The presence of equines, supplied with out monetary price to the recipient, inside the geographical boundaries of the state identified for its peninsula, subtropical local weather, and numerous ecosystem, constitutes the central theme. Such animals could change into obtainable attributable to numerous circumstances, together with however not restricted to house owners dealing with monetary hardship, rescue operations necessitated by neglect or abandonment, or the lack of people to adequately care for his or her livestock. A pertinent instance includes a scenario the place an proprietor, dealing with mounting veterinary payments, relinquishes possession of a beforehand well-cared-for animal to a sanctuary slightly than danger its continued struggling.
The importance of understanding the dynamics surrounding these conditions lies within the moral obligations related to animal welfare. Offering a protected and appropriate setting for these equines, no matter their origin, requires important dedication. Traditionally, the open areas and equestrian tradition of the area have fostered a connection between individuals and horses. Nevertheless, financial downturns and altering demographics can result in a rise in conditions the place house owners are unable to keep up these animals, necessitating intervention and potential relocation of the livestock in query.
The following sections will delve into the multifaceted facets of equine rescue and adoption inside the state, analyzing the roles of assorted organizations, the potential challenges confronted by people searching for to offer houses for these animals, and the long-term issues concerned in accountable horse possession. Moreover, exploration of the authorized and moral frameworks that govern such transfers of possession can even be mentioned.
1. Rescue organizations’ involvement
The narrative of equines supplied with out price inside Florida ceaselessly converges with the indispensable work of rescue organizations. These teams stand as very important intermediaries, bridging the hole between animals in want and potential caretakers. Their involvement is way over a easy transaction; it’s a fastidiously orchestrated course of designed to safeguard the well-being of susceptible creatures.
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Evaluation and Rehabilitation
Organizations embark on the essential preliminary step of evaluating the bodily and psychological situation of those equines. Many arrive bearing the marks of neglect or abuse, requiring intensive veterinary intervention, specialised diet, and affected person re-socialization. An intensive evaluation dictates the rehabilitation pathway, making certain the animal receives the tailor-made care it requires earlier than being thought of for placement.
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Stringent Adoption Screening
The dedication of rescue organizations extends to a rigorous adoption course of. Potential house owners endure scrutiny, encompassing background checks, property inspections, and interviews designed to evaluate their suitability. Monetary stability, expertise with horses, and the provision of ample shelter and pastureland are meticulously evaluated. This painstaking strategy goals to attenuate the danger of repeat abandonment or neglect.
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Contractual Obligations and Comply with-Up
Adoption just isn’t merely a switch of possession; it is the graduation of a legally binding settlement. Contracts sometimes stipulate necessities for ongoing veterinary care, correct feeding, and humane therapy. Rescue organizations typically conduct follow-up visits to make sure compliance with the phrases of the settlement and to offer ongoing help to the adopter.
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Schooling and Advocacy
Past direct rescue and placement, organizations play a pivotal position in educating the general public about accountable equine possession. They advocate for stronger animal welfare legal guidelines, increase consciousness in regards to the plight of uncared for and deserted animals, and provide steerage to potential house owners on the long-term dedication concerned in caring for an equine companion. Their work contributes to a extra compassionate and knowledgeable neighborhood.
The dedication of rescue organizations transforms the panorama of equine welfare. By offering complete care, conducting thorough screening, and providing ongoing help, they be certain that animals supplied with out price discover protected and loving houses, escaping the cycle of neglect and abandonment. These entities function cornerstones in a system that calls for accountability, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of each equine of their care.
2. Adoption necessities detailed
The promise of buying an equine with out upfront price in Florida typically results in a sobering encounter with the intricate internet of adoption necessities. This isn’t an informal transaction, however a deliberate course of, designed to guard susceptible animals from additional hardship. The attract of “free” rapidly fades as potential house owners navigate the mandatory steps to show their suitability. These necessities, typically intensive and demanding, function a vital filter, separating these with real dedication from these drawn solely by the perceived absence of economic burden. Tales abound of well-intentioned people, initially attracted by the concept of a no-cost equine companion, who rapidly uncover that the obligations and conditions far exceed their preliminary expectations. The element embedded inside these necessities types a significant safeguard, mitigating the danger of animals returning to conditions of neglect or abuse.
