Hidden Rescue

When it comes to the Humane Society, most people automatically think of cats and dogs. Cats and dogs are easily left behind or abused. Not very many people think about farm animals needing to be rescued.

It wasn't until this passed summer that I learned about Longmeadow Rescue Ranch. They are a division of Humane Society of Missouri, but hidden away in the back roads of Union, MO. Growing up taking care of farms and riding horses, I was immediately motivated to see how I could get involved and started volunteering.

The 165-acres of woodland is haven for hundreds of abused and neglected horses, goats, ducks, and many others. The ranch is made up of staff and volunteers who train, care for, and rehabilitate these animals every single day , no matter the weather.

Twister

The ranch "mascot" is a big beautiful boy named "Twister". Twister (Twist of Fate) came to the ranch after a semi-truck carrying 41 horses to slaughter into Illinois had wrecked in September 2006. Twenty-five horses were saved. Mama, Twister's mother, was in one of the top compartments of the trailer, which was found laying on it's side, standing over several dead horses. When she was rescued, it was obvious that Mama was pregnant. Through some miracle, she continued her pregnancy and a healthy Twister was born on April 18, 2007.

He was a bit of a brat when he was with his mom and can still be a troublemaker. He seems to know his role as mascot. He is very curious and loves attention.

We even have to keep his and the next door's stalls double locked. He has figured out how to unlock the stall doors and let everyone out for overnight parties. You can learn more about Twister at the Longmeadow Gift Shop where they have a children's book dedicated to his story.

Lone Jack

Lone Jack is an old boy that has to be the cuddliest horse I have ever seen. He always seems to be up for an ear scratching and in-depth conversation. He was rescued with numerous other horses from a neglectful situation. He was suffering from parasites, dental issues, and was underweight from lack of food. Although he now has no teeth for careless grazing, he has come a really long way. He listens well and loves bananas.

Clive

Longmeadow isn't home to only horses. Clive is a Pot Bellied pig that came to the ranch with his mom and 5 siblings. He is friendly and could easily be house trained, just needs to keep his treats in check (but he'll tell you otherwise).

Bowser

Then you have little guys like Bowser. He is so polite to other animals and people, and how cute is he!? Bowser was surrendered by a family that had to move and couldn't take their farm animals with them. He may not have his horns, but he is still mighty. He's been known to jump 4ft high fences just to visit his human and horse friends

Kirby

Kirby is a little guy that was rescued with other animals. He has a torn muscle in his hind end that prevents him from being ridden, but he is perfectly happy being a companion horse. They have to watch his diet closely since he is so short and stubby, but his energy and love make it all worth it.

Professor

Professor is a mini pig that was purchased very young. His owner decided he was too much work and diffictul to own in an apartment. When he came to the ranch, he was only a few months old. He is super friendly and loves meeting new people. It is adorable to see him roll over for belly rubs and is really smart, so it should be easy to teach him new tricks.

Kyle

Kyle is a small pony cross that was rescued with another horse where they were not being properly cared for. After a year of rehabilitation and handling, he is now ready to find a home. He is young with lots of potential and is currently in the ranch's training program where he is learning how to be polite and is beginning to understand the saddle.

Twilight

Twilight is a gorgeous Appaloosa and she knows it. She catches the eye of everyone that comes to visit and has a great personality. She is young and doesn't appear to have any training for riding but is very willing to learn.

The ranch has MANY more adoptable animals from llamas to ducks that you can visit during their open house days (every Friday from 12 p.m. -3 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m).

Longmeadow has become one of my favorite places to be, even if I am just shoveling poop and talking to critters that can't talk back.

http://longmeadowrescueranch.org/

https://www.facebook.com/LongmeadowRescueRanch/

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