Jewel

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It Was Not Her Fault

  • Chestnut Grade Mare
  • Entry Date – 3/16/13 at age 14
  • Type of rescue – Surrender by Owner
  • Reason – Considered “dangerous”
  • Special needs – none

In the Fall of 2008 when Jewel’s rider came off, Jewel bolted. In a blind panic, the chestnut mare galloped down a hill, skidded across a paved country road, and somehow managed to hurl herself over the four and a half foot gate between her and the safety of the familiar barnyard. No one saw what Jewel must have endured in her attempt at such a high jump or what trauma she suffered in her likely awkward landing with full western tack. Since Jewel was not bleeding or visibly broken, no vet was called. It was at that time she was deemed a “dangerous horse.”

No one knows how Jewel fared throughout the winter months until a “free horse” ad appeared on Craig’s List in the spring of 2009. When a potential owner arrived to try her out, Jewel was tacked up in a round pen. While mounting, the rider lost her balance, fell under the spooking horse, and was seriously injured. The rider later acknowledged that the fault was hers, that she should have worn proper footwear, and that Jewel should have been tested to see how she responded under saddle after a long stint in the pasture following the 2008 accident. This incident and what followed ensured that the “dangerous horse” label stuck.

While waiting for the ambulance, Jewel’s handers attempted to cram the still frightened horse into an undersized horse trailer, injuring her face and legs and causing her to rear and bolt. Jewel was hauled to safety the next day, her face and legs smeared with dried blood and her body covered with small cuts and abrasions. A professional examination including x-rays, revealed that Jewel had suffered injuries consistent with a major impact to her left side, most likely from her fall back in 2008. The only way the long-suffering mare had been able to communicate her pain was to react with “bad” behavior.

None of this was Jewel’s fault. Yet, as is so common for horses that have been mistreated and misused, she bore the pain and danger of potential euthanasia for being a “dangerous” horse.

Eventually, Jewel found a patron who was willing to begin her recovery process and to search out a forever home for this lovely mare. In her two years at the Equamore Sanctuary, Jewel has made so much progress!  She is not dangerous!  Jewel has calmed enough to be a wonderful camp horse for grooming and ground work. She is affectionate and curious and a happy member of her herd. Jewel’s insecurities still show in her ever changing best friends – first Kizzy, then Star, then Portia, then Preston… But Jewel has the rest of her life at the Sanctuary to reach her full potential and confidence in the company of her herd, all of her BFFs, and people that love her.

Here is how you can help:

  • Join an already established rescue team with a monthly contribution level that is comfortable for you.
  • Become a “Team Captain” by collectively organizing your friends and relatives to join you in sponsoring one
    of Equamore’s residents.
  • Pledge $450 monthly to fully support an equine of your choice.
    If you would like to join this crucial program, please contact us for more information.

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