Think about the case of a retired couple, drawn to the prospect of offering a tranquil pasture for a rescued mare. They envisioned mild rides and companionship. Nevertheless, the adoption software required documented proof of ample fencing, an appropriate shelter, and a demonstrated historical past of accountable animal care. Moreover, an in depth monetary assertion was required to make sure the couple may cowl the numerous ongoing bills related to equine possession, together with veterinary care, farrier providers, and specialised feed. Whereas initially stunned by the breadth of the necessities, they in the end acknowledged the need of such measures. The thoroughness of the adoption course of pressured them to confront the realities of accountable possession, resulting in a extra knowledgeable and in the end profitable adoption.
In abstract, the seemingly easy idea of “free horses in Florida” is inextricably linked to the stringent particulars of adoption necessities. These necessities aren’t mere bureaucratic hurdles, however important safeguards that shield susceptible animals and guarantee accountable placement. They function a robust reminder that equine possession, whatever the preliminary acquisition price, calls for a profound dedication of assets, time, and experience. The problem lies in balancing the will to offer houses for animals in want with the crucial of stopping additional struggling, a steadiness that’s meticulously maintained by means of rigorous and detailed adoption protocols.
3. Rehabilitation prices substantial
The attract of acquiring an equine at no preliminary price can rapidly dissipate upon encountering the fact of rehabilitation bills. The time period “free horses in florida,” whereas seemingly easy, typically masks a historical past of neglect, damage, or sickness. The animals supplied below such circumstances ceaselessly require intensive medical intervention, specialised diet, and extended therapeutic care. These prices, typically unexpected and substantial, change into the burden of the adopter, reworking a seemingly cost-free acquisition into a big monetary dedication. A mare, for example, could be marketed as “free to a great residence” however arrives bearing the scars of malnutrition and a persistent respiratory an infection. The brand new proprietor, initially envisioning leisurely rides, quickly faces mounting veterinary payments and the daunting job of restoring the animal to well being. The preliminary absence of a purchase order worth turns into a distant reminiscence as rehabilitation prices climb, underscoring the intricate connection between the obvious alternative and the sensible realities of equine care.
The hyperlink between acquisition with out expense and the potential for important rehabilitation prices just isn’t coincidental. Usually, the very cause an equine is obtainable with out cost stems from the proprietor’s incapacity or unwillingness to handle its medical wants. Abandonment, neglect, and monetary hardship ceaselessly contribute to this cycle, leaving rescue organizations and subsequent adopters to bear the monetary burden of rectifying previous mistreatment. Think about the case of a gelding discovered wandering alongside a rural highway, emaciated and riddled with parasites. He was certainly “free” to whoever would take him, however his restoration required months of intensive care, together with deworming, dietary help, and therapy for a extreme pores and skin situation. The rehabilitation course of prolonged past bodily therapeutic, requiring behavioral remedy to handle the anxiousness and concern stemming from his previous experiences. This holistic strategy, whereas important for the animal’s well-being, exponentially elevated the general expense, turning the preliminary no-cost acquisition into a substantial funding.
Understanding the potential for substantial rehabilitation bills is paramount for anybody contemplating buying an equine supplied with out price. It requires a sensible evaluation of private monetary capability and a willingness to decide to the animal’s long-term well-being. Whereas the prospect of offering a loving residence for a uncared for or deserted equine is undeniably interesting, it’s important to acknowledge the potential monetary challenges concerned. An intensive veterinary examination previous to acquisition is essential, offering a transparent understanding of the animal’s present well being standing and potential future wants. The true price of equine possession extends far past the preliminary buy worth, and rehabilitation bills signify a big and sometimes missed element of that equation. The narrative surrounding “free horses in florida” calls for cautious scrutiny, making certain that compassion is tempered with knowledgeable decision-making and a sensible understanding of the monetary obligations concerned.
4. Accountable possession essential
The provision of equines with out preliminary monetary outlay in Florida underscores, slightly than diminishes, absolutely the necessity of accountable possession. The absence of a purchase order worth can lull potential house owners right into a false sense of ease, obscuring the substantial dedication that equine possession entails. The historical past of those “free horses,” typically marked by neglect or abandonment, calls for a heightened stage of accountability, a dedication that extends far past mere good intentions.
