Two lives: one short, one long. A baby and an old man both new to saints, each with their own sad tale.
One very ancient horse has lived alone for a very long time and been terribly neglected. In his pasture he has stayed for many many years, perhaps his entire life. Until someone cared enough or noticed his sad state and decided to call the SPCA. The SPCA came out to investigate and told the owner that he must get this horse medical care or have the horse put down. The man called the vet and he had no money to try to fix this horse. Popeye's feet are severely overgrown and as a result his muscle and ligaments are deformed. The vet was determined that this horse be given a chance--to try to do right by this poor horse. He called SAINTS and brought him out to SAINTS where he is safe and will now receive the best medical care money can buy. But will it be enough? Is it too late for Popeye? Hope is still floating ... sweet boy.
A puppy was bought from a breeder to replace a long time companion to a family and a little boy. But the puppy was sick--renal failure due to inbreeding. Too much for the family to deal with. They surrendered her to SAINTS. Among the ancient and crippled animals she will feel healthy. Bombing around the farm she will be carefree. She will learn happiness, love and friendship. She will be totally spoiled. Her life will be short but good. Mystic will not live out the year.
Mystic with SAINTS volunteer Handyman, Brent today
"Mystic will not live out the year." That line made me really sad. Thank goodness SHE doesn't know that she has less than a year to live. As puppies do, she will truly LIVE everyday in the best place she could be with the best people and she will only know all the good things in life. That is the gift of SAINTS.
But, oh, I don't know how you do it Carol. To help an older animal to pass is one thing but to watch the life drain from a youngster who has barely seen the world - that's another thing entirely. You and your volunteers are simply marvelous and it comforts me to know that, unlike 99% of your animals, Mystic will never know misery since she found you before misery had a chance.