The Final Sunset...
The passing of your special horse friend will be handled with the utmost compassion and respect for both you and your horse. We've been where you are...having said goodbye to our own, and understand the heartache this difficult time can cause. As long as law allows us, you can choose to bury your horse here on the farm. We would like you to choose from several trees we have selected in honor of your horse. Planting this new life at their graveside will provide a living memorial for years to come. We will also handle the arrangements for cremation services by Faithful Friends, if you so choose.
A Living Memorial
The Final Sunset Resting Place has grown into quite an orchard. A tree is planted at the burial site when each horse passes away. When the fruit is harvested, it is shared back with the horses that were past herd mates. As well as being a permanent burial marker, the trees are a beautiful reminder of the circle of life. We always enjoy the delicious pears and apples as well! The area is also home to our apiary. The bee colonies do an awesome job pollinating all the fruit trees. The trees help the bees maintain their colonies with the plentiful pollen.
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Final Sunset Memorials
Cappucino 1997 - May, 2023
"Cappucino" first came into our lives in Germany. He was a 1998 Holsteiner gelding and, at the time, a 17 year old girl was competing him in the 1.40m level. Our trainer at the time told us about him and how easy he was to ride. At first, while trying him, things did not go to plan, but afterwards we connected like we've known each other forever. Cappucino was a beautiful and charming horse who would steal your heart the first time you saw him. Anywhere he would go around the world, he would catch everyone's attention. His stallion like attitude and bravado made him stand out from the rest. He had a personality of a winner every time he stepped into the ring He was a one in a million horse and we are all fortunate to have had him in our lives. He had some injuries that set him back but whenever he went in the ring he always tried his best. His heart was bigger than him. I miss him everyday in the show ring but I can live peacefully because he spent ten happy years enjoying his retirement at Weber's Retired Horses, LLC.
Cappucino and Roger
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Cappucino enjoying his retirement.
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Cappucino leading his buddies out to pasture on a snowy day.
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Dolce Vita 2001- June 27, 2023
“Dolce Vita” is Italian for “Sweet Life”, a perfect description of a life well lived by a super sweet bay gelding we have had the privilege to care for. Multiple complications contributed to that “sweet life” being laid to rest on 6-27-23.
Three years ago, Dolce almost didn’t make it to Ky from Boston. He retired during that first year of Covid, and his owner flew down to be here when he arrived. Terri waited patiently but no horse. The facts trickled in. Sadly, the driver had suffered a stroke as he was hauling the horses, but managed to pull off to the side of the road and call 911. The local authorities were able to contact some horse people who managed to provide some temporary stabling until another arrangement could be made to complete the trip as the driver remained hospitalized.
A very independent soul, Dolce was not herd bound, and was content to stray off in the pasture by himself. He got along well with other horses but didn’t require their company. It has only been recently that we witnessed him enjoying a backscratch with Marten.
When it came to people, Dolce loved attention, a gentle rub on his face was what he enjoyed. Grooming was another story, the sensitive horse he was, it wasn’t his favorite thing.
Highly allergic to many feeds, we had to be super careful about what Dolce could eat. Bananas were a favorite, but allergies to apples, carrots, and horse treats were forbidden. This day was an exception, as we knew he would soon cross the rainbow bridge, he got to enjoy everything he had been missing for at least the last fifteen years. Usually pawing his door to ask to be fed, on this day, he didn’t have to beg. We spoiled him until apples were literally falling out of his mouth with foamy sticky slobber. A fitting sugary ending to a very “sweet life.”
Terri’s summary of his decorated career is as follows. Dolce Vita LHF was a 2001 Dark Bay Hanoverian gelding imported from Germany. His father was the late, great DeNiro. Dolce has been with his owner, Terri Feldman, since he was 6 years old. Although he had a rocky start to his competitive career in dressage, 11 years later he finished as a perfect gentleman and the consummate professional. Dolce won various regional Champion and Reserve Champion titles at Second, Third (regular and Freestyle) and Fourth Level (Freestyle). In 2015 he represented Region 8 at USDF Nationals for Third Level (regular and Freestyle). In his career he competed at Prix St George and assisted many riders in finishing off their bronze and silver medal requirements. He was Terri’s only partner in her quest and achievement of her USDF Bronze Medal.
“I am forever grateful for this horse coming into my life at a time when there was such personal turmoil. He gave me something to look forward to and goals to work towards on a daily basis. It has been an honor owning, caring for, and loving this horse. His retirement at Weber’s Retired Horses was more than well deserved.”
Three years ago, Dolce almost didn’t make it to Ky from Boston. He retired during that first year of Covid, and his owner flew down to be here when he arrived. Terri waited patiently but no horse. The facts trickled in. Sadly, the driver had suffered a stroke as he was hauling the horses, but managed to pull off to the side of the road and call 911. The local authorities were able to contact some horse people who managed to provide some temporary stabling until another arrangement could be made to complete the trip as the driver remained hospitalized.
A very independent soul, Dolce was not herd bound, and was content to stray off in the pasture by himself. He got along well with other horses but didn’t require their company. It has only been recently that we witnessed him enjoying a backscratch with Marten.
When it came to people, Dolce loved attention, a gentle rub on his face was what he enjoyed. Grooming was another story, the sensitive horse he was, it wasn’t his favorite thing.
Highly allergic to many feeds, we had to be super careful about what Dolce could eat. Bananas were a favorite, but allergies to apples, carrots, and horse treats were forbidden. This day was an exception, as we knew he would soon cross the rainbow bridge, he got to enjoy everything he had been missing for at least the last fifteen years. Usually pawing his door to ask to be fed, on this day, he didn’t have to beg. We spoiled him until apples were literally falling out of his mouth with foamy sticky slobber. A fitting sugary ending to a very “sweet life.”
Terri’s summary of his decorated career is as follows. Dolce Vita LHF was a 2001 Dark Bay Hanoverian gelding imported from Germany. His father was the late, great DeNiro. Dolce has been with his owner, Terri Feldman, since he was 6 years old. Although he had a rocky start to his competitive career in dressage, 11 years later he finished as a perfect gentleman and the consummate professional. Dolce won various regional Champion and Reserve Champion titles at Second, Third (regular and Freestyle) and Fourth Level (Freestyle). In 2015 he represented Region 8 at USDF Nationals for Third Level (regular and Freestyle). In his career he competed at Prix St George and assisted many riders in finishing off their bronze and silver medal requirements. He was Terri’s only partner in her quest and achievement of her USDF Bronze Medal.
“I am forever grateful for this horse coming into my life at a time when there was such personal turmoil. He gave me something to look forward to and goals to work towards on a daily basis. It has been an honor owning, caring for, and loving this horse. His retirement at Weber’s Retired Horses was more than well deserved.”
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Serendipity's Silver Smoke 1988- March 28, 2023
April 2022, we welcomed Smokey to the farm. He was a true "senior" with all the typical ailments a horse of his age might experience. He suffered from Cushings, melanomas, had previous colic surgery, and had also had a bout of laminitis two years prior. He even had his tail removed due to severe melanomas. His tongue hung out of his mouth as he didn't have any teeth left to chew properly. Maintaining his weight was a real problem when he arrived. His previous vet wasn't even sure if he would be able to regain his weight, since there was a possibility, he was full of internal tumors.
Upon his arrival, we took all his maladies into consideration and developed a plan to see if he would gain weight. Slowly, we made changes to his diet, and he began to thrive. You can see the changes over time in his photos.
At only 14.2, the little Connemara had a personality larger than life. He had a great appetite and was full of spunk and vigor, and you wouldn't have guessed he was 34 by his actions. We were enamored with his zest and willingness to please. He would even bow for a carrot when asked. Smokey also loved his stablemate, Marten, very much. as they had been together for many years. He was known for throwing quiet the tantrum when Marten was not in his sight.
