Our Story
Every horse that has come into our lives is because of a very special horse, “Willing Spirit.”
After years of abuse at the racetrack, and 14 years of neglect we were amazed how she immediately loved and trusted a young girl who had shown her kindness. This pathetic equine was first noticed standing in a weedy field, with her head hanging low. It was obvious that she had given up on life, and we could not ignore her pain. We later were told that she was to be sent for slaughter with a few of her friends, but she was too thin and sickly and was left to die in the field. All her friends that she had spent years huddling with were gone. She was totally alone.
Permission was given for 11-year-old Courtenay to “befriend” this pathetic creature. She stood like a statue the first time in years that she was groomed. For over an hour Courtenay brushed the burrs and knots out of her mane and tail. Spirit adored the attention. Her teeth were floated so she could once again eat hay.
How she loved her twice a day meals. She stood at the fence waiting for her special friend to visit daily. Within a short time, her colour changed from a pale sorrel colour to a lovely bay. After she had gained several hundred pounds, she was brought “home.” She had gone for years without shelter, and how she loved her own little barn. The first time Courtenay put a saddle on her, Spirit hardly seemed to breathe as she was so proud. She had not been ridden for 14 years and when Courtenay got on her back she was absolutely regal. Spirit and Courtenay had a very special bond. Spirit would watch for Courtenay to come home from school. She enjoyed Courtenay riding her bareback and they would play together. It was very touching to see this loving, trusting relationship grow daily.
Because of Willing Spirit and her loving and forgiving nature, we were inspired to help other horses that deserved a safe and happy life.
Since then, we have rescued over 160 horses and placed all but the horses living here presently into loving homes. We brought 5 shipments from the feedlots in Alberta in 2002 and 2003 as thousands of wonderful horses were being sent to slaughter due to the worst drought in over 100 years and hay was too expensive to feed the many horses there. We started as "The Alberta Crisis" and as a group were compelled to save as many horses as possible and give them the “happy endings” they deserve.
It soon came to our attention that there were many wonderful local Ontario horses that needed assistance. Horses whose owners had lost their homes and the horse had no place to go, starvation cases, neglected horses, former race horses who no longer could race, show horses who were elderly or lame. Once a horse is lame, there are not many homes available as few want a lame horse. If we can not find the perfect match of a permanent, committed home, they will stay here where they are happy and safe.
A big thanks to all the wonderful sponsors who continue to support the show. Thanks to all the volunteers who came out to help set up prior to the show and tear down after the show. Thanks also to the guys in the food tent. Still the best breakfast sandwich ever!!!!!
Crystal and Amber Ripa are to be congratulated and admired for their commitment to such a great cause, now in it's 10th year.
Crystal Ripa, looking as lovely as ever!!! Congrats on your engagement Crystal.
Pink is what it's all about. Our riders and horses were all decked out!
Our volunteers, where would we be without them?
The silent auction and prize tables are always a big draw.
Spectators watching the action.
It was a hot, dusty day, but that didn't stop our competitors.
Taking a well deserved break between classes.
That's a wrap!
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Our youngest competitor of the day!
The entry booth was a busy place.
The food tent was also a popular spot. Many thanks to the guys in the food tent. Best breakfast sandwich ever!!!!
More photos from the show can be viewed at http://marianadoranti.zenfolio.com/p302271471
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Below are featured a few of the cats that are available for adoption.
For more information regarding volunteer opportunities please call 905-689-7801.
If you wish to adopt call the Adoption Line - 905-689-4972
Visit them on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Animal-Adoptions-of-Flamborough/148102178544272?fref=ts
or visit their Website:
Not all of the donkeys that come to the Sanctuary are rescues. Some have been very well cared for but due to circumstances their owners can no longer care for them and surrender them to the Sanctuary. The Sanctuary consists of 100 acres of land. The Donkey Sanctuary is a not-for-profit charity and they rely on donations to help with the operation of the sanctuary.
I had to opportunity to visit the Sanctuary earlier this year. I was very impressed by the facility.
For more information regarding the sanctuary please visit their website - http://www.thedonkeysanctuary.ca
On the day of my visit I was lucky enough to see a baby donkey which had been born in July, 2014. His name is Flint. He is kept in a separate paddock with his mom.
It does my heart good to see these animals treated with such respect, love and kindness. If you live in the area please visit the Sanctuary.
Flint with his mom
Flint resting after a hard day of play
Flint looking beyond the fence to "greener pastures"
Breakfast time.
Some require more care than others.
Visitors are encouraged to be hands on. Grooming and petting is encouraged.
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Oil cans used to lubricate the pumps.
Lavender for sale.
The Grand River.
Some interesting windows.
Some wildlife.
A budding photographer.
Some cool buildings along the waterfront.
A few bridges.
Somethings to wonder about.
Yoga anyone?
And what better way to end the day then with a bit of candy.
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My coach Katie Duffy and her boy Top Secret
Crystal and Helena.
Amber and the handsome Storm.
Laura & Conner. Laura is such a trooper. We took this photo on a very cold winter day.
Bev and Mariner.
Sarah and Devon
Jen & Torrie
Greta & Inschallah
Sharon & Rosie
Sharon & Coco
Colleen & Jack
HORSES AT LIBERTY
Conner & Quinny
Helena & Storm
Rosie & Coco
Inschalllah
He has the softest eyes :)
"Let a horse whisper in your ear and breathe on your heart. You will never regret it."
]]>The Police, Community Leaders, Artists & Youth worked together to use graffiti for good! Graffiti Artists created a message of hope by creating a We Are Visible Hamilton Mural which will be shared in NYC at http://140conf.com
What a wonderful way to showcase the artists of Hamilton.
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Frankie in a pensive moment.
He loves his tennis balls.
Happy boy!
Johnny enjoying a quiet moment.
With mom & dad.
