adoption took place. Everybody who takes a horse must sign a contract to return it if it doesn't work out, but a lot of trouble and disruption for Belle was avoided by realizing it was a mismatch before it happened.

This has been the rainiest Fall I can remember and there is mud everywhere. The ground is so soft and spongy that it's hard for humans to walk around without getting stuck. The horses don't like it much either, and everyone looks a little disheveled. This picture of Lilly was taken on the only sunny day we've seen in quite awhile, and she certainly looks glad to be home.

Come Rain or Shine

2010-11-08T19:03:00.000-05:00

No matter what the weather, horses have to eat. Andrea throws hay from the loft to be stacked in the barn for the next day's rations.

The Insiders

2010-11-08T18:54:00.000-05:00

It has been raining for so long that it's hard to remember anything else. Mud is everywhere. It's cold, and it's dreary. During bad weather, the horses who are in the best shape stay outdoors, with their walk-in sheds available at will. The more delicate horses stay in the barn, sometimes complaining about their confinement and sometimes accepting it. Tempers can flare at the drop of a hat, and a friend one day is an enemy the next. These relationships have to be watched carefully and adjustments made to accommodate changing moods. On the day I took these pictures, Lilly, Mariah, Teddy, and Belle were getting along well, watching me with interest as I worked around the barn. Today Treasure, Delia, and Zippy were inside, Lilly had gone to a foster home, Teddy had been adopted, Mariah had been banned from the barn for over-zealous kicking (leaving two hoof-sized holes in the back of her stall), and Belle had taken a liking to Najih so the two of them were happily together in one of the outside sheds. A lot can happen two days.

Halloween

2010-11-01T10:05:00.000-04:00

Here's one of the volunteers dressed up for the hayride.....spooky.

Things Happening

2010-10-31T20:46:00.000-04:00

So much has happened in the last few days that it's hard to know where to start. Since it's halloween, I guess that should be first. Everyone has been working for months to get ready for the hay ride the shelter put on as a fund raiser (as well as a fun raiser). It was to be Friday and Saturday nights and all was at the ready. What no one planned for was the fact that it has rained off and on for weeks, making the ground very soft and muddy. Consequently, the tractor wasn't able to pull the hay wagon up the hill and everything had to be called off. It was a terrible disappointment, but the volunteers rallied for the next night. Another location was found, and it was a great success. More than two hundred people participated and apparently a great time was had by all. I am not a social enough person to participate in something like that, but in some ways I wish I had been there to share the success. It must have been overwhelmingly satisfying to overcome the difficulties and bring the whole thing off. Reading about the event step by step on Facebook, I cheered them on and waited anxiously for each bit of news. I don't know the other volunteers, but I was filled with admiration and amazement for what they did, how they rose to the occasion and persevered. I'm so proud of them.

Other happenings have to do with adoptions. Just as winter is apon us (it snowed today for the first time) several of the horses are finding new homes. It will help to pare down for the coming months since caring for so many horses in bad weather is exhausting and time-consuming. Our cute boy Buddy, who was renamed Teddy, is leaving within the next week or so. He won the heart of his future forever owner and she fell in love with him at first meeting. Najih also has a new home and will be leaving as soon as his new barn is ready. There are people seriously interested in both Mariah and Belle, and there's a possibility of a home for Lilly. This is wonderful news for everyone, but I will hate to see them go. I thought Mariah would be around forever and was glad for it. She is to my eye the most beautiful horse there, and has a really winning personality. Apparently, though, her new owners, if they take her, will provide her with great retirement years where she has nothing to do but eat grass and look pretty. It's an ideal situation for her. Nevertheless, I haven't got used to saying good-bye yet, and I don't want her to go....

New Pony

2010-10-25T19:36:00.000-04:00

This is Buddy, the cutest pony ever. He arrived yesterday, along with another pony who is being fostered elsewhere for the time being. Apparently they came from the same place as Belle. The pictures I took do not do him justice, but he is a gorgeous boy with lots of spunk and energy. Everyone thinks he must have some show experience because he has so obviously been trained to perform.

