Some things seem to happen as a result of human error or stupidity. The reality, though, may actually be deeper than that. I believe that this is what happened in the case of our family adopting this almost-five year old horse, Doc. I truly believe that God chose us to love this precious guy so that his suffering could end one way or the other.

In March 2003, an internet friend in Arizona, had a cowboy friend with horses for sale. We had already purchased two horses for the start of living my life-long dream of owning horses with the help of our Arizona friend. We hoped to own four so my husband, two kids and I could hit the trails.

Having purchased two horses that we thought would be for our kids, it was my turn to pick out a horse for me.

Our friend's friend, "Cowboy," had several horses to choose from. The grullo was described as people friendly and a relative youngster--almost 5 years old. He had worked cows. He seemed to be a horse I could grow old with, ride trails and play at team penning with! He was also big and I had hoped to have a big horse that could handle my bulky bod! LOL!

The big lesson for us is this...if you are considering buying a horse, get the horse checked by a vet. Even if it is your best friend's horse! DO IT! If you have any regrets at all, it might be the cost of the exam not turning up anything and you can rest in peace knowing you are making a wise purchase, but think of the regrets if you do NOT have a vet check! YIKES!)

Doc Tari Zebra, a registered breeding stock American Paint Horse, became ours in April. Our Arizona friend, agreed to board Doc with the other two horses he had for us. However, there were some questions about Doc's suitability, so we headed from California to Arizona, to meet Doc in person and to see if he would work out ok.

My first thoughts upon seeing Doc were mixed. His conformation was odd...but I didn't know much. His hindquarters were also very disproportionate to the rest of his muscular build--they were smaller and "pointy." I was encouraged that he would likely fill out as he got older. Because he had bucked off our friend in Arizona, I wondered if Doc could be in pain. I filed that question away or ignored it basically, as I figured I don't know much about horses…but I have since found that I know more in my gut than I realize.

Doc was extremely calm and friendly. It seemed almost impossible that such a youngster would be so calm! When he walked, I noticed a stiffness in his hindquarters that again made me wonder. Again, I ignored my gut, figuring I didn't have a clue.

Doc and his "Corral Mates," Breezy and Dodger, came to our town in California in April, 2003. Doc had lost weight since I had seen him a month earlier...and, well, questions began piling up. I was in pretty deep, but it was too late now...

At this site are the journal entries and communications with internet friends who care about Doc Tari Zebra and the horrific ordeal he has and we have had to endure since purchasing this sweet horse.

Within 3 weeks of his arrival in California I was told he was a candidate for euthanization. Ironically, it was the day of his scheduled euthanization and at that appointment that a slight glimmer of hope was offered.

Our goal has been to see Doc set free from the pain he has had to endure for most, if not all, of his short life…but I get ahead of myself. Please use the links on the index page to read our story.