Thoughts on an Idea

As I type this post, we are currently at 99 degrees with a heat index of 104. It's simply too hot. With the heat and no rain comes the topic on everyone's mind...hay and hay prices.

It's about a month ahead of schedule but people are starting to post free horses. I realize it's better to find them homes now rather than wait until this fall or winter but it's still a little scary. All the discussion boards I follow are currently talking about hay prices and the lack of available hay.

The hay discussions are starting to really ramp up on these discussion boards and it leaves me worried. I am unfortunately not able to take on any more at this time due to my health and finances. If we could get sponsors for some of the horses, maybe we could look at bringing one or two horses in to retire for what little time they have left on this earth. I know some will look at culling their "useless" horses and I'm expecting that many of the old will be tossed aside.

I know the different discussions about slaughter. But there are other options. I've been mulling it around in my head for a long time. Would there be interest or a need in a low cost euthanasia clinic? I haven't figured out many of the details or the costs involved but I am curious to know if people would be willing to spend a few bucks on their beloved old horses to ensure a kind end rather than earn a couple bucks and dump them at an auction (even then they may not make any money, they may break even or have to pay in). Again, I don't have any details but I want to know what people think about the idea of having such a clinic. Let me know what you think on our facebook page. If there seems to be a need, I'll see what I can do. We already have two that have to be put down this fall. It would be too cruel to make them endure another winter knowing full well that they won't make it even if we have another open winter. I'd like to know your thoughts.