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Original poster

My 31 yr old pony was PTS yesterday. Totally heartbroken, anyone been through similar with words of advice?

14 replies

ally2104 · 19/09/2009 13:29

I'd had him for 23 yrs, since I was 12. He was my first pony, and I really did love him more than anything else,(apart from DH and DD). He went mercifully quickly- went down with colic around 10am yesterday and after two visits from the vet was diagnosed with twisted gut. There was nothing she could do, so he was put out of his pain at 3.05pm.
I think I'm just having real trouble coming to terms with the fact I'm never going to see him again, never going to hear him whinny at me or boot the door for his food, and my DD will not remember him, (she is only 8 months).
I cannot stop crying, and am also so worried about what it will be like for him on 'the other side', (assuming there is one). I probably sound mad, but he depended on me for everything, how will he cope without me?
If anyone has been through similar and has any wise words I would really appreciate it.

OP posts:
MarmadukeScarlet · 19/09/2009 14:00

Ally, I have lost 2 childhood horses in the last 8 years. One of 32 and other of 35, I had them from when I was 14.

I have no words of wisdom, but just my deepest sympathy.

I alway though, when no 2 went, that no 1 would be waiting for him winnying at the gate of a large lush meadow and off they would go kicking their heels and racing each other as they had done as youngsters.

sarah293 · 19/09/2009 14:03

This reply has been deleted

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saltyseadog · 19/09/2009 14:04

Ally - really sorry to hear this. I haven't lost a pony, only a dog, but she was my childhood dog and we'd had her for 16 yeasr. I was gutted. So I can only imagine how you feel after 23 years.

Original poster
ally2104 · 19/09/2009 14:45

Thank you everyone. Am feeling a little better now after lots of hugs from DH and DD. Marmaduke - we have lost a couple of others in the past and I am very much hoping they are reunited as you say. Thank you. xx

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everlong · 20/09/2009 20:42

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

Original poster
ally2104 · 20/09/2009 21:19

Thank you everlong. Lots of pictures around at the moment, can't believe how young and sprightly we both once looked! Have spent today clearing out his stable and starting to sort out his things, which was hard, but it gave me something to do. We are also looking into getting a portrait done of him - DH had been promising me one for years, so time to call that one in methinks. The tears are less frequent now, but tend to sneak up on me at unexpected moments, I imagine it will be that way for a while yet. Everyone with horses/ponies - give them an extra big hug and kiss in the morning, they really are so very special. xxx

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MANATEEequineOHARA · 20/09/2009 21:30

I have never yet lost a horse, but have once come very close to losing my amazing horse I have owned since I was 18, and she was 2. That was awful, and it didn't even happen, I almost can't bear to think what it would be like if she died, even though it will happen one day, she is a part of me in every way, so much I can't even explain.

My ex husband, my children's dad, recently died (any non-horsey people may think it is wierd to put a horse and human death on the same level- but to me it is not), anyway, I just needed to take the time to grieve, and just accept that I will not be 'normal' (for me!) for a while. I don't think I will ever be over it, but taking time out of life those first few weeks helped.

babyicebean · 20/09/2009 22:04

I have lost a horse - she was a fab brood mare and a huge loss to the yard - BUT you are greiving for a family member, he may have been 'just a horse' but to you he was a member of the family.

Putting them to sleep was the hardest thing to do as you always hope you can save them.

Someone (can't remember who) said they wait on the other side of the rainbow and when you go they meet you there and you both go wherever.
A bit sentimental but at the time it was fitting.

valhala · 20/09/2009 23:43

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...

My heart is with you. You have done the last possible kindness for your friend and are to be respected for your lack of selfishness and bravery. Been there with beloved dogs and I know how much it hurts hun.

I hope tomorrow dawns a better day for you and that you remember all the good times with a smile.

Original poster
ally2104 · 21/09/2009 10:18

Thank you so much everyone, your kind words really do mean a lot to me. Valhala - I love that story and so hope it's true. I've got a couple of much loved dogs waiting there for me too. Hopefully they have found my boy and they're all happy together.
Am feeling a bit lost today as Dh has had to go back to work, so it's just me and DD, and we'd normally be at the yard now. Am thinking of popping her in the car and going down to Brighton, I think a bracing walk along the front might be just what I need. Bless you all and thanks again. xxxxx

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MitchyInge · 21/09/2009 10:21

sorry for your loss

I can't bear to imagine it but hope your dogs give you some comfort

englishpatient · 21/09/2009 12:27

Am nearly crying reading this! Had to have my beloved cat put to sleep 2 yrs ago after 17 years, and it's horrible.

At least you have given your pony a lovely long life and then a quick end - the best outcome for him. I totally sympathise with you and hope you have a lovely day with DD today.

junglist1 · 21/09/2009 19:44

Your dogs and your horse are together, chasing each other around, playing together, waiting till you can all be together again. Animals are family and they wait for us just like human relatives

Original poster
ally2104 · 21/09/2009 21:03

You are all lovely - thank you. Had a nice afternoon, it was beautiful and sunny in Brighton, so DD and I went on the pier and wandered down the beach. We gazed out at the sea, (well, I gazed, she just looked bemused), which I found very calming. Also had a lovely text from a friend at the stables who also lost her old boy recently after 20+ years. She assured me that they would be happily grazing together in pony heaven. Made me cry again, but very comforting too. xx

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