Beauty's Haven Farm and Equine Rescue
Invite reviews
I have been an Angel Sponsor to two minature horses at the BHFER for several years now. I get the daily news updates on the rescues and follow closely what is happening at the Rescue. Theresa personally corresponds with donors on a regular basis. I don't know how she finds the time to do everything she does. This is hands down the best equine rescue in the state of Florida. Theresa has horse sense and skills beyond anything I have ever witnessed (I am a long time horse owner myself). She works miracles and when a life cannot be saved, she mourns and is able to be with the animal as it takes its last breath. That kind of strength is rare.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Providing sponsorship money and goods that can be used in the care of rescued horses.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Encourage more people to sponsor horses on a regular basis so funds are there when needed.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Witnessing the extraordinary work done at BHFER
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Extraordinarily kind and giving people.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Save more equine lives.
Ways to make it better...
If I could help more horses through more donations.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Funds and more "Angel Sponsors" providing regular donations.
One thing I'd also say is that...
Give to BHFER. Any amount will help.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I have been involved with horse rescue since the loss of Barbaro. Donating to help save horses from slaughter for many various rescues across the USA. About three years ago I found Beauty's Haven and Theresa when she rescued a newborn filly born with a wry nose. Her owner wanted to shoot her and her mother Momma Sue. Theresa saved Aaleyah Belle and Momma Sue and many followers of BH raised fund so Aaleyah could have surgery to correct her nose. Just this past June I drove from Atlanta with my husband to the Celebration of life at BH. We celebrated Aaleyh's 2nd birthday, yes she is a wonderful two year old and she is just one of so many that Theresa has rescued. Theresa is an Angel for the unwanted horses that are injured, abused and starved. Miracles happen at Beauty's Haven thanks to Theresa. There are lots of rescues you cannot trust. I have visited Beauyt's Haven multiple times and I have complete trust in Theresa and all involved with BH.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
I have experinced so many rescues at Beauty's Haven. Theresa is an Angel on earth for horses that are the most unwanted, abused, neglected, starved & injued. Without Theresa & Beauty's Haven the horse that come to her would not survive.
More feedback...
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
After becoming involved in horse rescue locally, I happened upon a friend who directed me to The Alex Brown Racing Forum. I soon became an FOB (Fans of Barbaro). Barbaro's legacy is helping other equines in need. It was there on the forum that I first discovered Beauty's Haven. What a wonderful organization for the horses. They are the ultimate example for others to follow in the rescue business. Everything is open for donors to view. Daily updates with pictures of progress are very enduring. You feel like one of the family, totally involved in a horses improvement. No where have I seen this played out so exquisitely as at Beauty's Haven. The people there are the number one factor in the recovery of so many equines. The arrival of a near death horse is always a loving experience. They are taken and settled in with personal care. All services (vet, farrier, chiropractor, dental, holistic) are given. I can only imagine the relief in the horse's mind as they are hugged and kissed into a life of love and care. So many who are leary of humans melt into Teresa and her loving arms. They seem to know their future is safe with her and her volunteers. Having been involved in rescues and how they are run I must say Beauty's Haven is top notch. They are the template to follow. To see a starving and neglected colt live to become a beautiful friendly adult is so gratifying. To see a hopelessly dying horse befriended and loved, pain free for the first time is emotional. To see that same horse lovingly helped cross the Rainbow Bridge with dignity in the arms of Teresa is something that will touch your heart forever. To sum it up...Beauty's Haven is where I would want to be if I were a horse in need... for surely it is the next best place to heaven itself.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Daily updates. It is addictive in respects of getting my info about what is happening there everyday. Progress on recent intakes...viewing the current conditions of long followed horses...feels like I am almost there and part of the family.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Do all I could to help the vision of Beauty's Haven to continue their much need work. They are leading in the right direction.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Awaiting the birth of Kami and then watching her everyday develop into a beautiful little loving diva. Also, the camaraderie of all the members of this wonderful equine saving family.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Following them via the internet is almost like knowing old friends. All that do hands on are so very dedicated to the mission set forth by Teresa, the lead angel of the equines.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Strive to change the court systems, the Animal Control attitude and education, the public awareness...change the laws in favor of humane treatment of all animals. Grow the whole Beauty's Haven mission to fruition.
