Justin was euthanized yesterday due to colic. He had spent the day as usual with his buddy, Linus. Kim shared that when her husband, Kerry, went out to bring the boys in for the night, they were playful and full of life. Once Justin was back in his stall, however, he began pawing, and things escalated quickly. Dr. Viv from Mt. Vernon Veterinary Hospital arrived within the hour. The likely cause was a strangulating lipoma, a type of colic known for its sudden onset and severe pain. Given the circumstances, euthanasia was both timely and the kindest decision.
Kim and her family brought Justin home in May of 2019 after he had spent just over a year with SAFE. For nearly eight years, Justin knew nothing but love, care, and respect. This was a stark contrast to his earlier life, which had been marked by neglect and instability. He came from a deeply unhealthy situation involving a meth house, where the horses endured frightening and harmful interactions with humans.
Animal Control ultimately seized the horses in three separate actions. Justin was part of the second group. When he arrived at SAFE, Teddi and Roscoe immediately called out to their friend. Seeing them reunited—and hearing Teddi’s soft nickers—was a moment none of us will forget.
Despite his past, Justin had an incredible amount of try. Even after being mistreated, he was willing to trust and connect with people again. We were told concerning stories about his past handling, so we moved forward cautiously. In time, Justin showed us his true nature: a sensitive, kind-hearted gelding. We were grateful to be able to ride him and work with him, and even more grateful for the trust he placed in us.
Kim loves her horses fiercely, and Justin was no exception. She was deeply committed to giving him the very best life possible. One of their ongoing challenges was fecal water syndrome—an issue that even veterinarians struggle to fully resolve. Kim explored every option and, while flare-ups still occurred, she worked tirelessly to manage his comfort and prevent painful scalding. Anyone familiar with this condition knows the dedication it takes. That level of care is love, plain and simple.
SAFE could not have found a better home for Justin than with Kim and Kerry. They gave him a wonderful brother in Linus, a safe place to roam, and a life free from fear. These are the kinds of families we wish every horse could have. To the very end, Justin was treated with dignity, compassion, and respect, and the hardest decision was made to spare him further pain.
He will be deeply missed and always remembered. Rest easy, sweet Justin. Until we meet again. 💙
