-Sarah Andrew
No drive to Kentucky is complete without a visit to Zodiac, one of the gamest Thoroughbreds I've ever met.
You can read about Zodiac in my June 2011 post on the TDN blog (click here). The 8-year-old stakes-winning Thoroughbred gelding was placed in the care of
Days End Farm Horse Rescue in Woodbine, MD after he and over 50 other horses were seized as a result of a
West Virginia cruelty case.
For many months, Zodiac's condition was touch-and-go, from his severely emaciated condition, to the ulcers in his digestive system and eyes, to the fevers, to the lymphangitis. I followed the Days End
Notes from the Barn blog every day, smiling with every improvement and wincing with every setback. I visited the farm twice during his most critical times; despite his weakened condition, he always turned his head to greet visitors in his stall.
In November 2010, he took his first walk without the sling
(video).
In May 2011, he put on a show for me in his paddock, leaping and playing with wild abandon.
In December 2011, I planned a quick trip to Kentucky, and of course, stopped to visit my friend Zodiac on my way. Gone was the brittle coat and gaunt frame. Before me stood a handsome chestnut, full of life and basking in the attention of the volunteers at the rescue.
He no longer stood meekly for photos, but instead tossed his head impatiently if I took too long setting up my shots.
His coat glowed, eyes full of life, and he carried himself with pride. During our session, he posed this way and that; it is such a joy to photograph a horse like Zodiac.
I wasn't sure if "Zody" would appreciate wearing a wreath and Santa hat for his Christmas photo, but he handled his new attire with aplomb, carrying the pine wreath like a blanket of roses. I should have known that the "Miracle Horse" would not disappoint me.
Although his racing days are over, Zodiac continues to earn money and gain loyal fans.
A recent calendar contest raised over $15,000 for the rescue, and my photo of Zodiac was selected for the cover. You can learn more about the efforts of Days End Farm Horse Rescue
at this link or by
visiting their page on Facebook.
