Last Chance - Midnight Deadline

Friends,

Our winter online newsletter still is not posted, yet I urge you to think about giving, and thanks to those who already have donated in 2012.

As everywhere, our needs are great, and hay prices are doubled.  We need your help to continue our mission for the horses.  As you also know, we are a hard-working group of volunteers who will go to the ends of the earth for Standardbreds, and any other horse in need within our ability to do so.

Help us help the ones we have already had the privilege of serving, whether here at our sanctuary, a rescued horse, or a horse loved by its owner as a racing champion, who now wants to know its horse lives in safety, peace, and help with ASAP.

There are buttons on the home page of our site for your convenience - whether it is $5 or $500, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your gift!

See the full gallery on Posterous

URGENT - Busy Longstockings and Delectable - Nowhere To Go

OK everyone, this is the frustrating part of what we do.  Human nature can be a bit unpredictable.  First of all, hats off to the owner of these two mares, who got the vet out to draw coggins and do an interstate health  certificate for horses to travel to Wisconsin.  This all takes a bit of time, especially with the holidays........meanwhile...........

the people who went through the process to be approved to adopt decided to take in two other rescues - two colts six and seven months old, locally.  This leaves no room at the inn for the mares.  While this does not seem fair, and is quite frustrating, I believe that the right person will come along.  Thanks so much to Joe for his patience as we scramble to assist him in placing the girls.  If you can help, please contact Sue at 608-792-5126 or asapinc@mwt.net

Up Periscope - Now Available!

"Peri" is a 17+ hand Standardbred gelding.  He was adopted by a woman who has kept him  since age 2.  He is now 12, and in foster care in Hortonville.  Peri was retrained to saddle by his adopter.  He has not been ridden for a year, so will need some refreshing.  This horse can ride and drive, and is sound.  Please contact Sue with any more questions at 608-792-5126 cell or asapinc@mwt.net

Here is his breeding - impressive!

UP PERISCOPE (WC9955, H) TATTLER'S TORPEDO - YOUNG WAVE - NIATROSS

GENERAL INFORMATION
Foaling Date:	04/06/2000	Sex:	Horse
Foaling Place:	MARTINSVILLE IL	Color:	Bay
Tattoo:		Freezebrand:	WC995
Death Date:		S&D Last Year:
Markings:	STAR; LEFT HIND ANKLE; RIGHT HIND PASTERN WHITE, HIGHER IN BACK.

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End of Year Musings

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are accomplished - never watched The Nativity Story, which was so important for me to see with my family, but all of you know that even the best laid plans of mice and men.........combined with a horrible case of flu among most of our family members, has delayed the perfect plan.   

 We all were together, we all attended church, we honored God for sending His son, we were amazed at His grace and blessings, and now face the end of 2012 with mixed feelings.   

   I came home tonite along with my family, all of us coughing, sneezing, headaches, congestion, aching and weak beyond belief,  but still keeping our chins up.  I remember my mother's brave decade or more with her Parkinsons, her tragedies in losing my father and all of her belongings in a house fire two weeks prior, and realizing that life just isn't fair, yet God promises to be with us through it all, and my mom stood on that promise.  There is a gaping hole in my heart still, but I realize mom is celebrating along with the Lord in places we cannot even comprehend, and before we know it we will join her.  Not that I am in a hurry, but as life goes along we realize there are no guarantees for any of us, and faith is really important.    

  I am reflecting back upon my life and missing so many influential people. People who introduced me to the world that I was so passionate about, despite my parents scratching their heads and hoping it was just a phase - the world of horses.  I am reflecting back upon my best friend, Perri, and her mom and dad, Shirley and Al, all of which are still actively involved in the horse world.  They were the first family I knew as a three year old, and I was magnetized to their place where I grew up in the Almaden Valley because their life was what I dreamed of - horses, dogs, cats, even rats!  I got my first taste of riding with them, and my love for horses deepened as I grew into something I could not contain.  My dad "relocated" us to Wisconsin when I was 15 ( you don't want to do that to a 15 year old by the way) for a more "wholesome" lifestyle.  My rebellion at being in Wisconsin blossomed, but many good things eventually came of it.  I met people who shared my passion for horses.  My dad "fenangled" a deal where a local farmer could have free pasture for one of his mares in exchange for me being able to ride the red Quarter horse named Lady in the late 70's.  I can't tell you how many times I called Bernie up, wanting to know why his steady mare had bucked me off! He let me figure it out...........and before long I was riding her from my parents farm to Chaseburg all by myself - about an 8 mile ride.  I met so many horse people back then - there were grill-outs, bar b cues, trail rides, wagon rides, and there were people willing to come pick me up and let me tag along.  I met Ray Wangen back when I was 14.  I did not have a horse to ride (someone was using my Lady from Bernie), so Ray brought an 28 year old "Indian pony" with one blue eye for me to take on a 2 day trail ride out by Cashton.  I was so nervous my heart was POUNDING.  I got on that old gelding and half way up the trail to the top of the hill the pony/horse decided this was not for him and he began all the antics he could to get me off.  I eventually flew off him and landed, and I heard lots of laughter.  LAUGHTER!  Then Ray's voice telling me to get back on. If my dad had known this......I dont' even want to tell you what he would have done, but I sucked it up and got back on, petrified.  We finished the ride, and I was hooked.  Between my childhood friend and my Wisconsin experiences, my love for animals and the horse has become a lifetime passion that won't go away.   