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Monetary Preparedness
The saga of the rescued palomino mare serves as a potent reminder. Acquired with out cost, she initially appeared a stroke of excellent fortune. Nevertheless, her historical past of poor diet resulted in recurring colic episodes, every requiring expensive veterinary intervention. The proprietor, unprepared for such bills, confronted a troublesome alternative: present the mandatory care or danger the animal’s struggling. This stark actuality highlights the vital significance of economic preparedness. Accountable possession necessitates a complete understanding of the continued prices of equine care veterinary payments, farrier providers, feed, and shelter and the flexibility to satisfy these bills with out hesitation. The preliminary lack of buy worth is a fleeting profit in comparison with the enduring monetary obligations that lie forward.
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Information and Experience
The story of the previous racehorse vividly illustrates the need of data and experience. Rehomed after a profession on the monitor, he possessed a singular set of wants and behavioral quirks. His new proprietor, missing expertise with thoroughbreds, struggled to grasp his coaching necessities and dietary wants. The horse grew to become more and more anxious and troublesome to handle, jeopardizing each his well-being and the security of his handler. This narrative underscores the significance of buying the requisite data and abilities earlier than assuming possession. Accountable stewardship calls for an understanding of equine habits, diet, and well being, and the willingness to hunt knowledgeable steerage when wanted. Equine possession just isn’t an innate ability; it requires dedication to studying and a dedication to steady enchancment.
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Moral Concerns
The plight of a uncared for herd, found on a foreclosed property, embodies the elemental moral issues inherent in equine possession. Left with out ample meals, water, or veterinary care, these animals suffered needlessly attributable to their proprietor’s monetary mismanagement and subsequent abandonment. Their struggling serves as a stark reminder that equines are sentient beings, deserving of respect and humane therapy. Accountable possession dictates an ethical obligation to offer for an animal’s fundamental wants and to make sure its well-being. It requires a dedication to moral decision-making, even when confronted with monetary hardship or private inconvenience. Equine possession just isn’t a proper; it’s a privilege that carries with it a profound moral accountability.
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Lengthy-Time period Dedication
The story of the ageing draft horse, reluctantly relinquished after a long time of devoted service, highlights the significance of long-term dedication. His proprietor, dealing with declining well being and monetary constraints, made the troublesome resolution to give up him to a rescue group. Whereas the proprietor’s intentions have been undoubtedly noble, the scenario underscores the potential for unexpected circumstances to disrupt even probably the most well-laid plans. Accountable possession requires a sensible evaluation of 1’s potential to offer long-term care. Equines have prolonged lifespans, and their wants evolve over time. A dedication to equine possession is a dedication that extends for years, demanding adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to regulate to altering circumstances.
These narratives, woven from the threads of real-life experiences, illustrate the essential connection between accountable possession and the phenomenon of “free horses in florida.” The absence of a purchase order worth shouldn’t be mistaken for an absence of accountability. As an alternative, it ought to function a catalyst for heightened consciousness, diligent preparation, and an unwavering dedication to the well-being of those magnificent animals. The attract of “free” should be tempered by the understanding that equine possession is a privilege, not a proper, and that accountable stewardship is the value of that privilege.
5. Lengthy-term dedication very important
The phrase “free horses in florida” typically echoes with an unstated caveat: the long-term dedication is non-negotiable. The preliminary absence of a financial trade can create the phantasm of a consequence-free transaction, masking the years of devoted care and unwavering accountability that comply with. Tales flow into of people who, seduced by the attract of a free equine companion, underestimated the enduring dedication required. The story of the aged Appaloosa, gifted to a household with younger kids, serves as a poignant reminder. Initially, the horse introduced pleasure, offering mild rides and a way of connection to nature. Nevertheless, as the kids grew older, their curiosity waned, and the dad and mom, burdened by growing work calls for, discovered themselves struggling to satisfy the horse’s wants. Veterinary payments mounted, the pasture grew to become overgrown, and the once-vibrant Appaloosa started to indicate indicators of neglect. The household, initially drawn by the prospect of a free pet, realized too late the depth of the dedication that they had undertaken. Their expertise underscores the cruel actuality that equine possession, whatever the preliminary price, is a pact sealed not with cash, however with time, assets, and unwavering dedication.