Lazarus Belle

2010-10-14T10:48:00.000-04:00

It is a terrible coincidence that I just wrote so glowingly of our Percheron, Belle. The same night she choked and could not get over it. The vet was called twice that evening and tried to dislodge the obstruction without success. Over night she did not improve, and in fact kept getting worse. When the vet arrived in the morning, it looked as if Belle would have to be euthanized. Arrangements were made to put her down and a hole dug to bury her in. The vet returned to put her down. Then Belle evidently decided that life was worth living after all and began to eat and drink. Everyone in attendance agreed that she should be given a reprieve to see how she does, though the vet suspects a tumor or other obstruction that will cause her to choke again. If that happens, she will have to be put to sleep.

Everyone at the shelter was put through an emotional wringer that left them glassy-eyed and exhausted. Even I, who did not witness any of this, spent the day in tears, eagerly awaiting each facebook update. I have to believe that Belle somehow was buoyed up by the love that surrounded her. I doubt that she ever had experienced the tender feelings and prayerful thoughts of the people in her life. I like to think that all of us gave her the strength and reason to survive.

Now we are left with a happy and complacent horse, but a staggering pile of vet bills. A lot of donation money is needed to get through this crisis. It's too bad to have to put a price on saving a horse's life, yet that's what the shelter is all about.

Belle Today

2010-10-11T18:33:00.000-04:00

What a difference in Belle since she came to the shelter. She barely looks like the same horse. She's always had a great temperament, but now she is a pretty girl as well.......and a happy one. The pasture is pretty well used up at this point, but she's foraging for the few remaining edible morsels. She's a big horse and needs a lot of fuel to keep her going as she gains weight little by little. The words "gentle giant" were never more appropriate.

A big load of hay just arrived. Even though they have had hay all summer, the horses need more and more as the weather turns colder. It's amazing how much hay eight horses go through........and as one who cleans up after them, "go through" says it all. It's strange, though, that people who love horses don't mind their poop at all.......whereas no matter how much you love your dog or cat, their poop still stinks.

Here's Treasure(and Najih and Delia)

2010-10-07T19:56:00.000-04:00

I finally got to meet the latest arrival, a Standardbred mare named Treasure. She is still settling in, deciding which of the other horses are friend or foe. She's not thrilled with the human population around her yet, though that is changing as she feels more comfortable. Not knowing her reputation, I walked up to her in the pasture, took her picture, gave her a pat, and walked away without incident. While I was there I couldn't help but take pictures of Najih and Delia, too. They are just too beautiful............

It is rumored that Najih may be getting a new home. Somebody is one lucky person. I heard that news with mixed feelings.......why can't I have them all for myself?

That Was Fast!

2010-10-03T09:31:00.000-04:00

No sooner did Tootsie and Lilly settle into their temporary home than they were adopted. These girls had come from a nice environment and needed no rehabilitation. They were ready for permanent homes already, and new owners stepped up to the plate. It is wonderful to know these lovely mares won't have to wait.

To ad to the good news, Petey has also been adopted. He's come a long way since his arrival, acquired some manners, experience, and skills (like being ridden without having to follow another horse). We have all come to love him and will be sad to see him go, but he deserves to have his own person. He is a beautiful little thing and his new owner is lucky to have him.

Things never stand still at First Light Farm, and a Standardbred mare is on her way. I don't have her story yet, but will learn more tomorrow.......and take some pictures.

Thank heaven for the wonderful people who come to rescue a horse in need rather than look in the classifieds!

New Arrivals

2010-09-24T19:39:00.000-04:00

Here's Lily and Tootsie, respectively. They arrived at the shelter today. They are being given up for adoption only because their owner didn't have the time and means to care for them the way she felt she should. Both are gorgeous, healthy and well-socialized. I arrived just after they did and found them calmly eating hay in their new surroundings. I don't know much about them yet, but it's obvious they have been loved and well cared for.

More news about them later

Two New Riders

2010-09-24T19:27:00.000-04:00

I have been trying to get up the courage to get on a horse again after ten years or so, but so far was still hanging back. When suddenly confronted yesterday, I was caught up in the moment, overcame my reluctance, and presently found myself on Poco. Amber(top), the 17-year-old novice who sometimes volunteers when I do, didn't hesitate to climb aboard Belle and her fearlessness snapped me out of my old-lady reluctance.

