Money Worries, Weather Worries...

From Jim: We're into a new year and it's pretty clear that there will be some significant challenges facing the sanctuary. Because we believe every animal's life is precious and worthy, we are always on the ragged edge financially. If we have extra money, it means we're not saving as many critters as we could. We know from sad experiences that if not for this place, lives are cut short. Some of our residents have gotten their wings after only a few months, but they were loved and the last act of kindness our kind can give theirs was our gift to them. Our standard of care is driven by quality of life criteria that are constantly reviewed by our vet, our fellow horse lovers, and our own deeply held commitment to these wonderful creatures. It costs a lot of money. It takes a lot of time and hard work. It's not convenient or "magic pony" stuff. We need everyone who reads this blog or follows our Face Book page to step up. Small donations of 10 or 20 or 50 dollars truly make a difference. We are really concerned about holding this place together for the herd. Our outreach includes participation in local events, Home At Last Thrift and Gift Store, contests-we've won and placed in two national programs-and interaction with the media. We work very closely with Horse Plus Humane Society and Butte County Animal Control, Laura and Amazing Gracie visit rest homes, rehabilitation hospitals, and care facilities. We support and promote other rescues and sanctuaries here in Northern California and all over the United States-even some in other countries. We don't like to ask for help. It's uncomfortable for us. But, the needs of the animals are more important than our comfort. The other real issue facing us is the current drought. Without rain, soon, the wells will continue to lose production. The herd uses about 2500 gallons of water a day. Hauling in water would be possible, but really costly and time consuming. Worse still, the hay crop for next year will fail. Our hay is already up, but needs rain badly. I have already started weighing contingencies should we lose it. Again, it's possible to use cubes or pelleted feed but it would be a financial and logistic nightmare. Our animals live in herds. Trying to figure out how to feed a concentrated product and insure that everyone was getting their share is kind of mind boggling. We have 80 residents. Right now, it takes about 6 hours a day to feed and water. Bucket feeding? I don't know. So, a rain dance or three would be appreciated. I sure hope this doesn't sound like whining. It's not what was intended. We are so grateful for the great folks that support us. It's a large undertaking, this sanctuary. Your help is and always will be needed. We're not going to give in. Lives are at stake. Thanks for helping us save them.