Questions and Answers Sat April 18 2010

We are often asked why we do what we do. The above pictures should answer that question. We love to be a part of something larger than ourselves. We love to serve others- whether they be two or four or no legged critters. We like knowing we make a difference. When we awaken each morning there are faces greeting us - faces that wouldn't be here if we hadn't brought them to Home At Last.
We made a conscious choice to do without the leisurely retirement, fancy cars, and vacations. We would rather be here at the ranch than anywhere else in the world.
We are asked, also, how we can deal with the cruelty that others have done to these animals. That's harder. We try to make each day for the animals here the best day of their life. They live in the moment. Yes, some are emotionally scarred, but we offer them sanctuary. I would like to have a serious talk with their abusers or neglecters, but it wouldn't make any difference.
Many of the horses were well loved and placed here by  kind, caring, loving owners. They more than make up for the negligent, cruel ones. Their continued support and concern for their animals is wonderful.
How do we deal with death? Because we have so many horses, donkeys and mules and because they come with all sorts of problems and because some are aged we face death a lot. We have to make hard choices. We value the quality of the animals' lives. We use a standard our vet gave us. Choose 3 things the animal loves and when they can no longer do 2 of the 3 things their quality of life is diminished.
This means we get to know the animals well, so that we can judge their joys. We know each animal well- their favorite itchy place, their favorite snack, their best buddy. We know who likes to nap,  eat alone or  be with someone else.
We cry for days over every death. We mourn their passing and rejoice that we got to be a part of their life. We deal with it because we do it for them, not for us.
How do we afford it? We rely on donations and our dwindling bank account. We need more supporters to keep going. So far the donations are way less than half of what we need each month. We have no paid employees. All donations go directly to animal care.
If you can help, let us know. Thank you.
Donna Kyle POBox 4129 Yankee Hill CA 95965  homeatlastsanctuary@gmail.com