Hurricane Harvey is one of the worst natural disasters to ever hit our Country. And some are saying it is the worst flooding in the history of Texas. Homes, businesses, schools, crops and animals have been submerged in water for days and we’re hearing that it’s going to take a while for the water to recede. The damages are reaching the $10 billion dollar mark. It’s practically mind-blowing what has happened there over the last couple of weeks.
It’s like a friend was saying to me, “You can’t grasp it unless you’re in it. Unless you are actually there in it and can see for yourself do you believe that water is chest deep for a 6′ man.” It breaks my heart to hear the news and watch the endless cycle of devastating pictures on the news stations.
Heroes are often born from times of devastation–times when things are chaotic, when people and animals can’t help themselves–heroes emerge and help those who can’t do for themselves.
We get to see some of these heroes thrown into that cycle of images from the storm and flood devastation. But most heroes that emerge from these kinds of times are never seen or talked about. They go about doing what they have to do and seek no recognition or acknowledgement. I guess that is part of what makes them a hero, right? They just do it. Simply because someone else can’t do for themselves.
One such unsung hero is Amy Whitaker. Amy owns and operates New Caney Equine Rehabilitation Center and Transport (New Caney Equine Rehabilitation Center and Transport).
They specialize in rehabilitating horses with Body Condition Scores (BCS) of 2 and under. In other words, they work with very sick, emaciated horses and rehabilitate them. From the “about” section on their Facebook page (link above): “We save neglected and abused horses in need by rehabilitating, training, and placing them in a lifelong home. Every horse we rescue receives medical attention to address all immediate physical needs, and ongoing veterinary and farrier care thereafter. We create a tailored training program to help each horse realize their full potential and to address scars that cruelty or neglect has left on their lives. Our team rides each horse extensively in a variety of situations to help our horses become de-sensitized, confident and happy trail horses. Many of our horses are also started on obstacles and several have been competed on. The ultimate goal is to find a lifelong home that is a perfect fit for each horse and their adoptive family. To date we have had more than 80 horses grace our gates.”
You may be asking yourself, “Where do that many sick horses come from?” I had that question too. She works closely with Law Enforcement who will call Amy when they go to rescue a neglected/abused horse. She also picks them up at auction barns and she receives some through owner surrenders. If that were all Amy did, it would be enough to make her a hero. But that’s not all she does. She does much more.
Amy Whitaker is an unsung horse hero of Hurricane Harvey.
On the Wednesday before Hurricane Harvey rains, Amy had 18 horses at the Center. By the following Monday, she had over 40. She started getting more on Thursday and she has continued to get them over the last few days. Horses that couldn’t stay where they were due to flooding, horses that needed rescuing from flooded areas, horses that needed somebody to come through for them were picked up by Amy or delivered to Amy for care during this terrible, terrible time in Texas.
You may not see Amy Whitaker’s efforts on the news. You may not hear her talked about in the horse world. But, you better believe those horses know. They know who she is and they what she has done.
And God knows too.
And I truly believe that God will bless Amy for the love she shows His creatures.
Blessings!
Charity
This brought tears to my eyes, very heartwarming. God Bless you Amy!
God will Bless you….prayers and love your way
Bless you Amy. You are a hero to so many horses in need! Thank you for your efforts.
It’s always nice that someone like Amy cares enough to do such a good deed for the Horses. God bless Amy!
God Bless you Amy. You are doing awesome work.These beautiful animals can’t help themselves. Thank God you are there for them.
God bless you.. we had to rescue donkey and mare 2 days ago from high rushing water
God bless you and your big loving caring heart. I know those precious animals are grateful. The next time one nuzzles you, you will feel their gratitude. I pray that all the horses will find their forever loving homes and someone will love and take care of them as you are. Always wishing you prayers. Stay safe.
I have adopted a great horse from this rescue! So proud to read this and know what a difference she is making!
Bless you Amy for all your efforts in helping these beautiful horses the good Lord will always look out for you thank you so much for your efforts you are a true steward to these animals 🐴🐴❤️❤️
God bless you Amy
Prayers to all of you and the animals in Texas, hope all of this go away, I will be thinking if all of you from now on please
Please write your address so readers can make a donation directly to your organization. Thank you for all that you are doing.
Thank your for unselfishly helping these animals.Bless and Keep you!I pray that someone near you,will see this post,and come to your aide! If I were physically able,I would drive right there.Instead,I will pray for you,and anyone that is helping you.I pray for these animals.Please Lord help this angel of mercy;Send help to them.Give them the strength needed,to continue in the endevers,that has put them on this path.Please Lord;it is Your will,to make any decision,to this disaster.Help all of us to not queston Your will,or decisions.Let us be strong;and help us to understand,the lesson,that You are teaching us.We are to obey,and help our fellow man.Please help all of us to remember this;give us the answer,to know what to do.Help us,I pray.Blessed are the meek.(I feel that these animals are the meek here,please help them).Help the humans,to do everything possible.Keep them safe.In Your name I pray.Amen.
Thank you Amy.
The deed that you are doing is immeasurable. I confess the tears that well up in my eyes as I read and the photos telling and showing the selfless deed which you are doing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I am so sorry to be unable to help,physically.I do feel the need to do something.These people are true hero’s in everyday life.If $ donations are needed,I do not have much;am willing to pledge $25.00 check.Please send,address.I will mail it tomorrow a.m.Thanks,Bev.Simmons-Toburen
Amy’s address is:
New Caney Equine Rehabilitation Center
27810 Casey Lane
New Caney, TX 77357
Truly honored to call Amy a great friend! Thanks for always doing what you do, unconditionally!
God bless you for your efforts to save the horses in need durning the floods and under normal conditions. ..I know it is just a movie but I just finished watching HEARHEART and your place popped up on my FB page. Check out the movie when you have a chance on Netflix… Prayers to you and your work
I looked up the address for anyone wanting it since I figured she’s not going to have time for reading anything any time soon. New Caney Equine Rehabilitation Center and Transport, 27810 Casey Lane, New Caney, TX 77357
Thank you Amy. God bless you.
You never cease to amaze me! I’ve enjoyed working by your side and seeing what you do with these horses and horses in the past couple of years! I am truly blessed to know you and call you a friend! You never hesitate to help those in need! You are a hero and so much more! Love ya girl!
Wow!! What an amazing woman. I have utmost respect for animal rescuers. They often work while pitted against lots of difficulties.
Sweet Amy, God Bless you and the heart you have for animals! I also have that heart but could not do what you did! When I saw the horses and donkeys with water up to their necks my heart sank. Of course I have been praying for the families that have lost so much and for their protection. And also praying for the terrified animals who could only depend on human help.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!
I have no idea if you will read this or not, and it’s ok if you don’t, I’m only expressing what everyone else has already said. You are a hero!
There are angels among us, and Amy is one of them.
Thank you Amy for making a difference!