   All these years later, I begin to miss the influential people who have since passed.  We lost Ray in 1998, and I thought my heart would not endure, as my dad had just suffered a very serious heart attack that year and was in the hospital at the time of his funeral.  I went to my dad's bedside after Ray's funeral, with tear-stained eyes, recounting how the Amish community had come together to be at Ray's funeral for all he had done for them.  The funeral procession included Ray's precious chuck wagon, pulled by one of his favorite teams, and people walking behind the wagon all the way from the funeral home to the church.  My dad listened, then said, "You don't need to be sad for him any more".  I never understood those words until later.    

  Just a couple of years ago we lost Bernie, the man who had given me my first ever horse who bucked me off until we learned how to get along with each other.  Bernie taught me how to be tough, how to get back on, and how to care for my first horse 24/7.  Lady taught me how to catch that hard to catch horse, and how to handle a bit of attitude. Bernie had a team of ponies that were sponsored by Rocky's Restaurant in Stoddard, so he was popular at many many parades throughout the years.  I saw him at Wild West Days about 3 summers ago and realized he had really slowed down, but was still out there in his late 80's doing what he loved.   

   Where are all of the old timers?  Am I now an old timer?  Do I continue to try to spread the love and passion as the people in my life did?  I don't think I'm old yet, but I realize there are less and less people with the passion around.......and it scares me.  Let me always continue to be an inspiration to anyone and everyone about the racing industry, the history of harness racing, the love of the sport, the overall love of horses, and the knowledge that Standardbreds make the best ever trail horses when they can no longer race.     

  Merry Christmas, everyone!!!  

Another Update

The Texas Ag Dept and USDA is assisting ASAP with attempting to recover
Magic.
We just sent two pictures to Jon Garza, official at the border, and if
Magic is there (if we can find out which port) they will do all they can
to save him.

There is some doubt about whether or not Magic actually shipped to Mexico,
since the kill buyer also takes horses to auctions and has his own.

If any of you know of any upcoming auctions in Thorpe or anywhere near
Black River Falls, please let me know. We would also love if someone were
able to check the kill buyer's property for positive ID on Magic.

We're doing all we can.

Sue

See the full gallery on Posterous

Another Update

The Texas Ag Dept and USDA is assisting ASAP with attempting to recover
Magic.
We just sent two pictures to Jon Garza, official at the border, and if
Magic is there (if we can find out which port) they will do all they can
to save him.

There is some doubt about whether or not Magic actually shipped to Mexico,
since the kill buyer also takes horses to auctions and has his own.

If any of you know of any upcoming auctions in Thorpe or anywhere near
Black River Falls, please let me know. We would also love if someone were
able to check the kill buyer's property for positive ID on Magic.

We're doing all we can.

Sue

See the full gallery on Posterous

Update on Magic

I will say that I am impressed with Paul G. Egrie at the United States
Department of Agriculture. He phoned me this morning after attempting to
reach kill buyer Steve Marg from BRF, who is not answering his phone
currently.

He said that it would be possible to stop the movement of Magic into
Mexico if we know what port he was taken to, and when. If we cannot
connect with Steve, this information cannot be gotten anywhere else.

I did get the number for the supervisor of the Texas TDA, who monitors
movement of horses into Mexico. Her name is Jessica - contact number is
512-463-8251. They would be willing, according to Mr. Egrie, to look for
Magic if they know WHICH Port...........auuughhh.........frustrating.

On the other hand, a very nice person who lost her horse to slaughter
after it was stolen from her, is assisting us with this. She thinks Steve
is also a dealer, and may keep horses back that are well trained or
gentle, and resell them. He, she feels, may lie about the horse being
shipped, to get us off his back. I think Steve not answering his phone
indicates to me that he may not want to divulge any more information.

I feel as though we have fought the good fight, and now it is in God's
hands. I will continue to try to reach Steve by text and phone. Anyone
else who wants to try to reach him, or Jessica, or Jon, or Mr. Egrie -
much appreciated.

For Magic..............and so many like him.

Update on Magic

I will say that I am impressed with Paul G. Egrie at the United States
Department of Agriculture. He phoned me this morning after attempting to
reach kill buyer Steve Marg from BRF, who is not answering his phone
currently.