Smokey experienced a luxury that many horses are not blessed with. He only had two owners in his 35 years, the latter purchased him from the former when she went off to college. His current owner also was committed to give Smokey every opportunity to have a full life and spared no expense to meet his many needs. His spirit always said he wasn't finished on this earth as he overcame many health issues.
Smokey was an accomplished jumping pony and helped many young girls along their journey to learn to ride. He loved being ridden along the ocean shores at Cape Cod, on occasion racing across the sand dunes in all his glory.
Around the first of this year, Smokey began to slow down eventually losing his appetite. The years finally began to catch up with him and his body simply wore out. His blood work and vet check concurred what we were seeing, as we watched the spark slowly dim from his eyes.
The last couple of days he had distanced himself from his herd, no longer caring when his best buddy, Marten, was taken from the pasture before him. His final days were quiet and peaceful, as he laid quietly curled up in his stall when he grew tired. His actions confirmed what his vital signs were telling us, he was resolved to go.
The "little engine that could" was with us for just under a year. His passion for enjoying life was admirable, I hope one day, when each of us reach our golden years, we can muster all the spunk that Smokey exhibited until his last days. He was laid him to rest on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.
April 2022, we welcomed Smokey to the farm. He was a true "senior" with all the typical ailments a horse of his age might experience. He suffered from Cushings, melanomas, had previous colic surgery, and had also had a bout of laminitis two years prior. He even had his tail removed due to severe melanomas. His tongue hung out of his mouth as he didn't have any teeth left to chew properly. Maintaining his weight was a real problem when he arrived. His previous vet wasn't even sure if he would be able to regain his weight, since there was a possibility, he was full of internal tumors.
Upon his arrival, we took all his maladies into consideration and developed a plan to see if he would gain weight. Slowly, we made changes to his diet, and he began to thrive. You can see the changes over time in his photos.
At only 14.2, the little Connemara had a personality larger than life. He had a great appetite and was full of spunk and vigor, and you wouldn't have guessed he was 34 by his actions. We were enamored with his zest and willingness to please. He would even bow for a carrot when asked. Smokey also loved his stablemate, Marten, very much. as they had been together for many years. He was known for throwing quiet the tantrum when Marten was not in his sight.
Smokey experienced a luxury that many horses are not blessed with. He only had two owners in his 35 years, the latter purchased him from the former when she went off to college. His current owner also was committed to give Smokey every opportunity to have a full life and spared no expense to meet his many needs. His spirit always said he wasn't finished on this earth as he overcame many health issues.
Smokey was an accomplished jumping pony and helped many young girls along their journey to learn to ride. He loved being ridden along the ocean shores at Cape Cod, on occasion racing across the sand dunes in all his glory.
Around the first of this year, Smokey began to slow down eventually losing his appetite. The years finally began to catch up with him and his body simply wore out. His blood work and vet check concurred what we were seeing, as we watched the spark slowly dim from his eyes.
The last couple of days he had distanced himself from his herd, no longer caring when his best buddy, Marten, was taken from the pasture before him. His final days were quiet and peaceful, as he laid quietly curled up in his stall when he grew tired. His actions confirmed what his vital signs were telling us, he was resolved to go.
The "little engine that could" was with us for just under a year. His passion for enjoying life was admirable, I hope one day, when each of us reach our golden years, we can muster all the spunk that Smokey exhibited until his last days. He was laid him to rest on Tuesday, March 28, 2023.
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TIA 1991 - 11-28-22
Blondie's Double Bar, aka "Tia", was foaled in Cashton, Wisconsin in May of 1991. We came to know her as a 10 year old palomino mare at our previous farm in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Owned by a cowboy who enjoyed riding the trail, Tia was a steady mount with a spark in her step. Standing only 14.3 hands, she wasn't a big mare in stature, but one wouldn't know it by her personality. She was clearly the boss mare and could run backwards kicking with double barrels at any horse she even thought might challenge her. She led a herd of about fifteen mares and geldings roaming a 20 acre pasture.
After a four-year lapse, Tia came back into our lives in June of 2010, as one of three original retirees. What was originally going to be a temporary stop for those three horses while their family relocated to Florida, ended up being a well-deserved retirement. Tia established herself right back at the top of the pecking order as she adjusted with our existing horses. She remained boss mare for a number of years until she eventually began to slow down, and a much younger mare ousted her from her throne. She remained second fiddle to Fefe up until her passing. In contrast to her toughness with other horses, the pretty little palomino was gold with her people. She was well mannered, good minded, and enjoyed being groomed and fussed over. She was never ill tempered with her care takers.
Besides her age-related conditions, Tia suffered from a thyroid tumor for about the last five years. It had grown to the size of a large grapefruit and was beginning to threaten the vital structures in her throat. Slowing considerably in the last year, she battled to keep up with her little mare herd. We watched her struggle as she came in from the pasture every day, as she would take several breaks to rest as the other mares went on ahead of her. After 12 1/2 years here, Tia is in her final resting spot, laid down on 11/28/2022. Being the standout she was, in both looks and temperament, she will definitely leave a void here on the farm.
After a four-year lapse, Tia came back into our lives in June of 2010, as one of three original retirees. What was originally going to be a temporary stop for those three horses while their family relocated to Florida, ended up being a well-deserved retirement. Tia established herself right back at the top of the pecking order as she adjusted with our existing horses. She remained boss mare for a number of years until she eventually began to slow down, and a much younger mare ousted her from her throne. She remained second fiddle to Fefe up until her passing. In contrast to her toughness with other horses, the pretty little palomino was gold with her people. She was well mannered, good minded, and enjoyed being groomed and fussed over. She was never ill tempered with her care takers.
Besides her age-related conditions, Tia suffered from a thyroid tumor for about the last five years. It had grown to the size of a large grapefruit and was beginning to threaten the vital structures in her throat. Slowing considerably in the last year, she battled to keep up with her little mare herd. We watched her struggle as she came in from the pasture every day, as she would take several breaks to rest as the other mares went on ahead of her. After 12 1/2 years here, Tia is in her final resting spot, laid down on 11/28/2022. Being the standout she was, in both looks and temperament, she will definitely leave a void here on the farm.
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ALY CAT 1995 -11-28-2022
Aly, at age 27, left this world with a broken heart. The spirited Thoroughbred gelding who charmed us all with his big personality and handsome looks also suffered from a bad case of separation anxiety. The loss of his last friend five weeks ago, crushed his will to live, and his quality of life significantly diminished. We tried putting him with new friends, and several geldings did their best to try and play with him. It was to no avail, as the horse who never wanted to be alone, left the herd everyday and would go stand by himself. Even the vet noticed him standing depressed in the pasture as she pulled in one day.
Aly's retirement story actually began in late 2010 when his owner contacted us about his possible retirement. We emailed back and forth, and she eventually decided to give him the winter and "hope for a miracle" as he was suffering from a kissing spine. Still being in the early years of our business, I had decided to reach out to her the next summer to see if Aly reaped his miracle. Unfortunately he had not. Her barn had also referred her to another retirement facility familiar to them, and ultimately, Aly went there that fall. The story continued as a visit to Aly in early December found him injured and in unsatisfactory condition. We were contacted, he arrived in January (just two weeks after Trego joined us), and the next decade is history. Aly thrived here, as did several of his previous stablemates when they joined him here over the years.
In his early life, Aly Cat raced seventy-six times and never won a race, eventually finding more success in the dressage arena. An unusual illness sidelined him when he was still in Boston, MA. Tufts University discovered a porcupine quill in his abdomen that had been walled off some time before and began to give him problems. After a full recovery, they featured him in an article entitled, "A Quill to Live" in their medical publication. It was finally a knee injury and a kissing spine that signaled time for his retirement.
