Horse Slaughter

The horses in the above picture, Gramps and Missy, were found by one of our volunteers at a local feed lot. It was evident they had made the auction circuit and were now on their way to the slaughterhouse. They had bonded closely so we didn't feel we could just take one. They are now safe and much healthier and will live out the rest of their lives at 2x2 Ranch. Our vet says Gramps is over 30 years old and Missy is about 15 years old. I can't help but feel that somewhere at sometime they were someone's beloved pets before fate took a wrong turn.

"Rescued Hearts" by Barbara Beard

Taking care of rescued horses is something I do best.
I know because I've done it and surely passed the test.

The horses that I've brushed and fed, the cleaning I have done,
and all to watch a frightened soul stand dreaming in the sun.

My own horses I've neglected, but I tell them everyday,
that I love and cherish them even though a new horse has come to stay.

I know they understand this, for in their eyes I see,
the love I have given them come shining back at me.

Some people think I'm crazy, some others think I'm great,
but very few can understand what really is at stake.

If I can love and help a horse to find a better way,
my life is much more richer, that I look forward to each day.

So now you know my secret, it is there for all to see,
the love I give, the life I save, I do it all for me!

Horse Rescuers Prayer

As I walk through the muck and more of the slaughter lines, seeing the starved, abused, neglected and throw away horses, as I deal with those arrogant, abusive and ignorant people, who have a million excuses why their horses are dying - I pray:

Grant me the courage to survive the nightmares of the abused I couldn't save, so I can continue to save others.

Grant me acceptance that I cannot change everyone's perception, but if I can changes just one at a time, it is well worth the effort.

Grant me peace in knowing I am doing all I can and more people join me everyday and that I am not alone in loving and saving these magnificent creatures.

Grant me the ability to keep my mouth shut until I have the animal safely in hand, and only then can I truly speak my mind.

Grant me everlasting joy in experiencing the renewal of hope and life in an animal destined for death with once listless eyes now filled with love.

Grant me the words to express the outrage, wrongness and inhumanity to the next generation. for they are our light.

Grant me my dreams that one day humanity will accept the other beings of the planet, as fellow being, and just as deserving of live.