He said that it would be possible to stop the movement of Magic into
Mexico if we know what port he was taken to, and when. If we cannot
connect with Steve, this information cannot be gotten anywhere else.

I did get the number for the supervisor of the Texas TDA, who monitors
movement of horses into Mexico. Her name is Jessica - contact number is
512-463-8251. They would be willing, according to Mr. Egrie, to look for
Magic if they know WHICH Port...........auuughhh.........frustrating.

On the other hand, a very nice person who lost her horse to slaughter
after it was stolen from her, is assisting us with this. She thinks Steve
is also a dealer, and may keep horses back that are well trained or
gentle, and resell them. He, she feels, may lie about the horse being
shipped, to get us off his back. I think Steve not answering his phone
indicates to me that he may not want to divulge any more information.

I feel as though we have fought the good fight, and now it is in God's
hands. I will continue to try to reach Steve by text and phone. Anyone
else who wants to try to reach him, or Jessica, or Jon, or Mr. Egrie -
much appreciated.

For Magic..............and so many like him.

MAGIC - TIME-SENSITIVE

Okay, here is what I know:

IF Magic did get transported already to Texas, there are two Texas
horse-slaughter plants. Any help that any of you can give to assist us in
contacting them in regards to Magic is much appreciated. I will go to the
ends of the earth to prevent this if at all possible.

DALLAS CROWN, Inc.
Phone: (972) 932-3436
email: info@dallascrown.com

BELTEX CORP
(817) 624-1136
email: ericn@onramp.net

I am going to start attempting contacts now - pray it isn't too late!

MAGIC - TIME-SENSITIVE

Okay, here is what I know:

IF Magic did get transported already to Texas, there are two Texas
horse-slaughter plants. Any help that any of you can give to assist us in
contacting them in regards to Magic is much appreciated. I will go to the
ends of the earth to prevent this if at all possible.

DALLAS CROWN, Inc.
Phone: (972) 932-3436
email: info@dallascrown.com

BELTEX CORP
(817) 624-1136
email: ericn@onramp.net

I am going to start attempting contacts now - pray it isn't too late!

ALERT - MAGIC ON KILL TRUCK

Despite my best efforts in trying to place Magic for the Amish gentleman,
despite the fact that he had this horse for 11 years and did not want to
wait for ASAP to find him a home, Magic was sold to a kill buyer for next
to nothing, and may be on his way to Texas for scheduled slaughter in
Mexico.

I stopped by this man's house to check on Magic today, and to advise him
we were working on foster care or an adoptive home as fast as we could. He grinned and said he just needed the horse gone, so Magic left with
Steve Marg, kill buyer from Black River Falls.

I got in my car, not knowing if I should hit the man or shame myself for
not taking Magic despite our great numbers here at the farm. I called my
friend Lori, and we brainstormed. Lori gave me Steve Marg's number, and I
have called and left messages for him. We have committed to bringing
Magic back if he can be saved before transport to Texas.

If any of you would mind standing up for Magic, please give Steve Marg a
call at 715-284-7004.

Let him know Magic is an ASAP horse, and that we would like to come and
pick him up. If I don't have several people assisting me with this, we
may lose every chance we have to spare his life. If someone can get Steve
to answer, we can hook up a trailer and be on our way, no matter what the
cost. Please help us!!!!!

Remember, the number is 715-284-7004. This is a sound horse - a wonderful
horse - who gave up his life to serve man. It is now time for man to
serve him.

ALERT - MAGIC ON KILL TRUCK

Despite my best efforts in trying to place Magic for the Amish gentleman,
despite the fact that he had this horse for 11 years and did not want to
wait for ASAP to find him a home, Magic was sold to a kill buyer for next
to nothing, and may be on his way to Texas for scheduled slaughter in
Mexico.

I stopped by this man's house to check on Magic today, and to advise him
we were working on foster care or an adoptive home as fast as we could. He grinned and said he just needed the horse gone, so Magic left with
Steve Marg, kill buyer from Black River Falls.

I got in my car, not knowing if I should hit the man or shame myself for
not taking Magic despite our great numbers here at the farm. I called my
friend Lori, and we brainstormed. Lori gave me Steve Marg's number, and I
have called and left messages for him. We have committed to bringing
Magic back if he can be saved before transport to Texas.

If any of you would mind standing up for Magic, please give Steve Marg a
call at 715-284-7004.

Let him know Magic is an ASAP horse, and that we would like to come and
pick him up. If I don't have several people assisting me with this, we
may lose every chance we have to spare his life. If someone can get Steve
to answer, we can hook up a trailer and be on our way, no matter what the
cost. Please help us!!!!!

Remember, the number is 715-284-7004. This is a sound horse - a wonderful
horse - who gave up his life to serve man. It is now time for man to
serve him.

