Dove and Sparrow Update 8/7/2025

It's hard to believe it's been exactly one month since Dove and Sparrow came to Freedom Reigns Ranch. Both were in critical condition and we were unsure of their survival. I'll never forget walking into the shed they were in and trying to catch my breath and hide my expression at the reality of their desperate state. The photos that were sent prior to our arrival didn't do justice to their skeletal frames. The obvious pain Dove was in because of her feet caused my heart to drop. I honestly wasn't sure she would have a chance at recovery.

The plan to simply take them to the Ranch to begin rehabilitation was abruptly rerouted to our vet, who had a rare unexpected opening in his schedule.

When we arrived, the entire vet staff halted activity to attend to them. Their official weigh-ins enough to evoke an audible sigh from every person present as we all took in the gravity of their emaciation. Dr. Mark tenderly, and with great intention examined each. He relieved fears of a broken bone in Dove's leg, commented on the obscene amount of rainrot covering each of their backs, mentioned a plan for surgical removal of Sparrow's tumor once he was healthy, and noted Dove's ulcerated eye for the same. It was going to be a long haul recovery as each had numerous challenges to overcome. Thankfully (and unfortionately), these desperately critical rescues are not something we're strangers to. In fact, rehabilitating the worst of the worst is something we're really good at. And we knew that we could count on you, the kind and generous people who believe that God's "least of these" refers to His precious, abandoned and neglected horses to help provide the financial need while we care for every physical and emotional need each horse has. Please consider continuing to support Dove and Sparrow. As you'll see in their individual updates below, they both have a long way to go but have already made great strides in recovery!

Sparrow:

Sparrow is doing FANTASTIC. His personality is starting to show up even more and his intelligent nature is particularly endearing. He seems to know he has made it to a great place. He now stands willingly for his daily eye tumor cleaning, loves being brushed, and loves his food even more. As a senior guy in his early 20's, his topline will take a bit longer to fill out since his body was breaking down muscle to survive and just like humans, when you're older it's harder to build muscle and distribute fat in the right places. Old horses are never supposed to be emaciated. They just require special feed and care to maintain condition and it's possible for them to look and feel great!

Dove

Dove's weight gain is going so well that we had to intentionally slow her down and keep her on the thinner side while she is rehabilitating her feet. She is still at The Jaeckle Centre where the staff is so generously continuing to care for her like a top-level show horse (don't tell her she isn't!). She absolutely loves scratches and snuggle time (see photo below with our Founder and Director, Carissa).

Her feet are a very long haul process, but she is getting the best care to set her up for long term comfort. The special shoes she has on are designed to help correct the mechanics of her feet so she can grow healthy hoof that will stop the coffin bone from continuing to sink and rotate. Her body has the support, and now it needs to heal.

In addition to her shoes, she continues to receive daily therapy to support her immune system, reduce inflammation and discomfort, and promote good bloodflow to her feet so they can grow and heal.

Our gratitude to The Jaeckle Centre, Teresa, Dr. Mark, Naomi and everyone taking such great care of this precious little mare cannot be overstated. They are absolutley to be credited with saving her life!

Donate directly to Dove and Sparrow's care by clicking here.