I have been saving, helping and loving blind horses for almost 20 years. I used to be like everyone else – totally oblivious to the problem of equine blindness. I could not even imagine an animal as large and powerful as a horse being unable to see. How would they function? Would they just walk around bumping into fences, trees and each other? I wondered, “Would they be angry because of what they were missing?”
Well, after nearly two decades and many sightless horses of all breeds and ages, I now know the answers to some of those questions. Keeping in mind that all horses, like humans, are different from one another, and there are always exceptions to every rule. But, for the majority of blind horses, I can say with some certainty that, unlike humans, they do not spend time feeling sorry for themselves. A blind horse is just a horse that can’t see. After losing their sight they need an adjustment period to re-discover their surroundings. They are usually cautious at first, but sometimes they appear to panic and may move about in an uncontrollable manner. If you have a horse you suspect is having vision problems, please contact your vet and keep the horse in a stall until an educated diagnosis helps you decide the best way forward.
You really can continue to care for and love your blind horse. Once you needed him, now he needs you.
Rainhill currently cares for 52 horses, 39 of which are blind. I accepted another blind horse this week from a kill pen in Harmony, PA. He is a five-year-old Standardbred, a former race horse that was being used as a buggy horse until he lost his sight. His name is Mr. Tonk, which we know because of the freeze brand on his neck. Mr. Tonk arrived here late on Wednesday night after a very long journey. The following morning, he was up and ready for breakfast when I arrived at the barn. I always try to imagine what they must be thinking as they are moved about with no say-so. Even with the sighted horses we take in, the first few weeks are always the hardest for them as they must wonder, “Where are my friends?” and, “When am I going home?” Well, for Mr. Tonk, Rainhill is now his home. He will be cared for and loved just like the rest of the horses that call Rainhill their home.
Mr. Tonk would love to have a sponsor to help with the cost of his care and feeding. The sponsorship is $25 a month or a $300 one-time yearly donation. I will send you updates and photos and you can visit this handsome horse or any of our residents. Just call first to make sure I’m available.
As a new year is about to begin, I would love to thank everyone who so generously donates to Rainhill, making this “mission to help blind horses” a success. I could not do this important work without your help, and I feel blessed to have the strength, courage and determination to make these horses’ lives worth living.
Stay safe, be well and bless you for caring!
-by Karen Thurman
Rainhill Equine Facility
11125 Ky. Hwy. 185
Bowling Green, KY 42101
270-777-3164