Aly wore his heart on his sleeve, you could always tell if something upset him or he was hurting. He had some "tells" when his back was bothering him and we would treat him. Several years ago, he started bobbing his head up and down when he ate his grain. We figured out that arthritis in his spine caused him discomfort when he flexed his poll as he ate out of his hanging bucket. We changed him to a floor feeder and he happily ate again. Aly was always pleasant and well mannered. His biggest issue was the separation anxiety. He didn't go out first, and he didn't get left until last. He did not want to be alone! In the early years Aly hung with Good Job and Chewy, at that point Good Job was most infatuated with Chewy. After Chewy passed away, Good Job latched onto Aly like velcro! The pair also hung with Mikey and Trego who were close buddies. After Mikey passed in 2016, the three bay Musketeers were formed and became inseparable.
Aly, Good Job, and Trego LOVED to play! They loved to run! They loved to grab onto each other's chins and onto each other's tails. They were all Thoroughbreds, which means they weren't brave, they were thin skinned, had thin hoof walls, and ate A LOT! They were a very happy little trio of geldings who loved life. The final chapter in the story of these three bays, who spent the last six years together, has come to an end. Good Job was laid to rest in June, and Trego's Final Sunset was in late October. Aly Cat was laid to rest on Monday, 11-28-22. The three of them now lay side by side in our Final Sunset area, together again, after all retiring within months of each other way back in 2012. Aly has left us with a multitude of memories, most of which are intertwined like a cord with Good Job and Trego. May we all find such friends in life.
Aly's retirement story actually began in late 2010 when his owner contacted us about his possible retirement. We emailed back and forth, and she eventually decided to give him the winter and "hope for a miracle" as he was suffering from a kissing spine. Still being in the early years of our business, I had decided to reach out to her the next summer to see if Aly reaped his miracle. Unfortunately he had not. Her barn had also referred her to another retirement facility familiar to them, and ultimately, Aly went there that fall. The story continued as a visit to Aly in early December found him injured and in unsatisfactory condition. We were contacted, he arrived in January (just two weeks after Trego joined us), and the next decade is history. Aly thrived here, as did several of his previous stablemates when they joined him here over the years.
In his early life, Aly Cat raced seventy-six times and never won a race, eventually finding more success in the dressage arena. An unusual illness sidelined him when he was still in Boston, MA. Tufts University discovered a porcupine quill in his abdomen that had been walled off some time before and began to give him problems. After a full recovery, they featured him in an article entitled, "A Quill to Live" in their medical publication. It was finally a knee injury and a kissing spine that signaled time for his retirement.
Aly wore his heart on his sleeve, you could always tell if something upset him or he was hurting. He had some "tells" when his back was bothering him and we would treat him. Several years ago, he started bobbing his head up and down when he ate his grain. We figured out that arthritis in his spine caused him discomfort when he flexed his poll as he ate out of his hanging bucket. We changed him to a floor feeder and he happily ate again. Aly was always pleasant and well mannered. His biggest issue was the separation anxiety. He didn't go out first, and he didn't get left until last. He did not want to be alone! In the early years Aly hung with Good Job and Chewy, at that point Good Job was most infatuated with Chewy. After Chewy passed away, Good Job latched onto Aly like velcro! The pair also hung with Mikey and Trego who were close buddies. After Mikey passed in 2016, the three bay Musketeers were formed and became inseparable.
Aly, Good Job, and Trego LOVED to play! They loved to run! They loved to grab onto each other's chins and onto each other's tails. They were all Thoroughbreds, which means they weren't brave, they were thin skinned, had thin hoof walls, and ate A LOT! They were a very happy little trio of geldings who loved life. The final chapter in the story of these three bays, who spent the last six years together, has come to an end. Good Job was laid to rest in June, and Trego's Final Sunset was in late October. Aly Cat was laid to rest on Monday, 11-28-22. The three of them now lay side by side in our Final Sunset area, together again, after all retiring within months of each other way back in 2012. Aly has left us with a multitude of memories, most of which are intertwined like a cord with Good Job and Trego. May we all find such friends in life.
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UMA 2006 to 11-17-2022
An eerie silence hung in the air as I walked into the barn for bedtime barn check. One doesn't always realize the impact just one personality can make in the whole "feel" of the barn. Gone too soon was our barn crier. That one voice that rang out the moment she heard our garage door open up in the morning. She cued all the others that it was time for breakfast, time to go out, or time for bedtime cookies. Uma was a very talkative horse, anyone who knew her would vouch for that. Sadly, she was laid to rest on Thursday unexpectedly after a previous history of colic.
Late summer of 2021, a gorgeous black mare joined our farm family from Massachusetts. Her owner, Edye, provided a short bio for her: "Uma was born in May of 2006. She came to us from Arkansas with a long flowing black mane and very full feathers. Uma was born with a conformation problem affecting her back legs, so when she worked hard, her feet banged up against each other. She was unable to be shown because of that reason, but it never stopped her from being the most lovable pet in the barn. If you would allow it she would jump in your pocket and stay there forever."
We agree, she was clearly a people person from the very beginning. The big lover girl would be all over you if you were trying to clean her stall with her in it. I really think she wanted to be a lap dog, but at 1300 lbs.....? Lol! Uma had a very meek personality with the other mares. It took some adjusting for her to realize life in a herd was a good thing, but once she did, she was in heaven! She latched on to our little palomino, Ellie, and had a friend from the start. Playing in water was also a favorite activity Uma enjoyed. She would splash, play, and roll in the creek, she would also use her big head and throw all the water out of the water tank. It became a priority to catch Uma when the mares came up from the pasture before she emptied the tank every day! This gorgeous girl only graced our pastures for about 15 months and we will miss her, however, she made us laugh, and left us with memories of how much affection a horse really can show to their people. She was one of a kind for sure
Late summer of 2021, a gorgeous black mare joined our farm family from Massachusetts. Her owner, Edye, provided a short bio for her: "Uma was born in May of 2006. She came to us from Arkansas with a long flowing black mane and very full feathers. Uma was born with a conformation problem affecting her back legs, so when she worked hard, her feet banged up against each other. She was unable to be shown because of that reason, but it never stopped her from being the most lovable pet in the barn. If you would allow it she would jump in your pocket and stay there forever."
We agree, she was clearly a people person from the very beginning. The big lover girl would be all over you if you were trying to clean her stall with her in it. I really think she wanted to be a lap dog, but at 1300 lbs.....? Lol! Uma had a very meek personality with the other mares. It took some adjusting for her to realize life in a herd was a good thing, but once she did, she was in heaven! She latched on to our little palomino, Ellie, and had a friend from the start. Playing in water was also a favorite activity Uma enjoyed. She would splash, play, and roll in the creek, she would also use her big head and throw all the water out of the water tank. It became a priority to catch Uma when the mares came up from the pasture before she emptied the tank every day! This gorgeous girl only graced our pastures for about 15 months and we will miss her, however, she made us laugh, and left us with memories of how much affection a horse really can show to their people. She was one of a kind for sure
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TREGO 1992 to 10-21-2022
Trego was a handsome Thoroughbred who had an off and on lameness that shortened his riding career at the age of 20. After an incident where Trego’s exuberance for life caused him an injury, and also deemed him somewhat of a problem horse to handle, his owner knew they needed to make a change to better meet his needs.
Horses don’t speak English. However, they DO talk. One of the most challenging, yet rewarding components of our job is figuring out each new horse that arrives. We have to really take time to observe them in different situations and learn to read their unique individual responses. We have to get to know them, and they have to get to know, and learn, to trust us. That’s how it was with Trego. He wasn’t a problem, we just had to come to an understanding of our expectations, and we needed to meet the needs he had.
Exuberance for life and a loyal friend are two traits of Trego’s personality. I think you will see this expressive look in many of his photos. His main issue was that he was just full of himself. He was a handful and would get out to play and just try and make the most of every moment. Soon he learned that “recess” wasn’t over in 30 minutes and he began to relax and slow down.