BND's Best - URGENT

Ben, or BnD's Best, has been with the same family for many many years. Sadly, it is time for him to leave there, since the adopters can no longer
keep him.
BnD, or Ben, was donated to us as a young horse with a hip issue - but has
always gotten around okay with it. Over the years, he is a little more
arthritic in that hip and needs some Previcox or other meds to manage the
stiffness.
Ben is loving, kind, gentle, and almost black. He is a Standardbred. We
are in desperate need of a place for him to go for the winter - he is near
Viroqua, WI

If you have a knack with horses that have arthritis, or want to help just
because you are able, please contact us! We can provide the Previcox if
you are able to feed it. We don't have much time for Ben, or for Deon. Please help!

BND's Best - URGENT

Ben, or BnD's Best, has been with the same family for many many years. Sadly, it is time for him to leave there, since the adopters can no longer
keep him.
BnD, or Ben, was donated to us as a young horse with a hip issue - but has
always gotten around okay with it. Over the years, he is a little more
arthritic in that hip and needs some Previcox or other meds to manage the
stiffness.
Ben is loving, kind, gentle, and almost black. He is a Standardbred. We
are in desperate need of a place for him to go for the winter - he is near
Viroqua, WI

If you have a knack with horses that have arthritis, or want to help just
because you are able, please contact us! We can provide the Previcox if
you are able to feed it. We don't have much time for Ben, or for Deon. Please help!

K Macaroni!

Got some pics of K Macaroni today in her new home with Alice and Ray.
Thought I'd share - she is so adorable, and she is back in harness! Fun
to see.

See the full gallery on Posterous

K Macaroni!

Got some pics of K Macaroni today in her new home with Alice and Ray.
Thought I'd share - she is so adorable, and she is back in harness! Fun
to see.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Branson!

Here are some pictures taken last weekend. Daniel O Donnell was a joy to
talk with - we shared some emotion over my mom's passing. We were there in
honor of her to hear him sing.

Other pics are of my sister and brother in law and I (along with my hubby
Craig, not pictured) at Andy Williams' Grill and Stone Hill Winery.
Fun times!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Branson!

Here are some pictures taken last weekend. Daniel O Donnell was a joy to
talk with - we shared some emotion over my mom's passing. We were there in
honor of her to hear him sing.

Other pics are of my sister and brother in law and I (along with my hubby
Craig, not pictured) at Andy Williams' Grill and Stone Hill Winery.
Fun times!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Busy Longstockings and Delectable NEED HELP !

Received a message today from a gentleman who said time is running out for
Standardbred mares Busy Longstockings and Delectable. Delectable is
smaller and a red bay, very very sweet.

Busy Longstockings picture is on ASAP's horses avilable page - she is big
and stout and self-confident and tough. Not tough in a bad way - but has
a lot of good spirit and attitude.

Sadly, since ASAP is at 21 horses, we cannot take these mares. With more
funding, we could, but our hands are tied. I am reaching out to whoever
may be on the Illinois/Wisconsin border to give me a shout if you can
foster or adopt one or both mares - my feeling is that since they are
caught and are up near the barn, the plan for them cannot be good. It is
hard enough to place horses who are trained to saddle and less than 15
years old right now, lt alone trying to find loving homes for a harness
horse who has not been driven in awhile and has only been a brood mare. Truth is, these horses make fantastic riding horses (ask Eunice about
Pinedon, who was 16 and a brood mare when retrained to saddle and still
riding trails many years later today). Please help! I'll be on my cell
today in the afternoon at 608-792-5126 or email asapinc@mwt.net

The pics are of Busy Longstockings

See the full gallery on Posterous

Busy Longstockings and Delectable NEED HELP !

Received a message today from a gentleman who said time is running out for
Standardbred mares Busy Longstockings and Delectable. Delectable is
smaller and a red bay, very very sweet.

Busy Longstockings picture is on ASAP's horses avilable page - she is big
and stout and self-confident and tough. Not tough in a bad way - but has
a lot of good spirit and attitude.

Sadly, since ASAP is at 21 horses, we cannot take these mares. With more
funding, we could, but our hands are tied. I am reaching out to whoever
may be on the Illinois/Wisconsin border to give me a shout if you can
foster or adopt one or both mares - my feeling is that since they are
caught and are up near the barn, the plan for them cannot be good. It is
hard enough to place horses who are trained to saddle and less than 15
years old right now, lt alone trying to find loving homes for a harness
horse who has not been driven in awhile and has only been a brood mare. Truth is, these horses make fantastic riding horses (ask Eunice about
Pinedon, who was 16 and a brood mare when retrained to saddle and still
riding trails many years later today). Please help! I'll be on my cell
today in the afternoon at 608-792-5126 or email asapinc@mwt.net

The pics are of Busy Longstockings

See the full gallery on Posterous

Buckiron Stables - Hay

Dear Friends:

Today we had a round bale delivered and paid our hay bill with our current
hay supplier to the tune of $425.00

We have a mounting bill from Buckiron Stables in PA for the care of the
kill lot horses. The horses need to be transported, but we need homes.

