Horses are an everyday part of Tamera Powers’ life, so when she was asked to help gather up some horses that had gotten loose in her community, she did not hesitate.

Seven adult horses, a foal and a donkey were roaming around near Mose Chapel Road last week. Madison Animal Control, along with Madison Police, helped try to find the animals’ owner.

Powers, who has 17 horses that stay on her farm Sunshine Oaks full time, said she volunteered to keep the horses until the owner was found.

Powers said that she has always loved horses since she was a little girl.

“I love all animals, but horses are my favorite because there’s always something new to learn about them,” Powers said. “They’re very interesting, complex creatures. Every day is a new experience with them.”

Powers said that it is believed that the horses got loose because the lock on the horses’ gate was cut. She said she returned the horses after three days.

“The owner doesn’t stay here,” Powers said. “He came and got them once he found out. He is a real nice man from Tanner.”

Powers said the community always comes together to help others out. Powers said she didn’t mind taking care of the horses.

She said she often takes in stray animals. She said the newest addition to her farm was a cat that she found on her farm Tuesday.

Sunshine Oaks is a full service boarding facility. The farm also offers riding lessons and horse training.

The farm has many animals including a Great Dane, a goat, a pig and Yorkshire Terriers that Powers breeds, along with the horses.

Powers said that she is at risk of losing her farm. She is currently trying to buy her ex-husband’s half of the farm so she can keep the farm for the children of the community.

“I hope I can keep this place,” Powers said. “It’s a safe haven for children and animals. If there are any businessmen that would like to invest in it, we could certainly use the help.”

For more information, visit Sunshineoaks.com.