Standard of Care...

From Jim: Our vet, Dr. Gary Darling, was here today. He generally calls on the sanctuary once or twice a month for regular stuff and as often as special issues require. He says with the size of our herd, every week is like a year for the average horse owner, more, if you take in all the special needs our residents have as a result of abuse, neglect, injury, and old age. Because we're committed to quality of life for each animal, the vet is a critical part of what we do. We give each incoming critter an intake exam, baseline immunizations, worming, dental exam, blood work, if necessary, and an overall assessment which will determine any special care or feeding needs. When we begin to see the signs of waning quality, Dr. Darling helps us place the animal on a graduated "watch list". These animals are seen every time the vet is here. When their time has come, the good Doc sedates and euthanizes them. We have never gotten used to providing the final act of kindness, but having the vet help with the decision is comforting. Our equines are lifetime residents. They aren't rehabbed and rehomed. They live here. Our level of care for each animal is continued year round without exception. When strangles went through the herd, we had 30 sick horses. They each got daily care and, when needed, medications or special diets. We lost 3. That's about average for the disease-10% morbidity. It was awful. Dr. Darling was here several times a week during that struggle. We face colic several times each year. Generally, it resolves with the usual pain meds and tubing with water and mineral oil. Sometimes we lose. We hate colic! One month Gary was here every Sunday night after 10pm. Wow, he puts in some long days with long weeks. What we like the most, what means the most, is that Dr. Darling treats everyone one of our animals with the highest standard of care. 45 year old Jonathan, donkey and 4 year old Chance, Thoroughbred get the same careful competent attention. Every animal's life is precious and is respected. For each animal, this is their personal sanctuary. They are home, at last. We can't thank Gary enough.