Bright Futures Farm is a sanctuary for retired Thoroughbreds.  We find homes for many horses that have the potential for a new career as a trail horse or family pleasure mount.   Our focus is to save as many horses as we can before  they are faced with neglect or auction. 

We are always in need of foster homes.  When you foster a horse you help us save one more from harm.  Fostering expenses are tax-deductible.  If you have room, please ask us about our foster program.

FAST MARKET

(Secretariat - Tina's Ten)

Markie's donor told us that the Kentucky Horse Park had expressed interest in Markie, but he chose Bright Futures Farm as Markie's retirement home, and we are thrilled and honored to have him as one of our permanent residents.  Markie won the Puss N Boots Stakes (G1) Canada and a quarter of a million dollars during his career. 

Now, Markie hangs out with his buddy Arturo or entertains himself by pulling the tails of the other horses in the pasture.

 Below are photos from July 31, 2008

Markie had not been ridden for twelve years.  His only riding experience until now was at the track.  Stephanie P., age 13, asked Markie to work on the longe line for about fifteen minutes... then they went for a ride!  What a great horse!  He acted like the true professional he is.

# # #

10-28-08:  Markie has just been diagnosed with Thyroid cancer.  I caught this early, so it has not metasticized.  OSU can successfully remove the right half of his thyroid and rid him of the cancer (in almost every case, when caught early, the surgery is 100% successful).  We need to get this done before the cancer spreads. 

Cost for surgery:  $1200. 

Cost for transport to and from OSU: $400. 

Total money we need to raise: $1600

Many thanks to our friends, and supporters, many of them Fans of Barbaro, we were able to raise the money for Markie's surgery.

Thank you to...

Janet L.: $100, Leslie & Cute Show: $50, Michele B.: $25, Kristi S.: $200, JeAnna R.: $500, Jennifer M.: $20, Christine E.: $25, LeAnn B., Trixie & Tendress: $25, Jennifer S.:  25.00, Susan P.: $40, Debbie B.: $300, Fran F.: $50, Jane D.: $50, Flora J.: $20, Candace Serviss: $25, Judy G.:  $20, Linda: $125 after care

Markie had surgery at Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital on November 5, 2008.  Dr. Yvonne Elce successfully removed ALL of the tumor in Markie's thyroid!

On November 7, 2008, I brought Markie home.

Here are some photos from the last few days...

Markie's arrival at OSU. He's wearing his new presentation halter and blanket that Janet bought him.  Thank you, Janet!  He lookd quite handsome!

Markie at OSU on 1.07.08 just prior to leaving for home after a successful thyroid surgery.

Markie at home 11-08-08, three days after surgery.

Markie close up of surgery site.  He pulled three stitches out in the center of the opening at the hospital, and they decided to leave them out so that the area would have a place to drain if need be.  Stitches will be removed 11-14-08.