Ways to make it better...
My experience has only grown more satisfying in seeing and knowing what is done everyday at Beauty's Haven. The tireless hours spent day in and day out 24/7 to save the unwanted, abused and neglected. If only there were more Beauty's Havens country wide
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Space and volunteers. The depressed economy. Increase of cruelty and abuse cases. Lackluster response of the courts and AC to prosecute so many blatant cruelty abuse cases.
One thing I'd also say is that...
Thank goodness for Beauty's Haven and all involved. They are held in very high esteem. It is such a highly physical, emotionally draining 'job' to endure. It is done with grace, love and compassion. Kudos to all.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
Beauty's Haven Farm & Equine Rescue is the quintessential rescue for horses. This farm is professionally managed & exquisitely run. BHFER tirelessly cares for each horse. They give daily updates, with photos, of the care each horse gets. They network with area horse professionals to do what they need to do in order to give the very best of care & rehab to each horse. Any money donated is acknowledged & an end of the year report for tax purposes is promptly sent to each supporter. Beauty's Haven has only the very best interest of each horse in mind. Donations are gratefully received and used for the specific purpose of caring for the horses & improving the farm for the sole purpose of the horses' care, comfort & safety. When one donates their hard-earned dollars to BHFER, they can be assured that their money is going to a great cause, and $5.00 is as appreciated as $500, as it all comes from the heart. From the moment BHFER brings rescued horses onto the property, they are loved and cared for immensely. When the time comes that the horse can no longer live comfortably, BHFER is there to gently & lovingly help that animal cross. Beauty's Haven Farm and Equine Rescue is a class act. Donate & volunteer with pride & confidence.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Daily updates, before, during and after photos of rescued horses & end of the year tax documentation.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Provided I had the funds, I'd buy up adjacent acreage, add more fencing, shelters & barns & send more volunteers to help. All these "changes" would merely enhance an already existing wonderful operation!
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
I see my money is going to a GREAT cause and the horses get the very best loving care they so desperately need.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
...completely dedicated to the cause of rescuing as many horses as possible & giving them the very best of care.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
...continue operating as they are but on a much larger scale. The animals would be the biggest benefactors!
Ways to make it better...
...I could be sure that there are other rescues of this caliber.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
..there is not enough time in a day & not enough volunteers.
One thing I'd also say is that...
...I wish Theresa could clone herself & that horse owners could have half the heart that Theresa does.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I first became involved with Beauty's Haven Equine Rescue in July, 2008. I'm a member of Alex Brown Racing forum and some of my friends were involved with Beauty's Haven and I was sent an email. I started receiving updates from Beauty's Haven and I've become attached to the horses. I have visited 4 times since May, 2009. I donate money and food. I have seen miracles happen. Horses that were near death (from 3 weeks old and up). There are many miracles at Beauty's Haven. They all have a story. Theresa took in 7 horses a few weeks ago, babies and mares. In just a few days, you could see the difference in these horses. The difference is hay, water and shelter and most important LOVE. I have witnessed this many times. Some horses are to far gone and they let you know it is time to let them go, Theresa gives them all a last kiss and hug and they walk up to Frosty's Knoll with dignity (some are in so much pain they can't walk) they get a shot to relieve them of the pain, so they can make that walk, and there they die peacefully surrounded by those that love them. One volunteer comes from Puerto Rico 3-4 times a year and stays sometimes up to two months. People come from all over to visit Beauty's Haven. I admire Theresa Batchelor so much, she is an angel to these horses, without her, many of these horses would just die by themselves in someone's pasture. I only wish I was rich, because my money would go to Beauty's Haven.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Seeing in person what love and care do for a horse, emotionally, physically and mentally. I've seen horses that have been so abused mentally and physically transform into a happy, healthy, trusting horses.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
More volunteers and more funding.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Seeing the miracles of Beauty's Haven, hearing their stories through words and pictures, and see depressed, starving animals transform into happy, healthy animals.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Very dedicated loving people. People drive from hours away to volunteer at Beatuy's Haven and onelady comes from Puerto Rico several times a year. That's dedication.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Provide all the shelter, food and medical needs that they need. Hopefully pay for regular volunteers that are their daily and provide some training for people that are willing to help, but do not have experience handling horses.