There's no way to describe the euphoria I felt at being back on a horse. It is Andrea's intention that we all spend time riding in order to give the horses some exercise to keep them in condition. How lucky I am to have this opportunity. I was so sure that my life with horses was over. I feel as if I have been given the most wonderful unexpected gift to be part of this place.

Weekend Stuff -

2010-09-19T17:06:00.000-04:00

We have a great weekend here! Andrea & Grace, along with Stef & her husband Trey, went out for a short trail ride on Saturday afternoon. Andrea rode Najih, Grace on her horse Pocomoonshine, Stef rode Miriah and Trey rode Belle. We don't have a lot of trails around her. We have a nice hay field across the street with a gorgeous view of Passamaquoddy Bay. We skirted the edge of this field and then came back out on the road. Then back through a neighbor's field to a short trail that leads out to a ledge that overlooks the bay. Very pretty!

The horses were all well behaved. Belle was AWESOME. She took the lead and never spooked or balked. Najih was next, feeling the need to ride right up Belle's backside! He spooked only once and it was nothing too big - he is overall a very laid back horse and didn't mind the traffic or the woods. Then came Poco with Miriah in the rear seeing as she was being a bit grumpy. Once Miriah realized we were doing something other than ring work, she was much happier. We just mostly walked since all the horses (as well as the riders) are quite out of shape.

Earlier in the day Amber got to have a riding lesson on Zippy. Eventually we would like Amber to be able to help with exercising the horses. She is a great volunteer and will be getting a few more lessons before she's ready to start working the shelter horses.

On Sunday, new volunteer Jenna Flewelling came early in the morning to help with feeding and cleaning. Then she and Andrea worked with Pete. Petey is a great pony, but is very fearful when not being led or ridden behind another horse. Jenna is going to continue working with Pete. Eventually he's going to make some kid a real nice friend!

Belle on the trail

2010-09-16T09:53:00.000-04:00

This picture came from the Facebook page where the pictures are very small. Nevertheless, the idea is that the percheron Belle got to carry a couple of passengers and was a perfect lady. In fact, one of the volunteers who has never been on a horse got up the courage to make her maiden voyage on Belle. I wasn't there, but it sure looks like a great time was had by all. Belle took everything in stride....a girl who isn't ruffled by anything.

Preparations are moving forward for the big Halloween party, but so far no one has been found to donate the hay wagon for the evening. We have the land, we have the ghouls, we have the treats, we have the horses....now all we need is the wagon so they can all be enjoyed by the fun-seeking public.

Tea Party!

2010-09-14T17:02:00.000-04:00

We had a Tea Party at the farm today!

Renee, Amy and Darylann had sent invitations out to some people to "join' us for the tea party. However, we didn't want them to come all the way out here just to drink tea. So the crew included a tea bag with each invitation and "invited" the attendees to have their own tea party, save themselves the gas and send a $5 "admission/donation" back to the shelter.

We will be doing another "Virtual Tea Party" soon. If you would like to receive an invitation, please let us know!

Snack Time

2010-09-13T19:36:00.000-04:00

The weather is getting cooler with a promise of Fall, and then Winter. Nevertheless there's still some green grass here and there if a horse knows where to look. Left to right, Petey, Najih, Delia, Belle, and Domino take advantage of the availability of what will soon be covered in snow. All the horses in the background are shelter horses, whereas Domino is Andrea's horse living out her years of retirement in comfort. I am quite taken with her .....I've always been partial to Paints, and she is a beauty.

Two more horses are arriving this weekend, which will make quite a crowd. Hopefully some of the ones who are ready will be adopted soon. A big Halloween fundraiser is in the works to help support the shelter. As plans are finalized, I'll post them here. From what I've heard, it's going to be a big bash with hay rides and plenty of scary creatures lurking in the shadows. I am a grouch myself about such things and will only participate behind the scenes, but everybody else is full of fun ideas for kids and adults both.

Delia-Diana and Petey Take a Ride

2010-09-12T14:20:00.000-04:00

Delia and Petey got to go to a clinic on Saturday in Pembroke. The change was fun for them and the experience broadened their horizons.