The connection between acquisition with out expense and the need of long-term dedication is additional illuminated by analyzing the lives of rescued mustangs. These wild horses, typically scarred by trauma and mistrust, require affected person and constant coaching to acclimate to home life. Their rehabilitation is a marathon, not a dash, demanding years of devoted effort and unwavering help. Success tales abound, showcasing the transformative energy of dedicated house owners who, regardless of dealing with challenges, stay steadfast of their dedication. Nevertheless, tales of failed adoptions additionally function a cautionary be aware, highlighting the devastating penalties of underestimating the long-term dedication required. These mustangs, returned to holding services after their adopters misplaced curiosity or lacked the abilities to handle them, typically undergo irreparable harm, their belief shattered and their future unsure. Their experiences underscore the moral crucial of contemplating the long-term implications earlier than buying any equine, notably one with a historical past of trauma or neglect. The convenience of acquisition shouldn’t overshadow the gravity of the dedication.
Finally, the narrative surrounding “free horses in florida” calls for a basic shift in perspective. The main focus shouldn’t be on the absence of price, however on the enduring accountability that equine possession entails. The query just isn’t “Can I get a horse totally free?” however slightly “Am I ready to decide to this animal for the remainder of its life, offering unwavering care, help, and compassion, whatever the challenges that will come up?” The reply to that query ought to dictate whether or not or not one embarks on the journey of equine possession, making certain that the attract of “free” is tempered by a profound understanding of the long-term dedication required. The well-being of those magnificent animals is determined by it.
6. Potential hidden liabilities
The promise of buying an equine with out upfront expense in Florida can typically obscure a panorama riddled with potential hidden liabilities. The time period “free horses in florida,” whereas seemingly easy, ceaselessly veils a posh historical past that will translate into important future prices and challenges. The absence of a purchase order worth doesn’t equate to an absence of economic or emotional funding; slightly, it might sign underlying points requiring cautious consideration. Tales abound of well-intentioned people who, captivated by the concept of a no-cost companion, have been quickly confronted with a litany of unexpected issues. These liabilities, starting from pre-existing well being situations to behavioral points rooted in previous trauma, can rework a seemingly benevolent act into a considerable burden. The story of a rescued Arabian mare, supplied freely attributable to her superior age, serves as a somber reminder. Whereas her preliminary acquisition appeared a blessing, the brand new proprietor quickly found that the mare suffered from continual laminitis, requiring specialised farrier care and ongoing remedy. The prices rapidly spiraled, exceeding the value of a youthful, more healthy equine. This narrative underscores the essential have to assess potential hidden liabilities earlier than embracing the obvious alternative of a “free horse.” The true price of possession typically extends far past the preliminary transaction, demanding an intensive understanding of the animal’s historical past and a sensible evaluation of potential future challenges.
These hidden liabilities typically manifest in refined but important methods. Pre-existing accidents, masked by superficial appearances, can resurface below the stress of coaching or using. Behavioral points, stemming from previous abuse or neglect, can current important challenges to even skilled handlers. The price of diagnosing and treating these points can rapidly accumulate, putting a pressure on each monetary assets and emotional well-being. Think about the case of a rescued thoroughbred, supplied freely after a failed racing profession. Whereas bodily sound upon preliminary inspection, the horse exhibited indicators of maximum anxiousness in unfamiliar environments. Recognized with post-traumatic stress dysfunction, the horse required specialised coaching and behavioral remedy to beat his fears. The rehabilitation course of was prolonged and costly, demanding endurance, experience, and a big monetary dedication. This instance highlights the significance of searching for skilled veterinary and behavioral assessments earlier than buying a “free horse.” An intensive analysis can reveal potential hidden liabilities, permitting potential house owners to make knowledgeable choices and put together for the challenges that will lie forward.