Trego loved to play with the other horses, he would grab halters, sticks, feed pans, or anything else he could deem a toy and entertain himself playing with it. One thing he was known for was what we called his “rain dances”. He did NOT like being rained on! He would rear up, paw the air, and spin around multiple times. He never really got used to the rain, he just got to arthritic to do the dance any more.
A few years into his retirement here, it was discovered that Trego had a severe heart murmur. So severe he would often developed nose bleeds from pulmonary hemorrhaging when he played too hard. We were sure he would just be playing one day and his heart would give out. He may of had a bad physical heart, but he had more try and zeal for life than most!
He loved his buddies, Tanner and then Mikey, were two of his favorites for a good part of his time here. In more recent years, he became one of the “Three Musketeers” as our son, Bob, called them. Good Job, Aly, and Trego made up the three bays who were rarely seen apart.
I will say this about Trego, he was a very loving horse, he would melt his forehead into your chest when you caressed his face, and he loved you to take both hands and gently rub the tops of his ears. When it came to being groomed he was a typical thin skinned Thoroughbred and preferred the softest brush.
Trego was just a couple of months short of spending 11 years as part of our farm family and it is difficult to summarize such a long relationship with a unique horse in just a few paragraphs. We are grateful Rick and Judie shared their special horse with us. I know we all will have many fond memories to cherish.
Horses don’t speak English. However, they DO talk. One of the most challenging, yet rewarding components of our job is figuring out each new horse that arrives. We have to really take time to observe them in different situations and learn to read their unique individual responses. We have to get to know them, and they have to get to know, and learn, to trust us. That’s how it was with Trego. He wasn’t a problem, we just had to come to an understanding of our expectations, and we needed to meet the needs he had.
Exuberance for life and a loyal friend are two traits of Trego’s personality. I think you will see this expressive look in many of his photos. His main issue was that he was just full of himself. He was a handful and would get out to play and just try and make the most of every moment. Soon he learned that “recess” wasn’t over in 30 minutes and he began to relax and slow down.
Trego loved to play with the other horses, he would grab halters, sticks, feed pans, or anything else he could deem a toy and entertain himself playing with it. One thing he was known for was what we called his “rain dances”. He did NOT like being rained on! He would rear up, paw the air, and spin around multiple times. He never really got used to the rain, he just got to arthritic to do the dance any more.
A few years into his retirement here, it was discovered that Trego had a severe heart murmur. So severe he would often developed nose bleeds from pulmonary hemorrhaging when he played too hard. We were sure he would just be playing one day and his heart would give out. He may of had a bad physical heart, but he had more try and zeal for life than most!
He loved his buddies, Tanner and then Mikey, were two of his favorites for a good part of his time here. In more recent years, he became one of the “Three Musketeers” as our son, Bob, called them. Good Job, Aly, and Trego made up the three bays who were rarely seen apart.
I will say this about Trego, he was a very loving horse, he would melt his forehead into your chest when you caressed his face, and he loved you to take both hands and gently rub the tops of his ears. When it came to being groomed he was a typical thin skinned Thoroughbred and preferred the softest brush.
Trego was just a couple of months short of spending 11 years as part of our farm family and it is difficult to summarize such a long relationship with a unique horse in just a few paragraphs. We are grateful Rick and Judie shared their special horse with us. I know we all will have many fond memories to cherish.
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GOOD JOB 1997 to 6-16-2022
June 16, 2022, marked ten years to the day that two bay geldings took a final walk and boarded a plane in Hong Kong headed to live out the rest of their days in western Kentucky. This morning the remaining of those two, took another final walk on some weary hind legs. Good Job, accompanied by his two best buddies for comfort, (Aly and Trego) walked to the Final Sunset resting place where he was laid to rest.
Good Job was very much a people horse when arrived. However, when his retirement provided him the opportunity to be with other horses, he quickly discovered he LOVED having a friend. Good Job really had two very close friends over the years. Chewy was his best buddy until he passed in 2014. Aly was also the third friend in that trio. After Chewy passed away, Good Job attached himself like VELCRO to Aly. For many many years, we could not take Aly out of Good Job’s sight without him being just frantic. Even the farrier would have to shoe Aly standing in front of Good Job’s stall. Hence we knew this final walk would involve his best friend.
Good Job had one of the biggest, kindest eyes you would see on a horse. Those eyes drew many, both near and abroad into his fan club. You couldn’t help but love him. He was also a very playful horse, he and Aly loved playing the “chin game”. They would monkey around back and forth to see who could grab the others chin and once they had it, hold on for as long as they could. Good Job usually got the best of Aly on that one. He also loved to chase Aly in circles and grab on to the base of his tail and hold on. Aly was a true friend. Many of the antics of these two playful geldings are shown in his album on the FB page. Good Job’s retirement in a photo story. We will miss that big eye on that big head for sure. Our deepest regards to Anita, and everyone who loved Good Job. We sure are glad these two horses connected us to their amazing people half way around the world. Forever farm family!
Good Job was very much a people horse when arrived. However, when his retirement provided him the opportunity to be with other horses, he quickly discovered he LOVED having a friend. Good Job really had two very close friends over the years. Chewy was his best buddy until he passed in 2014. Aly was also the third friend in that trio. After Chewy passed away, Good Job attached himself like VELCRO to Aly. For many many years, we could not take Aly out of Good Job’s sight without him being just frantic. Even the farrier would have to shoe Aly standing in front of Good Job’s stall. Hence we knew this final walk would involve his best friend.
Good Job had one of the biggest, kindest eyes you would see on a horse. Those eyes drew many, both near and abroad into his fan club. You couldn’t help but love him. He was also a very playful horse, he and Aly loved playing the “chin game”. They would monkey around back and forth to see who could grab the others chin and once they had it, hold on for as long as they could. Good Job usually got the best of Aly on that one. He also loved to chase Aly in circles and grab on to the base of his tail and hold on. Aly was a true friend. Many of the antics of these two playful geldings are shown in his album on the FB page. Good Job’s retirement in a photo story. We will miss that big eye on that big head for sure. Our deepest regards to Anita, and everyone who loved Good Job. We sure are glad these two horses connected us to their amazing people half way around the world. Forever farm family!
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Handley Cross "Newman" 1997 to 3-14-2022
Its never happened before. It seems the current days we live in should have us more prepared to expect the unexpected. Today was a beautiful spring day. The horses enjoyed breakfast in their stalls, everyone was led out to their respective pastures to spend the day munching hay and hanging out with their pals. It was just a normal day for Newman and there was no indication that it would be anything otherwise.
However, about lunchtime, Newman appeared to be laying down in the pasture as if he was just sunning himself on a nice warm day. His name was called with no response and instantly there was awareness of something wrong. None of us witnessed his passing, he just slipped away quietly with no signs he was in distress or suffered. His buddy Cappucino seemed a bit distraught, as the two horses were always led in and out to the pasture together everyday. Once in his stall, a flake of alfalfa put him at ease.
Newman, aka "Handley Cross", turned 25 this spring. He traveled from Wisconsin to us eight years ago after a career in the hunter jumper world. He was easy to handle and always got along with any of the other horses. He was a friend to all, but never really cuddly close with any other horse. He wasn't known for backscratching head to tail, nor being problematic if he was left alone either. He just liked hanging out with the boys, any boys, if only some of the other horses got along with others as well as he did.
A gorgeous bay Dutch Warmblood with lots of "chrome", Newman was a real head turner. His personality was just as colorful. If you closed your eyes and blindly pointed to different characters on a page of comics, he would have matched up with almost every one. He had a goofy side, a serious side, a gentle side, a grumpy side, a scared-cat side, and yes, a very lovable side. Newman endured a number of health issues in his senior years but he was always a very good patient. He loved to lick you if you were holding him for a chiropractic treatment, but you had to be aware, he might sneak in a nip every now and then! I can actually say, he was one of the few horses that actually loved the vet. It seems he knew Dr. Maddux loved him too.