Rainy Day at the Farm

2010-09-10T19:32:00.000-04:00

Some horses have all the luck. Belle, Zippy, and Mariah got to stay in the big barn while it rained, while the others were free to come and go in the smaller sheds. Sad to say, at least two of the three didn't really appreciate their good fortune. Possibly they heard the others cavorting around at will outside. Zippy is happy to stay inside where his creature comforts can be more easily met.

This is the second day in a row that rain has pelted the area. Needless to say I came home looking as if I had just stepped out of the shower while all four-legged creatures remained as dry as the proverbial bone. If they could contemplate it, and remember their past lives, they must think they have gone to heaven........a place where horses and dogs and cats are waited on hand and foot by humans with no other desire but to see them happy and comfortable.

Ready to Go

2010-09-06T18:24:00.000-04:00

These are the three horses at the shelter that are ready for adoption. At the top is Pistol Pete (Petey), an adorable part hackney pony, perhaps 12 hands high. Right from the beginning he won the hearts of everybody......cute, affectionate, and well-behaved. He can be a little willfull and is not a good match for a very young child. He needs a fairly confident rider who can remind him to mind his manners, but he responds well to direction. He has been helpful in publicizing the shelter, visiting local businesses and charming his audience. At the shelter's open house he gave pony rides to happy kids and was adored by all.

In the middle is Mariah, a Morgan mare. She is a senior citizen, but you would never know it. She has boundless energy and loves to go trail-riding. She is one of my personal favorites. She has an endearing personality and is a real beauty with her flaxen mane and tail. She has a lot of life left in her despite her age, and would make somebody a great riding companion.

On the bottom is Najih, who arrived just before I began volunteering at the shelter. He is one of the most beautiful horses I've ever seen, an Arabian who escaped the kill pen by the skin of his teeth. He has a long life ahead of him, and it's sad to see him without a doting owner who can love him as he deserves to be loved. He is quiet and well-behaved, definitely the Prince Charming of the lot. Everyone thinks the world of him, and we'd really love to see him find his own person.

It's hard for me to write for the purpose of finding homes for these horses. They have become so dear to me that I can't imagine not seeing their heads go up, ears pricked, as I approach the paddocks. I love their nuzzling noses, their pleasure at being petted and groomed, their playfulness, their beauty. I will miss them terribly when they are gone. The consolation is that more horses will be saved when their spaces open up, and all will be just as deserving and precious as these are............and those adopted will each be the apple of someone's eye, as they surely ought to be.

No Sooner Said Than Done

2010-09-02T09:06:00.000-04:00

Just yesterday I was writing about seeing Belle as a riding horse and now here she is with Andrea aboard. Belle wasn't sitting idly while I thought about her future. She was already at work, learning manners.

Belle

2010-09-01T11:48:00.000-04:00

This is Belle, the newest arrival at the shelter. She's big, she's black, she's strong, and she's pushy. Still she has some loveable ways even now, and once she's had some TLC and training, she'll be a beauty. She is a Percheron, and most likely will make a nice driving horse for somebody. Being a fan of big-boned horses, I imagine riding her. In my opinion she would make a gorgeous saddle horse once she is back to health and condition.

Horses are piling up and Andrea is planning to build another shed to increase the capacity of the place. It has to be done entirely by donations of materials, money, and labor. What is needed and how to help is posted on the shelter's website and on Facebook. There are so few places compared to how many horses are in need. So much time, effort, and money is invested in each horse, and the adoption process moves very slowly. But look at Belle now, and then again in a few months. You will be amazed, and it will be obvious that it's all worth it.

Judith, Fern, and Major

2010-08-29T20:03:00.000-04:00

I am a new volunteer at FLFES and have asked Andrea if I might write some posts from my own perspective. There are several people who have worked there much longer than I and are much more familiar with the operation of the shelter. I am seeing it with innocent eyes, amazed and enthralled. My duties are mostly custodial. It takes a lot of hands to create a clean, safe, restorative environment for horses in need of rescue from appalling situations. I go about my chores humming happily, glad to be where I am, doing what I'm doing.