Ways to make it better...
I wish I could dontate my time and help with the horses. I live two hours away, but right now I have family responsabilites that prevent me spending time.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Funding and volunteers. Theresa needs regular volunteers that can be there every day.
One thing I'd also say is that...
Theresa gives of herself to the horses 24/7, she goes without sleep and their needs come before hers, she would go without. Theresa very rarely leaves the farm for too long, she worries about her horses so much.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every month
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
Beauty's Haven Farm and Equine Rescue in Morriston, Florida (owned and operated by Theresa Batchelor) is the Gold Standard in horse rescue. Ms. Batchelor is ably assisted by a cadre of volunteers, in addition to fostering facilities as the need arises when it is imperative to make room for horses who are in eminent physical/medical danger requiring immediate intervention/medical attention. Ms. Batchelor's long-range goal is to rehabilitate the horses under her auspices with an eye toward a "forever home". This is something Ms. Batchelor takes extremely seriously. Applicants are carefully screened before one of Ms. Batchelor's charges are released. Following successful rehabilitation and placement in a forever home, welfare checks are conducted, ensuring the horses are living in an environment that benefits/optimizes their specific needs and requirements. Not often, but occasionally, horses have returned to Beauty's Haven where their welfare is first and foremost. Facilities at Beauty's Haven are clean and tidy, with ample shelter via out-buildings, lean-to's and shade trees to accommodate the horses during Florida's hot, humid summers. Misters, sprinklers and such assist in keeping Ms. Batcherlor's charges comfortable, in addition to being bathed, well-fed, medical attention as needed (including holistic care), and yes ... all are well-loved. Each new arrival is given the traditional "Beauty's Haven Hug" letting them know their former down-on-their-luck situation has come to an end. They have found a safe haven and shelter from the storm(s) of life. I became acquainted with Beauty's Haven as an FOB (Fans of Barbaro) via the Alex Brown Racing Forum devoted initially to BARBARO, in addition to horse rescue, ending horse slaughter, etc. Ms. Batchelor provides daily updates WITH PHOTOS on the ABR Forum. Full accountability for those who support this worth-while endeavor. With a profound gladness of heart, I salute Theresa Batchelor and her dedicated volunteers at Beauty's Haven Equine Farm and Rescue in Morriston, Florida. This organization IS the GOLD STANDARD all rescues should use as a template for this noble endeavor. Susan E. Hopkins Elizabeth, Colorado
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Repeatedly .... with each rescue
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
..... ask for more local volunteers to aide and assist Ms. Batchelor in virtually every area.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
Seeing the horses heal and redeem themselves physically and emotionally
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
I have not met any staff members in person ..... YET!
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
Help the most needy in our society: our voiceless animals
Ways to make it better...
I lived in Florida and could volunteer on a regular/daily basis
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Funding
One thing I'd also say is that...
Theresa Batchelor is my HERO. And there aren't many people I ascribe that term to.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
I adoped 2 percheron mares from Theresa. They are absolutely spectacular animals. One is right now in training for dressage with a world renowned trainer who says our horse is a PRINCESS, she is extremely impressed with her. It just goes to show that any animal that Theresa touches turns out to be wonderful. Thankyou to Theresa and Beauty's Haven. Hugs Pat (MyMollyMp)
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
seeing on a daily basis the work that Theresa does with these animals. I feel honored to know her and her work. Pat
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
nothing
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
seeing the horses saved from starvation and abuse
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
kind and caring
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
save even more horses
Ways to make it better...