Please consider giving (end of the year gifting = tax write-off).....or
opening your home to a horse in need of care!!!!

Sue
asapinc@mwt.net
www.4thehorses.com

Most Wanted

In reviewing our files, we have two horses which were transferred against
contract to another party.

If you have seen these horses please notify ASAP. Here is what we know:

Scout is a mini - he was originally adopted out to a retired police
officer from Chicago along with another mini, April. April was returned to
ASAP and successfully placed with a loving family in Minnesota, while
Scout was sent to a farm in Iowa. We believe he is still in Iowa, near
Lansing.

Son of Greek A - adopted by a woman from Minnesota years ago. She
apparently broke up with her boyfriend, and the boyfriend took the horse
to another stabling facility. The horse in in Minnesota, but the adopter
will not give out any further information. Son of Greek A is a
Standardbred gelding - we need to track down the person who has him in
their possession so that they can sign a contract to continue to have
them.

Thanks for any help you can give us!

See the full gallery on Posterous

In Memory

We were very saddened to hear of the passing of two great horses:

Stylish Sharon

and

Star Duster

Sharon made over $250,000 before being retired and used as a brood mare
before coming to ASAP. ASAP struggled with her health issues over the
years, doing our best to keep her weight up while also treating thyroid
issues. Sharon went to a foster home this past year and lost weight
steadily, and had trouble with her hips and legs. She passed away Sunday
night. She was going to be 27 years old.

Star Duster was a 25 year old mare who was originally a Michigan horse. She came to ASAP many years ago after retirement in Illinois, and was
adopted by Joan Dixon of South Dakota. Starduster enjoyed many happy
years with Joan, and produced a couple of babies for Joan's family to love
and enjoy as they do today. Starduster had been losing weight over the
summer months and, although her eyes were bright, the adopter Joan could
not justify trying to keep her going over the winter months. It was one
of the hardest things Joan had ever done, and her tearful message over the
telephone reflected the love she had for her.

Rest In Peace!

Manic Monday

What a great weekend!
Besides the usual horse/riding activity, I got to reconnect with old
neighbors and friends, and make some new ones, all the while sharing our
passion for horses. One 8 year old little girl was so enthusiastic about
chores! She wanted to fill water tanks and do all the feeding! Afterwards, she got to go on her first ever horse ride on Janimal. Wish I
had gotten pictures!

Sunday was AMAZING.....what a feeling to have all four of my children here
at home for a Packer party - the shouting could be heard by all our
neighbors. One of Rachel's friends had never been here for a Packer party
before - she couldn't believe the enthusiasm and "high 5's"!!!

Monday was not so fun - had to have oral surgery....and doctor's orders
for no bale lifting or bucket-carrying. Thanks to Jordan H. for coming to
help with chores, and thanks to Emily for offering to donate her time to
help!!

Also on Saturday, we met the placing owners of a wonderful 16 year old
SHIRE DRAFT mare. This mare is reportedly bombproof. She rides and
drives- stands about 16 hands - and spent the better part of her life with
the Amish before these wonderful people purchased her from the kill pen. She is sound and healthy - couple is just at a point in their lives where
they do not wish to own horses. Don't miss out on this prize - we have
even been told that she could be a fantastic therapy horse!!!!!!

See the full gallery on Posterous

BUCKSKIN QH GELDING AND STUNNING APPALOOSA GELDING NEED HOMES IMMEDIATELY!

5 year old buckskin gelding - with limited training, but gentle and easy
going - needs immediately placement. Leads, ties, some training under
saddle. Sound, healthy - owner relocating and cannot take him along.

Excalibur, beautiful dark Appaloosa with white blanket, pictures available
on web site at www.4thehorses.com - sound, healthy, comes with buckskin or
can be separated - same owner - relocating and cannot take them with her.

Horses are in La Crescent Minnesota and MUST BE PLACED BY NOV. 1!!!!
Call Sue at 608-792-5126 or email asapinc@mwt.net

URGENT NEEDS

Two horses - gelding and mare - one Saddlebred gelding and one aged
Standardbred mare - need moving from Wausau area. Mare will need special
care and feed to maintain weight.

Two horses - Michigan - need immediate placement - Sweet Billy N and Homie
- sound beautiful Standardbreds - Homie trained to ride, Billy needs some
retraining. Both are healthy.

Horses in Pennsylvania spared from kill broker lot - Standardbreds - sound
and healthy, need transport to mid west, need foster care or adoption. Firstkin and Amish gelding.........

Thanks for looking! Contact asapinc@mwt.net or call Sue's cell at
608-792-5126 if you can help.

Hay Needed

Please contact ASAP if you have hay to sell - no matter how little or how
much - looking for small squares but will buy large squares or rounds!
We want to stock up!