In conclusion, the attract of “free horses in florida” should be tempered by a sensible understanding of potential hidden liabilities. The absence of a purchase order worth shouldn’t be mistaken for an absence of accountability or monetary danger. Fairly, it ought to function a catalyst for diligent investigation, thorough evaluation, and a willingness to decide to the animal’s long-term well-being, whatever the challenges that will come up. The narratives of rescued equines, burdened by pre-existing situations and behavioral points, function potent reminders of the significance of knowledgeable decision-making. The true price of possession extends far past the preliminary transaction, demanding a complete understanding of the animal’s historical past and a sensible evaluation of potential future liabilities. Solely by means of cautious consideration and accountable planning can the obvious alternative of a “free horse” be remodeled right into a mutually helpful partnership, making certain the animal’s well-being and the proprietor’s peace of thoughts.
Incessantly Requested Questions
Navigating the panorama of equine adoption, notably when the animals are marketed with out an preliminary buy worth, typically raises a collection of essential inquiries. The following questions and solutions deal with frequent considerations and misconceptions, shedding gentle on the complexities concerned.
Query 1: Is the time period “free” actually indicative of an absence of economic dedication?
The expertise of a newcomer to the equine world rapidly dispelled this notion. Lured by an commercial for an equine given away, the person quickly found that “free” referred solely to the preliminary transaction. Veterinary payments, farrier providers, specialised feed, and the development of ample shelter proved to be substantial and recurring bills, reworking the perceived discount into a big monetary accountability.
Query 2: What components contribute to the provision of equines supplied with out price?
A former equine breeder, dealing with mounting debt and dwindling assets, gives a somber reply. Financial hardship, coupled with an incapacity to adequately look after the animals, pressured the breeder to relinquish possession. Abandonment, neglect, and the lack to afford veterinary care additionally contribute to conditions the place equines change into obtainable with out cost.
Query 3: How do rescue organizations make sure the well-being of those equines throughout the adoption course of?
The director of a famend equine rescue provides perception. Stringent adoption necessities, together with background checks, property inspections, and monetary assessments, are applied to make sure that potential house owners are able to offering correct care. Comply with-up visits and contractual obligations additional safeguard the animals’ well-being.
Query 4: What are the potential hidden liabilities related to buying an equine supplied with out price?
A veterinarian with years of expertise in equine rehabilitation reveals a sobering reality. Pre-existing well being situations, corresponding to continual lameness or respiratory points, are sometimes masked on the time of adoption. Behavioral issues, stemming from previous abuse or neglect, may current important challenges, requiring specialised coaching and therapeutic intervention.
Query 5: What stage of experience is required to responsibly look after an equine acquired with out cost?
A seasoned equestrian coach emphasizes the significance of data and expertise. An intensive understanding of equine habits, diet, and well being is crucial for accountable stewardship. The flexibility to acknowledge indicators of sickness or misery, in addition to the abilities to offer fundamental care, are essential for making certain the animal’s well-being.
Query 6: What’s the single most essential issue to contemplate earlier than buying an equine supplied with out price?
An skilled equine rescuer provides a poignant reply. The long-term dedication is paramount. Equine possession just isn’t a fleeting fancy; it’s a lifelong accountability. Potential house owners should be ready to offer unwavering care, help, and compassion at some stage in the animal’s life, whatever the challenges that will come up.
Finally, the acquisition of an equine, whatever the preliminary price, calls for a profound dedication to its well-being. Potential house owners should be ready to speculate the time, assets, and experience essential to offer a protected, wholesome, and fulfilling life for his or her equine companion.
The following part will delve into assets obtainable for these involved in equine adoption and accountable possession in Florida.
Navigating Equine Acquisition
The whisper of “free horses in florida” can lure the unsuspecting right into a world demanding greater than preliminary expectations enable. Think about this not a information to bargains, however a compass for a journey crammed with potential pitfalls.
Tip 1: Scrutinize the Supply. The handwritten signal tacked to the feed retailer bulletin board guarantees a delicate mare, “free to good residence.” Query this generosity. Examine the proprietor’s circumstances. Is it a real act of kindness, or a determined try to dump an issue? A hurried transaction spells future hassle. Confirm the explanation behind the providing. Is it documented monetary hardship, or a hazy story of a “modified scenario?” Belief, however confirm. Seek the advice of native equine consultants in regards to the supply popularity.