I could have been closer to help.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
getting donations.
One thing I'd also say is that...
there is no one like Theresa with the animals.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
One time
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
When the gates of Beauty's Haven open miracles happen! It's as simple as that. Once a horse becomes part of the 'family', he/she will never experience the neglect and abuse it had so horribly suffered. A new life begins, with caring, nurturing, and lots of love. A friend of mine had told me about Beauty's Haven, and all the wonderful happenings, and how they were in need of volunteers. Horses were always very special to me, but my knowlege was so limited, thinking they really wouldn't have a place for someone as green as me! To the contrary! I was greeted with open arms by Theresa and all who work there. It didn't take long to learn the basics of caring for the horses, and then I witnessed miracles....I saw a little colt come to terms with his blindness when paired with another loving colt. I saw~ starving emaciated mares/geldings become beautiful specimens, a loving mare living a happy life with a trachea, a foal that was standing by his dead mother now races and plays with his pasture mate, (who was transported in a van because of an emergency situation) and both show off to all! A young mare with a rune nose greets all with the most loving sloppy kisses! I can go on and on about all the angels at the rescue. All needs are met: hooficures, dental work, regular medications, special diets, acupuncture, massages, and again lots of love. And when the time comes that an ailing horse can not cope with the maladies of life; when it has "said" enough now...then it is helped to cross over with dignity and love. It has been an honor for me to help at Beauty's Haven. You see, those gates at Beauty's Haven work miracles on me as well! No personal problems can exist when you're in 'heaven on earth'!
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
the adoption of horses to loving families that have welcomed a newcomer into their homes and hearts. Some of them are taken to training facilities to help them become more adoptable (for riding). And for some ~ a sanctuary where every need is met.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
not change a thing. How can you change something where there are so many miracles happening? Theresa operates an effecient horse rescue using her talented ways, her heart, and her soul. I wish that she would never have to worry about money!!!!
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
I have had the opportunity to learn about horses and their needs. I have learned how forgiving these precious animals are! To see them come in starving, hurt, and neglected,and become happy, loving,and beautiful is priceless!
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Everyone is very caring about the horses. It's about working together to help the horses. We are shown what to do for the ailing, always safety first!Workshops presented allowed us to learn how to enter paddocks with frisky ones.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
rescue more abused and neglected horses. Theresa would be able to create 'visiting minis' to frequent nursing homes, and hospitals. Children with needs could benefit with programs that would allow them interaction with the horses ~ riding, caring, etc.
Ways to make it better...
My experiences are on going, and are constantly getting better as my knowlege increases.
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
the increasing number of abused and neglected horses! It is so hard to say no to a horse in need! It is very frustrating to witness this, and not much is done to the owners for these outrageous acts of abuse.
One thing I'd also say is that...
I do not understand why it is so hard to prosecute these abusers...Why are they not required to pay retribution, something......I know our job is to give these horses a second chance, and they have it.....at Beauty's Haven.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
Beauty Haven is a safe haven for horses that have suffered from abuse, neglect, etc. and given love and caring.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
for the last 3 yrs.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
Volunteers needed.
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
The caring and the attention give to each horses individual needs.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
Wonderful and devoted.
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
N/a
Ways to make it better...