608-792-5126 cell or email asapinc@mwt.net

Poor Scorpio

A big thanks to Jan M. for volunteering her time to drive 194 miles to
pick up Scorpio, who has been abandoned by his adopters and was given the
minimum needed to get by at the boarding barn.

Scorpio was in danger of getting on a dealer's truck, but again thanks to
Jan for stepping up before the boarding facility owner could get one
there.

Scorpio will need tons of attention to get him back up to weight and heal
his wounds from ???. He also needs farrier care and deworming. He is
currently in Janesville. If you can help, please let Sue know!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Sponsorship for Taser Gun

Hello everyone!

Taser Gun has shown incredible improvement since his stifle injection and
subsequent prevacox treatment. I am hoping that by spring he will be
rideable again! He has gained much weight back, and is running in pasture
now. Thanks to Dr. Marge for her support during this trial to see if the
treatment would work.

Now we are faced with continuing his treatment, which will cost $60 per
month for the prevacox. ASAP simply cannot afford this, having less than
$100 in the account at this time since purchase of hay and feed. We need
someone willing to donate the cost of the prevacox. Does anyone remember
this great race horse? Will anyone step up to help him?

Sue

See the full gallery on Posterous

MAGIC!

Available for adoption:

Stunning 13 year old half SADDLEBRED half STANDARDBRED gelding. Raised by
a woman and initially trained by her, he was then sold to an Amish family
in the area who have taken great care of him.

Flashy, red bay, can ride or drive! Sound. Gentle. Beginner safe.

If interested please give Sue a call at 608-792-5126 or email
asapinc@mwt.net

URGENT NEED - HORSE IN DANGER OF DEALER TRUCK IN ILLINOIS

We have a horrible situation where the adopters have abandoned a gelding
and are six months behind on board.

The boarding barn owner in Momence, Illinois is threatening to dispose of
the horse immediately.

We thought we had help coming from someone in Crete, but barn policies
have changed and Scorpio is unable to go there due to not having current
coggins or vaccinations.

We need someone willing to pick up Scorpio before he is sent off to ???,
and ASAP will assist in getting blood drawn for a coggins and getting the
vaccinations. He eventually would come into foster care in Wisconsin.

We are dealing with short fuses right now and if there is anyone who lives
near Momence who can help, PLEASE email me!
asapinc@mwt.net
or call
608-792-5126

I don't get cell service at home, so text me if you can't reach me by
phone! I will try to rally some donations for gas for anyone willing to
go.

Quarter Horse Filly Cable-Tied to Corn Crib

I was on my way home from work yesterday and saw an upside down board sign
nailed to a post that was painted HORSE.

I stopped in at the well-groomed Amish farm to inquire, believing the
horse might be a Standardbred that I could advocate for.

I stood outside in the cold wind until an older woman emerged and I asked
her if she knew about the horse for sale. She commented that she didn't
know "nothin" about the horses so went to get her daughter or daughter in
law in the next house. In the meantime, an open cart came up the driveway
being pulled by a bay pony that I later found out was a Haflinger. The
open cart was stuffed full of Amish boys coming home from school, coolers
stacked in the back. The Amish boys piled out, curious about why I was
standing there. They were proud to tell me about the pony. The pony was
in good flesh and healthy. Just then, the father came from the back field
with two large drafts being led by only a rope around the neck. The
drafts were well cared for, and almost overweight.

I anxiously asked if they knew which horse was for sale. The man kept
walking by with the horses and the boys and their mother pointed to a corn
crib type shed with a small sorrel filly tied on the end of a cable. The
green grass was eaten down to nubs, and there was no hay or water nearby.

The first thing I noted was that both rear fetlocks were sliced up and
swollen. "Oh, yes" they commented, "that's rope burns from getting
caught". I asked if they ever untied her from the end of the cable and
they said they did not because she was hard to catch. Their story was
that they were gifted the QH filly from another Amish. They hoped to train
her, but she has trust issues. I approached her and she moved away from
me. She behaved like the first mustang I owned on the first day home from
auction. No trust. No life. No spirit. Broken. Tired. Afraid.

The wounds on her back legs have not been treated. I can see her ribs.
They would like to get $50 or offer for her. If you think you can help,
please call me or email me and we'll go over to the farm together in
Hillsboro.

My next stop was at a farm near Ontario, WI. An Amish man had called me
about an "older" gelding he was looking for a home for. This farm was
also neat and clean, and a sign for the business which sells hickory bent
furniture was visible. I followed the wood smoke inside the furniture
store and found John. John said he has a 13 year old
SADDLEBRED/STANDARDBRED cross. He has had him for 11 years. He bought
him from an English woman and he has done everything from riding to
driving. Little kids can drive him down the highway and anyone can ride
him. He is a proud red bay color. He does not appear to have arthritis
but says every once in awhile his feet get sore. After 11 years on the
road we can probably empathize! His name is Magic. He is very fond of
this horse and only wants the best for him. If you are interested please
let me know - he sounds like a winner!!!!!

