News from The Farm - September Newsletter

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Newsletter September 2023

Cushing’s Disease and the “Barbie Pink” Pill

At MMFS we have six horses (about one-third of our herd) who have Cushing’s disease - Ally, Molly, Pluto, Rabin, Rosie, Honey. And, possibly, one more with our new Icelandic rescue who needs to be tested. Cushing’s (also called PPID) is an endocrine disorder involving the pituitary gland. This disease is very common in older horses and there is no cure. Since the sanctuary’s purpose is to provide a permanent home for animals, often for their retirement years, this means that many of our animal residents have complicated medical conditions.

Prascend - the “Barbie pink” pill - is required for our horses daily to manage their disease (Pluto, our big PMU paint gelding, actually takes two Prascend pills a day). In addition to medication, we also provide special feed, pastures with limited grass, and slow feed hay nets. Prascend is a costly medication. Prascend costs $170 per box of 60 pills, and we give 8 pills per day. That is $8273 annually! The cost associated with Cushing’s, as well as the time it takes to care for a horse with Cushing’s, can be a reason that horses end up homeless and in need of a sanctuary.

Our “barbies” and “kens” really need help. We are raising $2500 to help cover the next several months of Prascend costs. Can you help?

BARBIE “PRASCEND” FUNDRAISER

Volunteers of the Month: Derek and Robin

Derek and Robin have been volunteering for MMFS since April. They are an amazing couple. Robin has seen many of our current residents on their first days at the farm. She has snuggled baby lambs Kermit and Luca, helped little Piglet get comfy, and lovingly cared for chicks and ducklings. She was such an amazing volunteer, that she helped on staff this summer!

Derek has been incredibly helpful and handy. His construction skills have helped us make a safe place for our turkeys, build a quick pig stall, among many other impromptu assignments.

Their love for animals shine through their work at the sanctuary. Thank you so much, Robin and Derek!

Animal Spotlight

Large Animal of the Month: Ally

Ally is a very special miniature horse. Although she is small, she is mighty in her medical needs. She has severe allergies, laminitis, and Cushing’s disease. Even through her struggles, she is the sweetest little girl you may ever meet. She came to MMFS because her caregiver could no longer take care of her. She is cute as a button in every way - her whinny, her sweet face looking up at you, her adorable tiny halter, and how she is so friendly. We adore her.

SPONSOR ALLY

Small Animal of the Month: Tom

Tom came to us, along with his brother Jerry, from Kinder Way Sanctuary where they were finding ways to wander into their neighbors' yards a little too often. They settled in at MMFS quickly and Tom assumed his role as Chief Barnyard Supervisor almost immediately. He always makes sure he's part of what's going on and that everyone knows he's the best looking turkey there. The deep colors he displays in his waddles are second to none! Tom is also slowly becoming more social with staff and visitors. We love you Tom!

SPONSOR TOM

What is donorbox.org?

You may have bought tickets to one of our events, or seen us use links in our social posts that direct you to a site called donorbox.org. We wanted to make sure that our followers know what it is, and why we use it. Donorbox is a non-profit organization that creates tools enabling us to manage our donation process and related activities. It helps us accept and keep track of donations, as well as do things like create events and sell tickets to them. The best part is that the only costs to MMFS are small percentage fees from donations or tickets, so it's essentially free to us. It certainly has helped MMFS navigate the complexities of accepting the support, from folks like you, that sustains our operations!

Events at the Sanctuary

Volunteer Orientation: Searching for enthusiastic volunteers to help with animal care. Age 15 or older

Toddler Storytime at the Farm: Bring your toddler to read a story and meet the animals.

Open Barn Day: Bring your family to visit the farm and our sanctuary animals. Kids are welcome!

Introducing New MMFS Staff: Mari, Assistant Director

You will see Mari at MMFS Monday thru Friday helping with animal care, volunteers, events, and anything the sanctuary needs. She is a newcomer to Vermont. She moved from Salt Lake City to Shelburne in May of this year. She has worked as a Director in HR for the last 15 years, but has absolutely loved this change to working for the sanctuary. She is new to farm animal care and management, but learning fast with Era's mentorship. When she is not at the barn, she loves to craft, garden, travel, and spend time with her husband and two rescue dogs.

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