Hold Onto Your Hay Nets...June Was Wild!

Samson here with your monthly report! I don't even know where to begin this month. Usually, I spend my days keeping track of who stole whose hay pile and which goat is causing trouble, but this month was so busy that even I had trouble keeping up!

First, our hearts are still hurting as we said a very tearful goodbye to our friend Kiss. Losing a member of the rescue family is never easy, and we know many of you are missing her too. Thank you to everyone who kept her in your thoughts and hearts.

Now hold onto your carrots because this next number is HUGE...

We welcomed over 60 new rescues this month alone!

One of the biggest groups to arrive was approximately 40 chickens. Every year, we see the same heartbreaking situation. People buy adorable baby chicks for their children or hatch them in classrooms to teach students about life cycles. Unfortunately, many don't realize that some towns do not allow chickens, and even fewer allow roosters.

Here's a little advice from a wise donkey: before bringing home any animal, please do your homework! Make sure your town allows chickens and remember that when you buy chicks, there is always a chance one or more may grow up to be roosters. Schools planning hatching projects should also have permanent homes arranged before those chicks hatch. Every little life deserves a plan and a safe future.

Our Barn Cat Program has also been incredibly busy. We rescued 18 cats this month! These hardworking felines are helping keep barns rodent-free while enjoying safe homes of their own. We are so grateful for everyone who supports this program.

And then there was auction day...

The rescue board headed to the auction with a carefully planned budget. Unfortunately, horse prices were much higher than expected. Like everyone else, the rescue is feeling the effects of rising costs. Feed, hay, veterinary care, fuel, and supplies all continue to increase. Our recent fundraising mailer didn't bring in the level of support we had hoped for, so every dollar had to be carefully considered.

But then they saw Bruno.

This poor gelding could barely walk. If you know anything about us, you know we don't wait around when an animal is suffering. Bruno was brought home, and our veterinarian and farrier immediately went to work side-by-side. X-rays were taken, and a treatment plan was started right away to address his severely neglected feet and get him comfortable. He has a long road ahead, but he's finally receiving the care he deserves.

We also welcomed Mayfly, who was lovingly relinquished due to financial hardships. Within an hour of arriving at the rescue, she was being examined by our veterinarian. Mayfly was covered in lice, hadn't properly shed her winter coat, was extremely underweight, and had a very messy tail. During her examination, our veterinarian also noted what appeared to be dental issues and a large bump on her head. Extensive blood work was performed to help us better understand her overall health and determine the best course of treatment. To help her feel more comfortable, she was body-clipped and treated immediately. Once we are able to put some weight back on her and she is feeling stronger, we will be more comfortable sedating her next month so her dental work can be completed safely. She is already enjoying the extra attention and beginning her journey toward better health.

And finally, the llamas had their annual spa day!

Okay, maybe they didn't call it that, but they all got sheared and are looking much cooler and more comfortable for the summer months. I must admit, they look a little funny right now, but don't tell them I said that.

As always, thank you to every volunteer, donor, supporter, and adopter who makes this lifesaving work possible. With so many new arrivals this month, the need for support is greater than ever. Whether you donate, volunteer, sponsor an animal, or simply share our posts, you are helping animals like Bruno, Mayfly, our chickens, cats, llamas, and so many others get the second chance they deserve.

Until next month, I'll be keeping watch over the barn and making sure nobody steals my snacks.

Your faithful reporter,

Samson