Sue

Surprise Visit

I had a semi-surprise visit from a former student of mine Saturday!

He came with his mom, grandma, and sister. They all fell in love with the
puppies, and I had a chance to show Nate Sheba, my Appaloosa of 26 years.

It warmed my heart to have them here! Nate and his sister may be future
day campers!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Scorpio Must Go - Help In Illinois Needed

Ok, very busy here this week.

The good news is that the mare in California DOES have a place to go and
will be spared if she has not already been euthenized.

Now the call from Momence IL stating that Scorpio must get out "or else".
This gelding is sound and a GREAT jumper - trained in the English
discipline and ready to go for someone.

Since the ASAP adopter has defaulted on board, the boarding barn is
anxious to see him O-U-T and will sell him off to a dealer if we can't
step up to get him.

Please email Susan if you are able to help.
Other urgent needs include:

Sweet Billy N - from UP in Michigan to new home

Homie - in Michigan - needing a place before winter

Cavalier - 12 year old half-Arab - southwest Wisconsin - this is an ASAP
horse that must be rehomed. He is currently with BND's Best, a STB
gelding who is a pasture pal to Cavalier. Cavalier is trained but will
need some refreshing

Two STB Amish horses - one mare - teens - needs home immediately

One STB gelding - "still drives, but is getting slower" - "older gelding"

Please help us help them!

Sue

California Horses, Pennsylvania Horses - SOS

We received word from a rescue in California that there is a mare who is
scheduled for euthenasia if a home cannot be located for her. She is at a
humane society in Bakersfield, from what we understand.

If anyone has a connection and can help, please let us know!

The Honeybrook Standardbreds are ready for transport but still we have no
source of transport for them. Firstkin, and the Amish gelding also need
good homes. Their lives have been spared, so hoping the people who were
meant to be in their lives now come forward.

Over the weekend there was a case of severe neglect in our area, resulting
in at least one horse dead by Saturday and another that people are
attempting to help down in the trailer during transport. Hope to have
details on this soon.

Please help us network to save the horses!
Susan

Kill Lot Horses Must Be Moved

We got the word from the quarantine/layover barn this week that Firstkin
and the Amish gelding MUST be moved.

They have accumulated a $12 per horse per day bill, and ASAP is going to
owe a shipper approximately $800-$900 to have Pine Hill Willie, Firstkin,
and the Amish gelding hauled to our location.

Once here, homes must be located immediately to avoid overflow at the farm.
The contact number for the woman who is asking us to move horses is
201-233-1024.

Thank you in advance for any ideas/suggestions/or help!

Susan

PUPPIES!

We have eight precioius half Springer Spaniel / half Treeing Tennessee
Brindle pups to find good homes for.
Two chocolate and six black with white points.
Two males and six females!
Let Sue know if you are interested - they'll be ready in 1.5 weeks - first
shots and worming.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Titan Held for Ransom

While ASAP scrambles to assist Bell Valley Titan find transportation and a
foster farm or adoptive home, we are thankful for Lou for stepping up to
offer to transport.

We did contact Double Dutch Ranch to inform them of a pickup date but
Titan is now being held there until her board from September 15 to present
can be paid.

ASAP is working diligently with the adopter to get this settled so Titan
can be helped.

Just think where ASAP would be if we could charge board for horses who
have come here for the past 18 years, and the many, including Bob Cook,
ARNE, Haiaku, Precious KC, Asha, Brandy who have never found homes? Thanks to all of you for supporting ASAP for so long and having faith in
us to care for and love all the horses unconditionally.

URGENT SITUATION IN MALONE WI

If anyone is located near Malone, WI and can help transport a STB mare
from Double Dutch Ranch to De Soto or a qualified foster farm, please let
Sue know immediately at 608-792-5126 or email
asapinc@mwt.net

The mare is sound and healthy and loads and hauls like a dream. Immediate
assistance sought - PLEASE.

Also SOS - Sue received word of an "older Standardbred gelding" owned by
an Amish man near Cashton who needs a place to go. The horse is healthy
and sound - thinking he is around 12-14 years but can get specifics. Amish are asking $250. Please contact Sue if you can help!

Being Where God Wants You To Be

Dear Friends and Supporters:

Sometimes when God gives you a mission, you go about it in faith, no
matter what people say, even those closest to you who view caring for His
creatures as more of a burden than a pleasure.

I swear that the only thing that has kept me going these past four weeks
after mom's death has been the need for me to care for things other than
myself. I have looked forward to coming home and feeding, watering,
fencing, grooming, and riding. I have fulfilled my needs by being
available to help other things more helpless than myself.