N/A
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
Raising funds to support the rescue and the need for more volunteers.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
A friend told me of Beauty Haven Equine Rescue over 1 year ago. I got on the website and read a story of Zanyah a malnourished arabian mare that was left in a pasture to die after her knees had given out from a 300 lbs man galloping her across the pasture. My heart went out to her and they were asking for donations to help! I knew i had to help. My friend took me there and I have been a volunteer ever since. The Batchelor family that runs the rescue and the small staff dedicated staff of volunteers truly care about every horse that comes thru the rescue. Theresa does not skimp on medical,nutritional, hoofcare,dental,whatever needs to be done to rehabilitate every horse. She will find a way to get it done. Theresa knows no limits to helping all horses.If she hears of a horse in need, she won't rest till she does her best to get that horse help. There are just too many that need help and its discouraging to know that you cant help them all. Beauty's Haven is truly a blessed place. All the horses that are brought to this rescue just know that once they are here they are safe and will never know hunger or abuse again. Truly you can see the light return in their eyes and the relief in their hearts that they will know love and caring and never go another day hungryor beaten. Some are just too far gone when they arrive and if there is no hope they will cross "" RAINBOW BRIDGE"" knowing their last days were filled with love and they will cross with dignity. All horses are evaluated by the veternarian when they arrive, their teeth and hooves are attended too and a refeeding program is started to slowly put on weight if they need it. So you can just imagine the costs of treating 30 plus horse and the time involved. Theresa runs on very little sleep and her family has dedicated their lives to helping these horse and she depends on the volunteers and the wonderful people who donate to this cause. The horses deserve a 2nd chance and it is truly amazing to see them trust humans again after they have been so abused by humans. To sum it up :: Going thru the Gates to Beauty's Haven Equine Rescue is probably what it feels like to have died and Gone to Heaven for these horses and you really see they way the other horses at the rescue let them know that they are safe now.
Photos
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
My personal experience with Beauty Haven has given new meaning to the word HOPE& LOVE & CARING. Even though there are many tears of sadness to see what these horses have endured at the hands of humans you truly feel nothing but HOPE & LOVE
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
The changes would be to have more people get involved to learn what is happening to"OUR HORSES'if you see horses in abusive situations to please call law enforcement for help.Be persistant,volunteer some time,support this rescue,HELP US HELP HORSES
More feedback...
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
THE UNENDING AMOUNT OF DEVOTION & LOVE TO REHABILITATING EACH HORSE. EVEN IF IT MEANS SLEEPING ROUND THE CLOCK IN THE BARN TO STAY WITH A SICK HORSE. GOT TO MEET SO MANY PEOPLE THAT CARE.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
THE STAFF IS RELENTLESS AND HAVE SACRIFICED EVERY MINUTE OF THEIR LIVES TO HELPING HORSES. THE VOLUNTEERS ARE CARING WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHEN YOU ARE BEAUTY HAVEN ALL YOUR PERSONAL PROBLEMS DONT REALLY COMPARE TO WHAT THESE HORSE HAVE ENDURED
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
THEY COULD EXPAND TO HELP ALL THE ABUSED AND NEGLECTED HORSES, SET UP A PROGRAM FOR HANDICAPPED CHILDREN, CHILDREN IN ABUSIVE FAMILIES, WHERE THEY COULD HELP TO REHABILITATE EACH,EDUCATE PEOPLE ON HORSE CARE
Ways to make it better...
IF ONLY I COULD MAKE MORE TIME IN MY PERSONAL LIFE TO BE THERE TO HELP MORE.IF ONLY MORE PEOPLE WOULD FEEL THE NEED TO HELP THE HORSES
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
GETTING THE LAWS TO CHANGE TO PROTECT THE ANIMALS. GETTING PEOPLE TO STOP ABUSING ANIMALS AND CALL FOR HELP IF YOU CANT CARE FOR YOUR PETS. THIS IS RUN SOLELY ON DONATIONS AND IF PEOPLE GOT MORE INVOLVED THEY WOULD WANT TO HELP.
One thing I'd also say is that...
I AM GRATEFUL FOR BEING A VOLUNTEER IN THIS WONDERFUL PLACETO HELP THERE IS A LOT OF WORK TO DO AT ALL TIMES AND WHEN I GO THERE I KNOW THAT ANYTHING THE VOLUNTEERS DO,NO MATTER HOW SMALL IS SO APPRECIATED. WE TRULY FEEL A PART OF THE RESCUE.
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About every week
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
Filter by reviewer role:
Support This Nonprofit
Help this nonprofit get more reviews
5 tips for getting reviews