Web posted
Monday, July 7, 2008
Pony rehab becomes Cowley business
By CHRIS ROBINETTE
Traveler Correspondent
Karen Everhart and her husband, David, have been involved with horses for over 30 years.
Karen's interest in horses sparked from her grandfather, she said.
Karen and her husband are from the Wichita area. They found their inspiration to take care of horses when they were looking for land around Sedan. On one of the properties, they found an abandoned Shetland pony, who had been allowed to overgraze.
The Everharts rehabilitated the pony, and according to Karen, he still resides in Concordia, Kan., and gives pony rides to the grandchildren.
Now the Everharts run a fulltime ranch, Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement. The ranch, which was started in 2005, serves as a "safe haven for abused, neglected and abandoned horses," said a press release from the Everharts.
Often the work is challenging, depending on why the horse has come to the ranch. Sometimes, however, the horses are completely fine, they just need a place to go.
"We get people contacting us three to five timers per week asking us if we could take their animals," said Karen.
The work is often challenging, and a full day's work.
"From the first thing in the morning, to the last thing we night we spend our entire day," said Karen.
The 240-acre ranch is run entirely on volunteers and donations, which Karen said that the ranch is in need of.
"Any donation, no matter how much, is greatly appreciated," said the press release.
The ranch will be opened to the public from 1-5 p.m. July 20 for an open house and adoption day.
Those interested in donating, or would like more information on the open house may contact the ranch at (620) 725-3402 or visit the Web site at: www.rainbowmeadowsranch.com.
|
