Sadie was my first horse. I got her 10 years ago when she was about 15. She had intermittant lameness and other problems, so I only rode her lightly for a few years before I retired her. Recently I found out that her problem was DSLD/ESPA, and was able to make her more comfortable for her last few months with the help of a Chinese herb called Jiaogulan.

She died about a month ago, in her late 20's. She had such heart and was the kindest sweetest horse I have ever met. She even won over people who were afraid of horses. My whole neighborhood is sad because she is gone.

I used to let her wander up and down the street to eat grass in the drainage ditches, as I have no pasture. Various neighbors with more land would invite her into their yard and she would hang out with them. The seniors (in their 80's) particularly loved having her come by because she was very careful moving around people, and they could pet her without fear of being stepped on.

I also let her wander around inmy front yard and she would hang out by a window where she could get a little AC or heat leaking from my mobile home. Her absence haunts me...I walk around the corner of my MH thinking I saw the swish of that silver tail, and nothing is there. I get ready to feed my horses and set up 4 buckets to fill before I realize I only have three horses now. I go out a bedtime with four treats and peer in the dark looking for a set of lips to take the 4th carrot.

I know that with time these forgetful moments will fade...I am treasuring them while they recur until the day I can no longer fel her prescence here.

Margo

I am so sorry for your loss of Sadie, sounds like you two had a special bond.

It is hard when a horse friend passes. They always listen. And rarely complain. You can really sense their interest in you. I think they even can tell when we are having a bad day. My horse always seems to be a little calmer when I am bummed.

I hope you find a new great friend.

I am sorry for your loss, truly.

LR