Meet Flecken
Flecken is a 28 year-old blind horse with a story of resilience and inspiration. Born with a rare medical condition, within his first year of life he was blind in one eye. There was no doubt that blindness in his other eye would soon follow. His original owner, who was scared by his medical condition, sold him at an auction. He was purchased by a broker for slaughtered horses, and his fate became tragically clear. Flecken was placed in a packed, dirty corral with a hundred other horses, and was awaiting export to Texas to be slaughtered. Fortunately, Elizabeth Jay, who was interested in buying a horse, met Flecken in that corral. He was the first horse to walk up to her, and he gave her a gentle push on the back, making her decision easy. She examined Flecken and realized that the affectionate horse was challenged by a disability. As she brushed him for the first time, she noticed appalling evidence of abuse. Tears filled Elizabeth’s eyes, and she knew immediately what she had to do. Her decision to buy Flecken would forever change both of their lives. As customary for horses who are about to be slaughtered, she paid for him by the pound. Her compassionate purchase gave Flecken his second chance!
It was sadly no surprise when Flecken’s sight continued to deteriorate. However, with Elizabeth’s love and attention, he was able to see in his second eye until the age of six, way longer than any veterinarians had expected. In these six years, Elizabeth and Flecken formed an unbreakable bond. By the time Flecken completely lost his sight, it did not matter. Although he could not see, he trusted Elizabeth to keep him on his feet, and the two continued to enjoy trails and turnouts. Instead of allowing his blindness to negatively affect him, Flecken became even stronger. His other senses strengthened, which allowed Elizabeth to communicate with him in new ways. Now, at the incredible age of 28, Flecken has a far more modified routine that includes medication and a slower pace. Elizabeth decided to place Flecken in a more peaceful environment where his slow pace would be better satisfied. She knew it was right for him to enjoy the rest of his days surrounded by peace and constant care.
Flecken now calls the Portuguese Bend Riding Club in Rancho Palos Verdes his home! Elizabeth still loves to visit Flecken and hear the rhythmic footsteps of her familiar soulmate as they walk down Narcissa Drive together. Despite Flecken’s lifelong challenges, Elizabeth’s love has given him the strength and resilience to live a long and fulfilled life.