The three horses in the pictures are thse that have been adopted since I've been volunteering. Judith was the first to go, then Fern, then Major. No matter how wonderful it is to see them go to new homes where they will be loved and cared for, seeing them go is very difficult. The new owners have been thoroughly screened, and when each one goes there is room for another rescue, but we all cry just the same. We have cared for them, nurtured them, given them back their lives. It's hard to let go.

I am thankfully outside of the enormous task of administering the place. There is a constant worry about funding. I circle around the outside of this part, more or less taking its existence for granted. I am only vaguely aware of the expenses involved and the network of people who contribute time and money just to get one horse to the shelter. And that is only the beginning.

But others will talk about that on this blog. My plan is to describe what happens there as I observe it. I want to somehow try to explain how wonderful things can happen in places where you wouldn't expect it, and that people give so much of themselves to make things better without any reward except the satisfaction of having done what is right and good.

How a Bar of Soap can help a horse!

2010-04-26T19:02:00.000-04:00

Handmade soap! Lovingly crafted by my sister-in-law.exclusively for First Light Farm Equine Shelter. Oatmeal/Honey Natural Glycerin or Goat's Milk Natural Glycerin . These bars are long lasting and mild, won't dry out your skin. Purchase price is $5 each plust $1.50 shipping. Two for ...$12 including shipping. Save a buck! Help a horse! If paying buy Paypal, please add 50 cents to cover their fees.

ORDER VIA PAYPAL

Najih is AWESOME!

2010-04-26T08:09:00.000-04:00

Najih as you may recall, was rescued from the killpen at Camelot auction through the combined efforts of FLFES, Carolyn Jacobson and Beth Atwood, along with several kind and generous people who donated toward his transportation costs.

Naj is doing great! Beth Qt'd him through the first three weeks. At first he seemed no worse for the wear but then showed signs of a respiratory infection. Dr. Ebel was called and he was diagnosed with a "shipping" fever, -which is a blanket term for any number of respiratory viral or bacterial infections. Poor Naj (and poor Beth for dealing through the worst of it!) - He did lose some weight and had a rough go of it but he's on the mend now.

Beth needed to make room for some new arrivals and Naj was moved to FLFES on April 23. He continues to improve and he is just as sweet as can be! He will be available for adoption in a month or two.

Scrapbooking Fundraiser! April 25 - Eastport, ME Youth Center

2010-04-18T10:25:00.000-04:00

SCRAPBOOKING FUNDRAISER

	Eastport Youth Center, Eastport, ME
	Sunday, April 25 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Please join us at the Eastport Youth Center for a Scrapbooking Party. This will be hosted by Dawn Winchester and Creative Memories. You will be introduced to their line of products and have an opportunity to purchase supplies. If you like, you can bring a few pictures with you and after the party Dawn will give a short intro to help get you started.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit First Light Farm Equine Shelter. Please join us!

If you can't attend but would still like to support the Rescue by making a purchase, you can order right on Dawn's website http://www.facebook.com/l/df317;www.mycmsite.com/dawnwinchester -

and FLFES will receive credit. Please choose to associate your order with a host (Andrea Barstow) when you first click on "shop products".

April 10 - Equine Seminar

2010-04-03T20:22:00.000-04:00

Please join us on Saturday, April 10 from 11AM to 3PM at KD Stable in Lee Maine for an information and fun day of equine discussion and demonstration.

Speakers will include: Chrissy Perry, District Humane Agent; Andrea Barstow, First Light Farm Equine Shelter; Jen Winchester, Spirit of Hope Farm; Andrew Beal, Poulin Grain Equine Nutritionist; and Kevin Crane, horsemanship clinician.

The theme will be equine rescue. Chrissy will discuss the process and protocol of the AWP's investigation into actions in animal neglect cases. Andrea will discuss how First Light Farm Equine Shelter was created. Jen will discuss proper quarantining protocols; Andrew will discuss nutritional needs of starved and underweight horses; and Kevin will work with a rescued pair of horses that have had limited human contact.

The cost of the seminar is $10 per person or $15 per couple and admission includes lunch. Children 16 and under, free

First Light Farm Equine Shelter will be holding a tack sale to benefit the shelter. Donations are welcome!

