09/04/2026
What’s next for Jess’s Haven?
It was just over 5 years ago that I saw a need for horses and donkeys to be rescued from a cruel fate, and stepped out in faith to help the ones I could. At one time, there were 20 horses and donkeys here on the farm. Some have been adopted, I’ve lost 5 over the last 4 years, and some remain. It’s been one of the most challenging and rewarding things I’ve ever done in my life. The challenge was starting out, I had no idea what I was doing, and not that I’m by any means an expert now, just have learned some through experience. Also, a challenge is saying goodbye. My friends and sweet vet always remind me when that time comes, that they in the end had a good life, they were loved and cared for, and they didn’t cross over that bridge without me being there by their side as they slipped away.
I work a job and take on every side job I can to keep the animals fed and cared for. It takes about $800 per month just in feed, doesn’t include any farrier visits, hay or vet care. I’m just not good at asking for help or fundraising.
Caring for the animals on a daily basis is not only easy, but enjoyable. They have become one big family and it warms my heart everyday to see them all live happily together.
I’m asked often to take animals that need a home. I have not been able to take anymore animals in, not because I don’t want to help, it’s keeping everyone fed and cared for that has become a fear.
There a really good rescues/sanctuaries that are more advanced than I in many areas, especially fundraising and social media. My gift is just loving animals and caring for them, which is what I started out doing. I will continue to love and care for the animals here on the farm.
This is not a poor me post, it’s just a real post from me to you. The sun seems to be setting on Jess’s Haven. I feel the need to channel my efforts to work, keeping everyone fed and cared for, and the time that I’m caring for them and enjoying their company, to be just that.
I love caring for the animals, and always will. I’ve learned so many life lessons from the animals, I’m not sure I could have learned any other way. I’m so grateful to Kim, Julie and Greg who have supported JH over and beyond my imagination, they truly have been a giant encouragement and help! Thank you to all of you who have given, watched our page and shared it.
The Lord has been good in always providing for the animals needs and He will continue to provide for their needs.
This farm will always be Jess’s haven, as it has been and is to:
Ella
Joe
Eliza
Lucy
Jethro
Buddy
Prancer
Dance
Maggie
Journey
Charlie
Emma
Belle
Betty Lou
Reagan
Sunny
Sassy
Indiana
Cookie
Cole
Benny
Rita
Rayne
Fletcher
Mallory
Max
Calli
George
Oliver