As I said, its never happened here before, but what a peaceful way to leave this earth. However, I wasn’t the only one to feel like we were somehow cheated of being able to say “goodbye” and spoil him with that final slobbery apple. His owner responded to my comment about that in yet another beautiful way. She said, “You loved him everyday”. Yes, we sure did! In closing, wouldn’t it be nice, when our time comes, if we could all just lay down in a field, the sunshine warming us on a early spring day, with no distress and just pass away peacefully.
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TANNER 1998 to 8-21-2021
In the summer of 2010, the first three horses arrived on a trailer from Wisconsin to our farm. What was supposed to be a few weeks to a month pitstop while the family settled in their new Florida home, ended up being a blessed retirement for three very deserving horses.
We all have had times when “life happens” and our plans need to change, and so it was with their family. That is how Sammy (passed away at age 33),Tanner, and Tia (now the last original retiree here on the farm), came to spend over eleven years as part of our farm family. Sadly we share that Tanner experienced his Final Sunset unexpectedly this past weekend.
Tanner was EASY, everything about him was laid back with a very carefree attitude. In the first couple of years he was here, we actually rode him some to keep him solid under saddle in hopes his owner would be able to ride him again in the future. He was a comfortable ride although a bit on the lazy side which did seem to match his personality. As time went on, he became a fixture, and Tanner’s role on the farm grew to be a very important one. He was the BEST ambassador to any new geldings we needed a friend for. He was a good kind of friend, not pushy or smothering but there to give confidence to a new horse who joined the herd. He knew his place and steered clear of the boss. I honestly don’t think I ever saw him pin his ears at another horse, kick or even threaten to bite another. He fulfilled his role here by helping many, many new retirees learn how to be turned out with another horse and acclimate to herd life. Tanner was also gentle with people, anyone could spend time getting their therapeutic brushing done on Tanner.
He did have some special dietary needs and required medication to help keep him healthy. Tanner’s owner always made sure he had what he needed and more. Her devotion to him was remarkable.
His easy going nature also could cause us humans a bit more work. Occasionally, when we would call the horses in at feeding time he wouldn’t come. Hence, a long walk out to the big pasture to encourage him along. (Those of you who have toured the farm know it is hike out to the main gelding pasture.) He was always just content out grazing and it didn’t bother him that the others had left him. He did love his food!
We are always a bit shocked when we lay a horse to rest unexpectedly. However, it is reminder that none of us are guaranteed tomorrow. The Covid epidemic has surely made our family realize this fact. Times like these are a good reminder for us to live life to enrich other's, as Tanner did, and be ready to meet the good Lord when He calls from Heaven. I can surely picture Tanner galloping across the rainbow bridge to answer THAT call home, he didn’t want to stay behind this time. Rest In Peace gentle soul.
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KILLIGREW'S "ATTRACTION" 1995 to 5-20-2021
A magnet is a powerful force that draws something to it with a force that can’t be denied. That is how one could describe “Attraction”. Rightfully named, when one laid eyes on him you were instantly mesmerized. Yes, he was drop dead gorgeous, and he exuded power and majesty . However, there was something else, a presence that can’t be described with words, that captivated those who were privileged enough to know this remarkable horse. A deep, once-in-a-lifetime experience to connect with such a magnificent animal.
For five and a half years he graced our pastures, and fully enjoyed his senior days. His best buddy was Harley, and the two knew all the best scratching spots, loved to play “halter tag”, and genuinely enjoyed each other’s company. Attraction was never a problem, with anything. He was the perfect gentleman! His only fault was grabbing the lead rope every time you went to put his halter on. It’s as if he was saying, “Let’s go!” His attitude was always bright, even in the last months when his hind legs were failing him, he aged with dignity and grace.
Foaled in Sweden, he became the speed jumping champion of that country before he was imported to the United States. He was successfully shown by a son and his mother, first as a Grand Prix jumper. He then was shown up through fourth level dressage by the mother, even mastering Piaffe and Passage at the age of seventeen.
Attraction had a heart that was clearly oversized, he proved that in everything he gave in every aspect of his life. His big dark eyes that drew one into his soul will never be forgotten. Enjoy heaven with your buddy Harley, he surely was waiting across the Rainbow Bridge.
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"HARLEY TANG" 1993 to 12-7-2020
The King is gone. Harley was a royal champion with presence that would capture everyone’s attention who visited the farm. From the exterior, he was regal steed who, upon first impression, was bold, beautiful, and reigned on high. He did LIFE big! One can only imagine what he would have been like in his prime under saddle.
In reality, Harley was a broken horse, who was rescued by a princess who taught him to love and trust again. It was a true love relationship that was beautiful to witness between a girl and her horse. She saved him, both emotionally and physically, as he was unsound for further riding. Somewhere in his past, man was not his friend, and Harley became extremely fear aggressive. Even after gracing our fields for 8 & 1/2 years he never truly got over his brokenness. We won Harley over 98%, we were buddies, he loved his face and ears rubbed and loved your attention. He just wanted it to be on his terms. There was always that 2 %, the something, or someone, that haunted him to where he couldn’t completely trust us like he did his princess.
One can learn a lot from a horse like Harley. Never give up on broken relationships, kindness will always be the best approach, and true love never gives up either. On the flip side, what can be a “wow” exterior can be a facade for some horse, or someone, who is really distrustful inside. Harley called for gentleness and a soft nature.
Harley had an 8,000 mile journey to reach his retirement home. June of 2012, he and his stablemate, Good Job, joined our farm family from Hong Kong. They both enjoyed the freedom of cantering through the pastures and grazing lazily. Harley always had “one best friend” at a time that he clung to and was often seen sleeping with his head over their back. Symphony, and Carlo had passed before him. Harley’s current buddy was Attraction. Harley was a Thoroughbred and lived a very full 27 years. He will never be forgotten, and neither will many of the lessons he helped instill in those who knew him.
In reality, Harley was a broken horse, who was rescued by a princess who taught him to love and trust again. It was a true love relationship that was beautiful to witness between a girl and her horse. She saved him, both emotionally and physically, as he was unsound for further riding. Somewhere in his past, man was not his friend, and Harley became extremely fear aggressive. Even after gracing our fields for 8 & 1/2 years he never truly got over his brokenness. We won Harley over 98%, we were buddies, he loved his face and ears rubbed and loved your attention. He just wanted it to be on his terms. There was always that 2 %, the something, or someone, that haunted him to where he couldn’t completely trust us like he did his princess.
One can learn a lot from a horse like Harley. Never give up on broken relationships, kindness will always be the best approach, and true love never gives up either. On the flip side, what can be a “wow” exterior can be a facade for some horse, or someone, who is really distrustful inside. Harley called for gentleness and a soft nature.
Harley had an 8,000 mile journey to reach his retirement home. June of 2012, he and his stablemate, Good Job, joined our farm family from Hong Kong. They both enjoyed the freedom of cantering through the pastures and grazing lazily. Harley always had “one best friend” at a time that he clung to and was often seen sleeping with his head over their back. Symphony, and Carlo had passed before him. Harley’s current buddy was Attraction. Harley was a Thoroughbred and lived a very full 27 years. He will never be forgotten, and neither will many of the lessons he helped instill in those who knew him.
Harley & Sandra
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"JERRY" 1995 to 9-21-2020
Jerry
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Winter of 2015, a black thoroughbred named Jerry, joined our farm family from Florida. He had limited vision in one eye, had anihydrosis, (which meant he didn't sweat) and he was petrified of cows. He had an infamous beg, and he was a typical TB when it came to being groomed. Everything tickled as he was thin skinned. He did love for you to caress his face and would drop his head in your lap to enjoy this. He was, at one time, a prestigious jumper in his day. Rumor has it he was intentionally blinded in one eye for insurance money. His outstanding demeanor eventually landed him at a therapeutic riding center where he served without fault. Unfortunately, this center closed and Jerry was the last horse left without a home. The vet who serviced the facility knew Jerry deserved a loving home and contacted his current owner about this amazing little horse with a big heart. She purchased him for $1 and the two of them enjoyed each other immensely. Early in 2015 he was retired here where his personality was a hit with everyone right away. He was a friend to every horse we paired him with and was especially tolerant of those who smothered him in the turnout pastures.