FMI Call Debra McKay at 738-2248 or email dmckay55@fairpoint.net -

2010-04-01T20:59:00.001-04:00

The struggle is ongoing.

2010-04-01T07:34:00.000-04:00

FLFES is a very "small potatoes" operation. Essentially, all aspects are managed by one person. So, I guess it's a good thing we are "small potatoes." But in reality, it's still a big job. The hands on stuff with the horses is a piece of cake, compared to the daily struggle to obtain funds to run the shelter.

Last night at midnight I 'stood in line' (electronically speaking) to try to submit an application to Pepsi's Refresh Project. I worked for several days perfecting my application "idea" and then at the last minute, created a video to push the idea home...unfortunately, the website was so swamped at 12:01:01 April 1 that I could not get the application submitted in time and 1000 applications went a head of mine.

I am so disappointed, but I suppose I need to get used to disappointments like this. This is only the first of many failures - Yes, I know it's not a failure, just a speed bump. I can try again next month, but how to avoid running into the same electronic bottleneck?

I also realize that seeking out grants and funding is going to be a huge part of this project - something I wish I could devote more time to. However, as of three weeks from now, my unemployment benefits will have been exhausted and though I have been trying to find an interesting job with a decent wage, I will now be forced to work 40 hours a week away from the shelter earning minimum wage at some mindless loathsome job, (and that will be difficult to find due to the unemployment/economic anemia in Washington County) instead of devoting my time here. I am thinking of selling my saddle, that would bring me the equivalent to two weeks' pay - I can pay my personal bills and still work at the shelter... but what next.

Something is going to happen - something that will let me continue doing my work at the shelter while also allowing me to provide for me family - I know it will - I just need to find that "Something."

How does a horse like this end up in the kill pen?

2010-03-29T22:25:00.000-04:00

This is number 760 - At least that is what he was called up until now. Now he is known as Najee (Najii, Naji or Najih ) Any way you spell it, it is Arabic for Survivor or Safe!

Najee was dumped at Camelot auction by his owners. They said he was too much horse for their daughter... Who buys at young Arabian for a novice kid? So he didn't fit the kid, and he was sent to auction. Trouble is, no one bought him at the auction. For most horses that don't sell at the Wednesday night auction, their next destination is the #10 Kill pen. Horse in the kill pen are loaded onto a truck the following Sunday and head to Canadian slaughterhouses (don't get me started now, but suffice it to say, humane treatment is not the priority there.

There is a dedicate group of people who work diligently every week to find a home for every horse in the Camelot Kill Pen. You can read about their incredible work here.... Through this group, FLFES has been able to snatch three horses from the jaws of death. Najii is the latest one of these horses.

Najii was "bailed out" by guardian angel, Carolyn Jacobson. His health certificate and transportation were made possible by a number of kind people who donated money to help him get home. Najii arrived in Maine on Saturday, March 27 and was delivered to foster Mom, Beth Atwood on Sunday. Beth will keep Naj in QT for the next 30 days to ensure he does not spread any viruses he may have picked up at the auction barn.

Over the next few weeks, Beth will be evaluating his training and suitability for potential adopters.

Forevergreen Miriah

2010-03-29T21:36:00.000-04:00

Miriah (aka Frances) has been at the shelter since October, 2009 and really needs a home. She's 24 years young and in excellent health. She has put on a lot of weight in the past few months, so much so that we have cut her grain back considerably.

Miriah would be best suited for a confident rider. When she first arrived she was more laid back, but now that her feet have had consistent care and she has gained weight, she is somewhat full of herself. At one time she was shown on the Maine Morgan show circuit. She does know a few things! She needs a refresher though. She does listen as long as her handler is confident and clear on instructions.

She is a great trail horse, nothing much bothers her. In fact, I took Miriah to a competition last fall and we placed 8th out of 16. Not bad for a couple of old farts! We even had to take a small jump which she did without hesitation. She's really a good girl, she just needs consistent handling by a knowledgeable rider. Can you provide a loving, forever home for Forevergreen Miriah?

Catching up with Fern and Judith...