I have sometimes been scrutinized for this, but today came confirmation
that we are exactly where God wants us. We were recently audited (a
yearly occurrence) by Dept of Ag state of Wisconsin. Our files are
examined for many details. That went very well, and the agent asked if we
had sent in the fee for our equine market license for the year. I
cringed. I opened, in front of him, a certified letter we had just
received but not opened. There was the renewal application with a fee
owing of $330 - PAST DUE. I told the agent we would be sending it off in
the mail.

I told the Lord I was writing out a check in faith - that He would
provide. I had no idea how, and I did not send out a plea for assistance
with this. Still,, I knew without the equine market license we could not
operate.

Yesterday I opened Pay Pal and noted a $200 donation from Lori H. TIMING!
Then today in the mail came a wonderful letter from a family who adopted
Pinedon years ago. The picture showed a little boy up on this beautiful
big STB, along with mom and dad. My eyes widened when I saw a gift of
$500 for ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you Eunice and family!!!!

Now, that is confirmation. God always comes through, thanks to you. And
you. And you. We can continue, with His blessing, to serve His creation. I just hope we all maintain good health and attitude to do it. But, after
today, there is no doubt we will! Yay God.

End Of The Line No More!

Hi friends,

Not sure how ASAP is getting more and more involved in assisting other
individuals and groups with last minute rescue of Standardbreds, but we
appreciate everyone's efforts so very much.

Two Standardbreds who were tied to slaughter trucks were spared through
donations of a meager $85. Transport is being arranged for them to ASAP
if no other homes can be found. Here are pics of two of them - makes your
heart cry out!

We continue our mission to serve the racing industry, but cannot ignore
the ones who miss ASAP the first time around, and end up in situations
like these where now ASAP may also be able to help.

If you appreciate our efforts, don't forget to support us!
Thanks to Lori H. for her recent donation, and Eunice D who has Pinedon!

See the full gallery on Posterous

Looking for DVD's of You and Your Standardbreds

Do you have a copy of any dvd's of you and your STB doing something
special? It could be a competitive endurance drive or ride, a trail ride,
a demo at a recent horse fair, or you teaching your horse a neat trick.

If you do, and you can send ASAP a copy of it before November 1, let Sue
know - she is gathering a few to combine into one dvd for presentation
before a certain group - email me to ask who and why!

Sue
asapinc@mwt.net

608-792-5126

Horses tied to slaughterhouse truck

There is nothing more powerless than having someone email me and saying
that Standardbreds who are sound and healthy have been paid for to spare
them from slaughter, but no one came.
No one came for them.
No room at the farms.
No foster families willing to step up.
No room at the rescues, the adoption programs, no room in someone's heart.

Right this very minute there are horses tied up at some strange location
to a slaughterhouse truck while people with compassion beg for the kill
buyers not to take them. One more minute. Someone will come along.
Someone will care.
Right now - soon - PLEASE don't take them.

Can it be ASAP that will be there for these horses?
Can anyone volunteer to help by giving one of them a place to go?
PLEASE call me at 608-792-5126 or email asapinc@mwt.net

Fair, Needs, and Kill Lot Horses

Hello friends!

I want to say I am very proud of my children for their accomplishments
during this year's Vernon County Fair. Rachel took a first place trophy,
two blue ribbons, and two red with her horse for walk/trot, and costume
(the first places), and halter class and catalogue race (thanks to Alicia
P too!).

She also placed second (red ribbon) with her rabbit, Lulu.

Zach entered photography, and we quickly found out that if you want a blue
ribbon, make sure your pictures reflect the Vernon County area. Zach had
entered several pics of our vacation and California. Guess the judge is
partial to Wisconsin! Tilly the donkey's picture did win a third.

Zach and Rachel both brought their kittens to the fair. Rachel took a
blue ribbon with Scarlet the gray tabby, and Zach and June the tabby and
white kitten took a red!

I am EXHAUSTED but did have a great time watching the harness races and
handing out fliers to spectators. I also got the opportunity to share
with first-time spectators about harness racing. Questions included the
start car and post positions, pacing vs. trotting, can Standardbreds
canter, and why do they tie the horses' tongues down.....

Happy to be there to share about the versatility of the breed and enjoyed
watching Two Cheeseburgers race!!!

This gloomy day finds me missing my mom - two pictures here were taken
five short years ago at her 80th birthday dinner. She looked so
beautiful!

Last, but not least......the kill lot horses are out of quarantine and
ready to be shipped. I don't have a quote on how much transport will
cost, but ASAP is unable to fund this currently. We do have a foster farm
willing to take two geldings, but that leaves one without a place to go.
If you are able to provide a home please let us know!

Until tomorrow,
Susan

See the full gallery on Posterous

Vernon County Fair

Hello friends!

Be sure to look for fliers advertising ASAP's services to the community
during the Vernon County Fair.

I'll be available to answer any questions relating to Standardbreds and
adoption during harness racing on both days. Just look for me in the ASAP
t shirt!
I'll either be by the track or in the horse barn and will have literature
with me.

Susan