Tip 2: Prioritize Veterinary Evaluation. Ignore the superficial shine. A shiny coat can masks underlying illnesses. Interact a certified veterinarian for an intensive examination. A pre-purchase examination, sometimes borne by the potential purchaser, turns into non-negotiable. Demand a complete report, detailing any pre-existing situations, potential liabilities, and long-term care necessities. This evaluation just isn’t an expense; it’s an funding in knowledgeable decision-making. A seemingly small limp can reveal a deep-seated problem.
Tip 3: Assess Experience Truthfully. The need to offer a loving residence doesn’t equate to competence. Equine care calls for specialised data. Be trustworthy about your abilities and limitations. Search steerage from skilled trainers, farriers, and veterinarians. Enroll in equine administration programs. Shadow seasoned horse house owners. Information just isn’t merely useful; it’s important for accountable possession. A single error in judgment can have devastating penalties.
Tip 4: Calculate the True Price. The absence of an preliminary worth is a mirage. Equine possession is a financially demanding endeavor. Calculate the price of feed, farrier providers, veterinary care, shelter, and coaching. Think about potential emergencies and sudden bills. Create an in depth finances, and rigorously assess its feasibility. Monetary stability just isn’t merely fascinating; it’s a prerequisite for accountable possession. An incapacity to afford correct care is a type of neglect.
Tip 5: Put together for Lengthy-Time period Dedication. Equines aren’t disposable commodities. They’re sentient beings deserving of lifelong care. Earlier than buying an equine, confront the fact of long-term dedication. Assess your potential to offer unwavering care, even within the face of private challenges and monetary hardships. Think about the animal’s lifespan and potential future wants. Lengthy-term dedication just isn’t merely a accountability; it’s an moral crucial.
Tip 6: Perceive Native Rules. Equine possession just isn’t with out authorized constraints. Analysis native zoning laws, fencing necessities, and animal welfare legal guidelines. Guarantee compliance with all relevant ordinances. Ignorance of the legislation just isn’t an excuse. Accountable possession contains adherence to authorized and regulatory frameworks.
Tip 7: Domesticate a Help Community. Isolation is a recipe for catastrophe. Domesticate a community of skilled equine house owners, veterinarians, and trainers. Search steerage and help from these people. Study from their successes and errors. Collaboration and shared data are important for accountable possession. Don’t hesitate to ask for assist.
These steps, whereas demanding, provide the very best likelihood of a profitable partnership. The siren track of “free horses in florida” needs to be met with a measured, knowledgeable strategy.
The following conclusion synthesizes key parts explored.
The Echo of a Present
The search for equines supplied with out speedy price inside Florida revealed a tapestry woven with each alternative and peril. The exploration illuminated that “free horses in florida” is a phrase pregnant with unstated caveats. Tales emerged of well-intentioned people, drawn by the attract of a zero-dollar transaction, solely to search out themselves dealing with a mountain of unexpected obligations and bills. Rescue organizations stood as beacons of hope, tirelessly working to make sure the well-being of those susceptible creatures, whereas additionally demanding stringent adoption necessities. The truth of considerable rehabilitation prices and absolutely the necessity of long-term dedication grew to become starkly clear. Hidden liabilities lurked beneath the floor, able to ensnare the unprepared. The promise of “free” proved to be an phantasm, a siren track that masked the profound obligations inherent in equine possession.
Think about the story of a younger lady, eyes alight with the dream of proudly owning a horse, convincing her dad and mom {that a} “free horse” was the reply to their prayers. They introduced residence a uncared for palomino, solely to find the true worth was paid in numerous hours of care, sudden vet payments, and the gnawing concern that they may not be capable of present adequately. The dream morphed right into a grueling check of dedication, a continuing battle towards monetary pressure and emotional fatigue. This narrative serves as a potent reminder: the accountability for these magnificent animals rests squarely on human shoulders, demanding not only a love of horses, however a deep-seated dedication to their well-being. The echo of “free horses in florida” ought to serve not as an invite to accumulate, however as a name to motion: a name to teach, to arrange, and to commit, making certain that each equine finds not only a residence, however a lifetime of devoted care.
