*WARNING! GRAPHIC IMAGES BELOW*

Most of you know I am a HUGE horse rescue advocate. Rescuing horses is one of the most rewarding things someone can do.

We all hear about the great, uplifting rescue stories. Unfortunately Hayley’s story doesn’t have the happiest ending.

Hayley was abandoned by her owner when she moved out of state, leaving poor Hayley in this awful condition. She was taken by Nicole Coleman and Leilani Mae Horse Rescue.

Hayley was only 8 years old and was thought to have a terrible eye injury. However, that injury was diagnosed to be an extremely aggressive eye cancer by Doctor Brian Garret of the Animal Hospital of Fayetteville. The cancer had metastasized to her bones and there was nothing that could be done to save her at the point of rescue.

However it could have easily been treated early on and Hayley could have lived a long and happy life had it been treated properly. The tough decision was made to humanely euthanize Hayley.

Until she was euthanized she was given heavy pain meds and antibiotics to fight the infection. Nicole provided such wonderful care and lots of love Hayley’s last days.  We gave her lots of treats.

Hayley was such a sweet mare. When I saw her I broke down into tears. You could smell the infection from 10 feet away. I couldn’t understand why any horse owner could abandon her and leave her cancer untreated for so long. It broke my heart.

Nicole started an animal advocate/rescue page in honor of Hayley called Hope for Hayley. Please go check it out and follow!

During times like this we all think, “What can I do to help?”. There are SO many things you can do!

First off, it all starts with responsible horse ownership. It sounds simple, but take care of your horse. Don’t dump him off after years of hard work. Be responsible. Don’t dump your horse off at auction. Just by doing that you are already greatly reducing the number of horses at risk for abuse, neglect, or slaughter.

Two, volunteer or donate to your local horse rescue. We have a great horse rescue in NC called Leilani Mae. Consider donating or sponsoring a horse.

Three, consider adopting or rescuing one yourself. Take it from me, it is highly rewarding and you never know the kind of amazing horse you may get!

Four, advocate for animals by joining local animal advocacy groups and petitioning for stricter animal cruelty laws. Several counties here in North Carolina have little to no consequences when prosecuted for animal cruelty.

Hayley touched so many hearts, and we are so glad she is no longer in pain. We will see you on the other side Hayley!