2010-03-29T21:15:00.000-04:00

I apologize for the irregularity of posts. FLFES has been busy trying to keep our heads above water (figuratively and literally tonight LOL)

Judith and Fern are doing awesome.

Judith, the younger of the two is learning to trust people and the world around her. She's very much in your pocket as long as you are in front of her. Putting blankets, saddles on makes her very nervous, but she's making progress. She had her feet done the other day and would not stand for the farrier unless I stayed with her - she just needs time to get to know new people. She's also a bit spooky. Not out of control, but definitely not a fan of things "blowing in the wind." So, to work on desensitization, we have affixed a plastic bag to the fence as well as leaving blankets on the rails. When the wind picks up these thing go into action. Every day she is less and less affected by these thing.

We did put a saddle on her but she felt very stiff and unsure - she knows left, right, whoa and walk on. She has a nice smooth trot. But we have decided to go back to basics as we don't know what holes might be in her training.

Judith has caught the eye of Melissa Foss of Eastport. Melissa comes to see her several times a week, doing round pen work and some old fashioned sacking out. It is Melissa's intent to adopt Judith as soon as her little barn is built and her turn out is completely cleared. In the meantime, Melissa and Judith (whom she calls Jewels) are getting to know and trust one another.

Fern has had a bit of a rough start but seems to be doing better. She has choked twice since starting on grain. For those of you unfamiliar with choke in a horse - it's not asphyxiation - it's food caught in the esophagus - it can't go up or down and lodges there painfully. It does restrict breathing and can be quite frightening for both horse and owner. Both times, she was able to clear it herself after about 20 minutes. Since these episodes I have followed Dr. Newcomb's advice and have been adding a good amount of oil to each feeding. She gets about a 1/2 c of Canola oil mixed in - and this seems to be doing the trick. I stay with her while she eats to make sure she's ok. I notice that she does wolf down her dinner, so I usually place some large flat rocks in her grain bucket so she has to nibble around them. However, she's gotten quite good as flipping the rocks out of her bucket.
Fern had her teeth done to see if it was a chewing issue. Dr. Newcomb did find a sharp edge, but did not feel it was the cause of the choke. Most likely it's because she's been eating too fast. Not unusual for a horse that has not had enough to eat.

While she was sedated for her teeth floating, we took a good look at her tattoo, but we are still unable to identify the numbers and letter. The vet and I agreed at 15 years by her teeth, but we will likely never know about her racing career.

We've gotten on her a couple of times. She seems very laid back, but we only walked around the pasture a bit. When she gains more weight we will put her through her paces. (note, that's just a figure a speech, she's a trotter, not a pacer!)

Catching up with 305 & 308 (they now have names!)

2010-03-08T06:23:00.000-05:00

These wonderful ladies arrive Sunday, February 28. They had been among the leftovers of a weekly horse auction at Camelot Auction in Cranbury, NJ. At this auction, as is the case with most others, horses that are not purchased, are put into the kill pen for shipment to Canada where they will be slaughtered. CLICK HERE for information on the horrors of the trucking part, never mind the ultimate end...

We have no real information as to why they ended up at the auction. My guess with 308 is that she was no longer earning any money. She's sore and tired and may have some stifle issues. Time will tell. As for 305, could have been a simple case of finances.

They were cold, exhausted and bewildered when they arrived. After having endured whatever may have happened before arriving at Camelot Auction, they then endured a long hour trip from NJ to ME through miserable weather. (Thanks to Todd Parker for delivering them safely).

Dr. Newcomb came out on Wednesday to give them a once over. Barring any incubating illnesses, they checked out fine.

We have named the standardbred Fern and the chestnut quarter horse is Judith.

Again, this is just a brief update. The amazing story of how FLFES was able to get these girls here will follow. For now, they are doing great, getting stronger (and sassier) every day!

No Kill Pen for these girls!

2010-03-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

Say hello to 308 & 305, or "8" and "5" for short. Pulled from the Camelot Auction kill pen on Saturday, February 27, they arrive at First Light Farm Equine Shelter on Sunday, February 28 - cold, tired, hungry and bewildered. I just wanted to get started on this blog. I will add more information later!