In January of 2020, Jerry began having episodes which were eventually diagnosed as neurological. Medication managed it fairly well until things began to worsen over the summer. Recently, at age 25, it became clear his quality of life had diminished considerably. Jerry may have had some rough times in his past, but he couldn't have ended up with any better owner than he did. Her love was without measure and we know he knew it when she visited.
Jerry was a unique individual, his crazy lip flapping, his head twisting begging, and his personality plus, will definitely be missed.
In January of 2020, Jerry began having episodes which were eventually diagnosed as neurological. Medication managed it fairly well until things began to worsen over the summer. Recently, at age 25, it became clear his quality of life had diminished considerably. Jerry may have had some rough times in his past, but he couldn't have ended up with any better owner than he did. Her love was without measure and we know he knew it when she visited.
Jerry was a unique individual, his crazy lip flapping, his head twisting begging, and his personality plus, will definitely be missed.
"ALEX" 5-23-2000 to 9-21-2020
Alex
"ALEX" was laid to rest September 21, 2020. He had been a part of our farm family for the last 3 1/2 years. Originally retired from Boston, MA, he had a great career in dressage with his loving owner. Alex was known for his naps, and his owner would spend time with him in his stall as he napped. She loved and adored him and always did the best for him. Alex was a horse unlike many others. He seemed to have a way, a wisdom, of connecting with people different than most horses. I'm not sure if it was because we spent so much time treating him for various ailments or if he was just that type of endearing soul. Of all the horses I've been around in my life, I can surely say he was profoundly unique and I have been blessed to experience such a connection with him. Alex suffered from chronic uveitis and lost one eye early on his life. He managed well until he lost the battle with his second eye more recently.
He was such a lover of attention it was hard to clean his stall with him in it. He loved to have his head rub all over you when you were trying to work around him. If you leaned into his chest he would press against himself with his jaw and chin and "hug" you back. He just wanted to be loved all the time. Alex was 20 this year, he was wonderful to work with, and beautiful to look at. We will cherish his memories.
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"DON ANGELO" 2000 to 12-4-2019
Don Angelo
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Don Angelo spent the last two years of his life with us. A gorgeous black Hanovarian dressage horse. He was born in Germany, moved to France, California, and eventually here to Kentucky. He lived to the quarter century mark, a true people horse who loved attention. An injury a few years ago slowed his body but not his spirit. His body recently grew tired and it became increasingly difficult for him to move even when his spirit was willing. He was always a bright face in the barn, and a gentleman to everyone. The love and adoration of his owner of the past 19 years, shown through his wonderful personality. He was a special horse. Don Angelo... rest in peace, beautiful soul. |
"RENAISSANCE" 1992 to 10-25-2018
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Three...Deep...Sighs...these were exhaled after the big black gelding dropped his head and licked his lips. I knew immediately, that I had just witnessed something extraordinary. He understood. A thousand miles separated them and try as she did, she couldn't make it in time for the last goodbye. I stood at arm's length and held the phone to his already fuzzy ear, giving the two their privacy. I heard no words, I only witnessed the response as she touched him deeply, as that familiar voice of 16 years spoke to his heart. I had spent a lot of time with him, especially recently, and never was I more certain that he had heard her, and accepted her final outpouring of love. The phone screen went dark, my cue their time had ended. Another of Renny's care givers stood just a few stalls away, we both looked at each other through our tears, realizing the beautiful moment we had just witnessed on an otherwise dark day. Neither of us will ever forget it. Renaissance, himself, will also be remembered well beyond that moment. The beautiful gelding graced our pastures for the last two years. He was regal, a gentleman with a big heart, and had the kindest eye that could look right through to your soul. Degenerative joint disease was his battle, one he fought with great dignity and a stoic presence. It is without a doubt he touched many on this earth and his legacy is a great one. Our deepest condolences to all who loved him.
"ZORRO" 1998 to 8-27-2018
Zorro & Caroline
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"Zorro" was an adorable little bay Swedish Warmblood who had an adorable Swedish owner; we grew quite fond of them both! Caroline and Zorro first found each other while still living in Sweden before the move to the US. They enjoyed a couple of years together here doing dressage in Boston before it became clear it was time for retirement.
Zorro was an absolute sweetheart. He loved attention and would always twist his head sideways when he begged for a treat. However, when it came to other horses he preferred his own company and would always stay just on the outside perimeter of the herd, he didn't interact much with the others but followed them along seemingly content. Luckily, he was with a group of really friendly geldings who persisted on including him. What started as someone inching their way close to him as they grazed, over time, ended up being a completely well socialized horse who would happily scratch backs with his best buddies. It took almost a whole year for him to realize that having friends was a really good thing! The last two years we could put him with anyone and he was a friend to all. It was a beautiful thing to witness as he grew in his confidence within the herd.
Sadly, his leg problems kept growing worse and there was no further way to make his days comfortable ones. His owner recently made one last visit to pour her love into the handsome bay who had given her his all. she gave him three years of lazy days in the green pasture hanging with his horse buddies and enjoying the good life. Caroline pujt his needs before her own, a selfless gift to Zorro, one that is more than admirable for a young woman and the love for her horse.
"MINKY" 1981 to 8-24-2018
Minky at age 36
August 24th was a somber day at the farm. Our oldest retiree was laid to rest this morning after suffering a neurological episode halfway through his morning breakfast. Minky turned 37 years old in April 2018 and was Christine's beloved boy for 27 years.
He had a short racing career on the QH track and won at least two races. His show career included jumping in the 3' division in hunter and equitation classes. He was a beautiful mover and honest in all that he did. He never refused a jump or tried to get out of work. In his later years, he taught Christine's young daughter to ride. It was our privilege to care for him here, he truly seemed to enjoy his retirement. He was a ladies man and took pride in taking care of his "girlfriends". First Blackjack, the Mustang, then Ellie. Minky's eyesight has been failing more recently but Ellie would be his eyes as she led him around the pasture, all the while it seemed she let him "boss" her around and maintain his dignity. His flesh may have been weakening but his spirit was as young and strong as ever. He was a favorite of the young visitors to the farm as we was always gently and loving to them as they groomed him. He spent this last week, with a sweet, curly headed little blonde boy loving on him everyday. I can just imagine he found Blackjack on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge and has his old girl all to himself again.
He had a short racing career on the QH track and won at least two races. His show career included jumping in the 3' division in hunter and equitation classes. He was a beautiful mover and honest in all that he did. He never refused a jump or tried to get out of work. In his later years, he taught Christine's young daughter to ride. It was our privilege to care for him here, he truly seemed to enjoy his retirement. He was a ladies man and took pride in taking care of his "girlfriends". First Blackjack, the Mustang, then Ellie. Minky's eyesight has been failing more recently but Ellie would be his eyes as she led him around the pasture, all the while it seemed she let him "boss" her around and maintain his dignity. His flesh may have been weakening but his spirit was as young and strong as ever. He was a favorite of the young visitors to the farm as we was always gently and loving to them as they groomed him. He spent this last week, with a sweet, curly headed little blonde boy loving on him everyday. I can just imagine he found Blackjack on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge and has his old girl all to himself again.
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"RIKA" unknown-11/21/2017
Rika
"When we decided that it was finally time for Rika to pass on, Kim and Rob were with me every step of the way, they kept me up to date on her status and comfort everyday. They reassured me that the decision was one they agreed with, and welcomed me to the farm when I wished to be present for a very difficult day. That day was difficult, to say the least, but it also brought me a lot of comfort and joy to be at the farm. It was the most beautiful fall day in Kentucky, crisp and sunny, and Rika got to enjoy it grazing in the field with her friends.
