Horse sanctuary needs more help

Posted: Jun 12, 2011 6:29 PM by Kathy Kuretich
Updated: Jun 12, 2011 11:56 PM

A sanctuary in San Miguel known for helping abused or neglected horses is asking for a little help itself.
"Heaven Can Wait" pairs rescued horses with special needs children and cancer patients through its healing and learning programs.
One of their rescued horses is named Pairodocs. He's a sweet thoroughbred and grandson of racing legend, Secretariat. After falling 300 feet off a trail, his owner had no need for him anymore. That's when he was rescued and brought to the sanctuary.
"They're spoiled, and that's the way it should be," said volunteer coordinator Gail Temple.
Pairodocs and 27 other equines now live in peace. But they're all survivors having been neglected, abused, or abandoned.
"Some of them have starved to the point where they have sand colic, where they eat sand and rocks because they're hungry," said Temple.
"Where are these poor animals going to go? Old horses are don't necessarily need to be ignored and neglected. They can have a job here," said owner Susan Schwartz.
Once forgotten, the horses and donkeys have blossomed into therapists. Working with special needs children or cancer patients who gain confidence and pride.
"These kids come here and not only do they hold the animals, such as chickens, but they take them through obstacle courses, they groom them, and just have a wonderful time," said owner Mark Schwartz.
"It's been awesome to watch the changes in these kids," said Susan.
But running this ranch doesn't come cheap. Susan said they have a $120-thousand dollar yearly price tag.
"I am far, far, far from that," she said. "The economy is killing everybody, animals are being dropped by the roadside, horses are being starved, it's a very tragic situation."
Sunday, Mark and Susan Schwartz held an open house, inviting guests to see their work in action. They hope can continue to keep their place of healing going strong, but asking for more financial support.
You can donate on their website. http://www.heavencanwait.us/ or by eating at Chili's Restaurant in Paso Robles onJune 28th. You can get coupons at their website or at the Open House, the Sanctuary, Consignage (1041 Paso Robles Street, Paso), Pillow Talk (1210 Park Street, Paso) or by calling Susan 805/368-5702 or emailing Susan at susan@heavencanwait.us.