Redwings Horse Sanctuary has a unique story in its rescue of a horse named Topper.
Split My Zipper, more affectionately named Topper, is a Quarter Horse gelding born February 26, 1994 to one of the top amateur showers in the state of California. Topper’s Dad, Zipped My Zipper, won Reserve Champion at the Quarter Horse Congress, 3rd place at the Quarter Horse World Show in Junior Western Pleasure, and has over $18,000 in lifetime show earnings. Continuing his dad’s legacy, Topper trained as a halter and western pleasure show horse.
Topper lived a happy life until he sustained a terrible tendon injury. His veterinarian diagnosed him with a calcified tendon that meant his days of western pleasure, as well as any other riding, were over. His owner tried valiantly to help ease his discomfort and find him a home as a companion animal. But several failed attempts left him with no apparent options until a vet had an unusual suggestion for his owner to consider: Topper could provide plasma to use for other horses in need. His owner quickly agreed, and Topper found a new home at one of these facilities.
Topper’s blood provided antibodies that have helped save countless horses and foals that have had life-threatening diseases. This collection does not affect Topper’s health, and does not leave him without the antibodies that he needs for his day-to-day survival. Topper was under the care of this facility for six years in this critical life-saving role.
His former owners thought his supply of antibodies was endless, but the plasma facility contacted them this year because he could no longer provide enough antibodies without endangering his own health. His former owners did not expect to have to take Topper back, and had no place for him because they had moved. With just 30 days to move him from the facility and re-home him, they were referred to Redwings where the staff and board found his story unusual and inspiring. On September 4, 2009, Topper arrived at his new home at the Redwings ranch in Lockwood where he will teach people about the needs of sick horses, and how his blood provided for them. Committed to a lifetime of community service and equine health education, Topper deserves his place in our pastures where he will help us extend our commitment to equine education.
Topper is doing well in his new home, and the staff at Redwings is excited to show you how happy and wonderful this special equine really is.