I brushed her mane and tail out and remembered all the silly little things from out life together. Not just riding on the beach and through the forest, but jumping over logs and treating sicknesses, nursing injuries, braving the cold and the heat. Braiding manes, and late night vet visits. Little nickers and lots of treats. The thing I remember most about Rika that day, is that she was just as fierce as the day I met her. A mare that knew what she wanted and told you how it was. But once you had her heart, she became fiercely loyal and took care of you no matter what.
For those years that she taught and took care of me, I owed Rika the most incredible retirement she could have received, and that is what she got with the Weber's. It brings my heart warmth to know she is buried on that hill in the beautiful place among her friends, feeding new life, exactly as she would have wanted it."
All my love,
Madeleine
"MIKEY" 1992-7/18/2017
Our "Mikey",
I remember that Friday night many years ago very clearly when My Mom arrived at the barn for her Friday night lesson. Everyone marveled at that new big black horse that was in our lesson. After the lesson was over she just had to ask about him and within minutes she had an English saddle on him and she was jumping a simple X in the middle of the arena and within 15 minutes she knew he was the one. She had never owned a horse before, even though she had ridden her entire life. She must have been waiting for the right fit and on that evening she had found it.
I watched my mom come to life with you. Most days we wondered if she loved you more than us. We joked that if you ever needed a kidney, she would give you mine. You became my Mom's favorite routine. I was jealous of the Mom and Mikey time that took place during the week, as she would say "this is her therapy and without it she would go crazy", no matter what was going on in her busy hectic life, she always found time for you! My sister and I quickly learned to love you as she did. I took my very first jump on you and you took care of me the whole way! Kristen rode you in all the fun shows and you showed her the same respect, but when it came to Mom you were a little more crazy with her, whether she was jumping, barrel racing, or your favorite-pole bending, we knew mom was safe as long as she was on you.
The 18 years that we spent by your side created some of the greatest memories, (good or bad) that all of us in our family hold dear in our hearts. When you got hurt and could no longer hide the pain from us, we were devastated. We knew that we had to give you the life that you so deserve, and return the happiness that you have given us. We know that you are living a better life at Weber's grazing, running when you can, and hanging out with your favorite buddy Zarr, that we could have ever given you. It’s still hard not being a quick drive away from you, but seeing your pictures makes it a little easier knowing that you’re being taken care of in a place that keeps you healthy.
Love you to the moon and back, Michael Michael Motorcycle.
Love, Katie
PS: I had my daughter Katie write this because I would have gone on forever writing about my Mikey – I am truly blessed to be able to care for him the way he has cared for us! I love you my Mikey more than words can say!
Love, Mom
I remember that Friday night many years ago very clearly when My Mom arrived at the barn for her Friday night lesson. Everyone marveled at that new big black horse that was in our lesson. After the lesson was over she just had to ask about him and within minutes she had an English saddle on him and she was jumping a simple X in the middle of the arena and within 15 minutes she knew he was the one. She had never owned a horse before, even though she had ridden her entire life. She must have been waiting for the right fit and on that evening she had found it.
I watched my mom come to life with you. Most days we wondered if she loved you more than us. We joked that if you ever needed a kidney, she would give you mine. You became my Mom's favorite routine. I was jealous of the Mom and Mikey time that took place during the week, as she would say "this is her therapy and without it she would go crazy", no matter what was going on in her busy hectic life, she always found time for you! My sister and I quickly learned to love you as she did. I took my very first jump on you and you took care of me the whole way! Kristen rode you in all the fun shows and you showed her the same respect, but when it came to Mom you were a little more crazy with her, whether she was jumping, barrel racing, or your favorite-pole bending, we knew mom was safe as long as she was on you.
The 18 years that we spent by your side created some of the greatest memories, (good or bad) that all of us in our family hold dear in our hearts. When you got hurt and could no longer hide the pain from us, we were devastated. We knew that we had to give you the life that you so deserve, and return the happiness that you have given us. We know that you are living a better life at Weber's grazing, running when you can, and hanging out with your favorite buddy Zarr, that we could have ever given you. It’s still hard not being a quick drive away from you, but seeing your pictures makes it a little easier knowing that you’re being taken care of in a place that keeps you healthy.
Love you to the moon and back, Michael Michael Motorcycle.
Love, Katie
PS: I had my daughter Katie write this because I would have gone on forever writing about my Mikey – I am truly blessed to be able to care for him the way he has cared for us! I love you my Mikey more than words can say!
Love, Mom
"BLACKJACK" 1984-2017
"Blackjack" – an original Spanish Mustang
Blackjack, age 31
"Blackjack" was rounded up by the BLM on Riddle Mountain, Oregon in 1987 and identified as an original Kiger bloodline mustang. Three years of age, she was purchased at a BLM sale in South Carolina in 1987 and transported back to her home in North Carolina. After reviewing the papers and seeing that she flunked out of the prison program in Wyoming and had sent two prisoners to the hospital I decided she should go under saddle training for 90 days with a young cowboy trainer that knew mustangs. While at the stable she put one stable worker in the hospital. The owner of the stable was known as the “Mustang Man” and just said good help was hard to find. Always spirited and never broken, she needed an experienced rider up until her golden years when she was used in children’s 4H. I never found her to be dangerous and she never was unkind to me. She did not tolerate attitude well and anyone who thought they were bigger and better found themselves on the ground pretty quick.
My favorite story about Blackjack was the night someone tried to steal her. They pulled a horse trailer off the road about a mile away from the barn and came in on foot. Little did they know Blackjack had never taken to the idea of loading in the death box we called a horse trailer. She was caught easily in her stall and lead easily up the dirt road to the awaiting trailer. However, the horse thieves got a surprise when they tried to load her. I found her standing in the backyard the next a.m. with two shoes torn off and a lead rope hanging off her halter. I tracked her out to the road by following two sets of cowboy boots and four hooves and found a heck of a fight scene near the tire tracks of the now missing horse trailer. Needless to say the thieves never came back.
Luckily, I always lived on plenty of land and never had the need to trailer her. However, she finally gave into that idea as well in her older days. When I bought her I made a commitment to care for her for the rest of her life. I am glad she was retired and lived the good life in Kentucky. She deserved that. Riddle Mountain, Oregon is an unforgiving wilderness and humans can be unforgiving as well with their ideas of breaking horses and how they should be tended to. Blackjack was my first horse. She has outlived parents, grandparents, a husband and a nephew, survived tornadoes and Hurricane Fran, and has only asked for a flake of hay when you come into the barn. If you listen hard enough to her nickers, she’ll tell you the stories. Blackjack was 33 years old when she experienced her Final Sunset.
My favorite story about Blackjack was the night someone tried to steal her. They pulled a horse trailer off the road about a mile away from the barn and came in on foot. Little did they know Blackjack had never taken to the idea of loading in the death box we called a horse trailer. She was caught easily in her stall and lead easily up the dirt road to the awaiting trailer. However, the horse thieves got a surprise when they tried to load her. I found her standing in the backyard the next a.m. with two shoes torn off and a lead rope hanging off her halter. I tracked her out to the road by following two sets of cowboy boots and four hooves and found a heck of a fight scene near the tire tracks of the now missing horse trailer. Needless to say the thieves never came back.
Luckily, I always lived on plenty of land and never had the need to trailer her. However, she finally gave into that idea as well in her older days. When I bought her I made a commitment to care for her for the rest of her life. I am glad she was retired and lived the good life in Kentucky. She deserved that. Riddle Mountain, Oregon is an unforgiving wilderness and humans can be unforgiving as well with their ideas of breaking horses and how they should be tended to. Blackjack was my first horse. She has outlived parents, grandparents, a husband and a nephew, survived tornadoes and Hurricane Fran, and has only asked for a flake of hay when you come into the barn. If you listen hard enough to her nickers, she’ll tell you the stories. Blackjack was 33 years old when she experienced her Final Sunset.
