Charlie the horse, above, had become a symbol of hope for many across the state after suffering injuries in the Monument Fire. (Submitted photo)
Charlie Horse was laid to rest on Sunday, July 10, 2011, in the company of many dedicated volunteers from Horse'n Around Rescue who cared for him. Please read the passage below and forward it to your friends who may have been following Charlis's story and struggle to survive. He touched so many lives. We'd like to personally thank everyone who held a special place in their heart for Charlie.
FAREWELL FINE FRIEND….
Four weeks ago today, Sunday (June 12, 2011), a devastating fire bore down on 24 horses grazing peacefully on our mountain pasture on the side on the Huabhuca Mountains, then began its malevolent trek northward and eastward into the surrounding communities. Four neighbors, at great risk, led 23 horses to safety, but the 24th horse, Charlie, panicked and ran back into the flames. Somehow, that beautiful, gallant animal came back through the fire and found his way to his herd. He became a national hero, a survivor, and people here and from around the country opened their hearts to him.
Today, Sunday, this fourth week since the Monument Fire, we had to make a decision that you hope you never have to make for any animal under your protection, particularly at Horse'n Around Rescue -- we put Charlie down. While he appeared to be healing well from his burns and wounds, his liver and organs were giving out and couldn't sustain him. For the past couple of days he spent most of his time on the ground. It is with such a heavy heart that we tell you this.
We thank so many people for their kindness and generosity. Their patience is inexhaustible: Dr. Dusti Prentice of Southern Arizona Equine who provided loving care for Charlie; Bud and Joan Strom from the Single Star Ranch where Charlie stayed and who provided so much support throughout Charlie's ordeal. We thank our many volunteers who spent countless hours with Charlie: Ann Gallus, Vet Tech and compassionate neighbor who helped with Charlie's care; Peggy who stopped by morning and night with carrots; Nancy, Andrea, Allison, Beth, Ruben, Bruce, Buck, Greg and Cathy who stopped by regularly to visit Charlie; Kelly from Nelson Wholesale; Kerry from Durvet; Kirk from CarraVet; and all those who sent generous donations to help with the cost of Charlie's care and provide for his buddies whose pasture was lost in the fire. We thank the public who graciously inquired about Charlie, helped spread the word his needs and then came forward to fulfill these needs.
Many victims of this fire experienced great losses, losing homes, pets, and many irreplaceable items from their lives. Our hearts go out to them.
Today, Sunday, this fourth week since the Monument Fire, we had to make a decision that you hope you never have to make for any animal under your protection, particularly at Horse'n Around Rescue -- we put Charlie down. While he appeared to be healing well from his burns and wounds, his liver and organs were giving out and couldn't sustain him. For the past couple of days he spent most of his time on the ground. It is with such a heavy heart that we tell you this.
We thank so many people for their kindness and generosity. Their patience is inexhaustible: Dr. Dusti Prentice of Southern Arizona Equine who provided loving care for Charlie; Bud and Joan Strom from the Single Star Ranch where Charlie stayed and who provided so much support throughout Charlie's ordeal. We thank our many volunteers who spent countless hours with Charlie: Ann Gallus, Vet Tech and compassionate neighbor who helped with Charlie's care; Peggy who stopped by morning and night with carrots; Nancy, Andrea, Allison, Beth, Ruben, Bruce, Buck, Greg and Cathy who stopped by regularly to visit Charlie; Kelly from Nelson Wholesale; Kerry from Durvet; Kirk from CarraVet; and all those who sent generous donations to help with the cost of Charlie's care and provide for his buddies whose pasture was lost in the fire. We thank the public who graciously inquired about Charlie, helped spread the word his needs and then came forward to fulfill these needs.
Many victims of this fire experienced great losses, losing homes, pets, and many irreplaceable items from their lives. Our hearts go out to them.
Charlie left us knowing he was loved by all, near and far. He may never know how many lives he touched. Our Charlie is gone but not forgotten.
Thank you for loving Charlie! (Photo attached.)
Theresa and Steve
Theresa Warrell and Steve Boice
Horse'n Around Rescue Ranch and Foundation, Inc.
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