Blackjack, fall 2011, her kind eye and soft nicker will melt even a hardened heart!
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Blackjack & Jonni in 1987
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SYMPHONY- 3/15/1992 - 10/3/2017
Symphony
"Symphony" was born in the Netherlands, March 15, 1992. He lived there, never meeting a black fly until arriving in Massachusetts in 2000 where he found his forever family. He was happily ridden in the hunter/jumpers and equitation by two sisters, where his patience, hardworking attitude, and floppy ears were the source of many smiles and ribbons for his family. Symphony spent a few years leased out to other children, teaching them how to ride hunter courses, until a career ending injury brought him to Weber's Retired Horses. His shoes were pulled off, his mane grew long, and his dark coat became sun-bleached as he made new friends in Kentucky while rolling in the long grass. His family came to visit, thrilled to see how he remained shiny and with a sparkle in his eye, living a picturesque retired life. He was ultimately laid to rest after a likely tumor limited his ability to walk. He will forever be remembered as a sweet teddy bear of a horse, safe for anyone to be around, always ready to nibble up a carrot (but watch your fingers, his big lips would capture them!)
"Zarr" El Gazarr June 9, 1983 - June 28, 2014
“El Gazarr” was a 31 year old Arabian gelding retired from Massachusetts. He was originally foaled in California and was at one time quite a show horse. He was even the Canadian Reserve Champion in English Equitation years ago. He had a beautiful extended trot which warranted him the nickname "trotter" by his new owner, Liz, who purchased him when he was 15 in Washington State. He was a beauty to her! His previous family never sold their horses, so Liz was blessed and sort of lucky to get him. Liz turned him into a trail horse and that was quite a job! They then moved to Massachusetts in 2006. By then he was in his 20's and experiencing more lameness. Liz tried to find a barn near her more suited to Zarr’s needs. With the lameness and a recent colic, Liz decided in the spring of 2011 it was time to retire him. Zarr joined Weber’s “farm family” in June of that year. Zarr has been a joy to care for. He had some special needs to address when he arrived and needed to gain some weight. He showed improvement the very first month he was in Kentucky. His best friend was Mikey, who probably outweighed him by four hundred pounds. Zarr might have been little in size, but he thought he was the biggest in the barn! He was the boss! He was the smallest, but was always first at the gate to come in. He loved attention, particularly having his face rubbed. He captured the hearts of many visitors to the farm. Zarr passed away at age 31.
Zarr- FIRST at the gate!
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Liz & Zarr back in 2001
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"Carlo" Lee's Affilate April 7, 1989 - March 3, 2014
"Carlo" was born in Maryland on April 8, 1989 and was registered with the American Jockey Club as Lee's Affiliate. His first start on the track in 1992 was a failure and career ender. His first off-the-track owner purchased him to train as Three-Day-Eventer. She named him Land Cruiser and Carlo was his barn name. Her success with him in that sport far overshadowed his failed racing career.
At age 12, Carlo was up for sale in the Massachusetts dressage training facility where I boarded. It took me a while to realize that this beautiful tall chestnut horse was far better suited to my amateur abilities than the horse I owned at the time. While watching his training sessions I couldn’t help noticing his enthusiastic workmanlike attitude. All it took was one ride to convince me that I had to buy him and I’ll always be happy that I did. Carlo and I spent so many happy days together over the following 12 years. He was a super unflappable show horse and a great buddy. He always had a loud nicker for me when I arrived at the barn and could be a real clown at times. He was loved by two adoring women all his working life. Both his original owner and I visited him in retirement at Weber's and were delighted with his apparent happiness roaming the beautiful hills of Kentucky and with the care he received from the Weber's.
Carlo was known by everyone who spent any time with him as a true gentleman and wonderful horse. He is remembered and he is missed.
At age 12, Carlo was up for sale in the Massachusetts dressage training facility where I boarded. It took me a while to realize that this beautiful tall chestnut horse was far better suited to my amateur abilities than the horse I owned at the time. While watching his training sessions I couldn’t help noticing his enthusiastic workmanlike attitude. All it took was one ride to convince me that I had to buy him and I’ll always be happy that I did. Carlo and I spent so many happy days together over the following 12 years. He was a super unflappable show horse and a great buddy. He always had a loud nicker for me when I arrived at the barn and could be a real clown at times. He was loved by two adoring women all his working life. Both his original owner and I visited him in retirement at Weber's and were delighted with his apparent happiness roaming the beautiful hills of Kentucky and with the care he received from the Weber's.
Carlo was known by everyone who spent any time with him as a true gentleman and wonderful horse. He is remembered and he is missed.
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Carlo
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"Chewy" Right Hand Man 1988-2014
When I first bought Chewy, his previous owner told me that he had a double cowlick in the center of his star. She told me that a double “swirl” was an indicator of a spiritual, special horse in the Native American world. The horses with this attribute were saved for the medicine men because these horses were said to be “closer to God”. Now, this is a great story and I have no idea if it is true or not, but as far as I am concerned it couldn’t be more accurate.
As the story goes, Chewy was found in someone’s backyard by a trainer who bought him because of his calm demeanor. He was named “Right Hand Man” or Chewbacca for short which was such a fitting name, that I never changed it after I bought him. He was a terrific partner and quite a showman as he took me to many Champion wins as a great Hunter.
As I would change barns and meet many new people, our transitions took us to many barns and many shows. We would go to these new, strange places and there would be people there who knew Chewy. He was way more popular than me and it turned out that he had been a dedicated school horse to many. As I owned him, I would receive pictures of people on Chewy, always having great memories and always consisting of a rider with a ribbon and a big smile on their face.
He brought happiness to many, and he gave me that and so much more. He was my loyal partner and gave me a break from my hectic life and a renewed feeling of passion for competition. My three kids were his sidekick and each of them have wonderful memories. My oldest, David, won a carrot race with him as Chewy would chase anyone with a carrot…don’t tell David, but to this day he thinks it was because he was Chewy’ s favorite. Sam won many Halloween costume contests with Chewy, one year as Han Solo and the real Chewbacca and one year as Batman and Robin. And Chewy was Emma’s first ride at age 24 months. He instilled the love of horses and riding that continues still today for her.
So we said good-bye to Chewy’s double “swirl”, but we feel his soul everyday. We hug our other horses as much as we can and we pray that Chewy’s wisdom and kindness helps us to be the best horse owners we can be. Chewy’s spirit and influence is bigger than ever now.
I am forever grateful that Chewy had the most beautiful retirement possible, where he was loved and cared for every single day. It was the toughest and best decision to send Chewy to the Weber’s and I am at peace knowing he was with Kim and Rob when he passed.
As the story goes, Chewy was found in someone’s backyard by a trainer who bought him because of his calm demeanor. He was named “Right Hand Man” or Chewbacca for short which was such a fitting name, that I never changed it after I bought him. He was a terrific partner and quite a showman as he took me to many Champion wins as a great Hunter.
As I would change barns and meet many new people, our transitions took us to many barns and many shows. We would go to these new, strange places and there would be people there who knew Chewy. He was way more popular than me and it turned out that he had been a dedicated school horse to many. As I owned him, I would receive pictures of people on Chewy, always having great memories and always consisting of a rider with a ribbon and a big smile on their face.
He brought happiness to many, and he gave me that and so much more. He was my loyal partner and gave me a break from my hectic life and a renewed feeling of passion for competition. My three kids were his sidekick and each of them have wonderful memories. My oldest, David, won a carrot race with him as Chewy would chase anyone with a carrot…don’t tell David, but to this day he thinks it was because he was Chewy’ s favorite. Sam won many Halloween costume contests with Chewy, one year as Han Solo and the real Chewbacca and one year as Batman and Robin. And Chewy was Emma’s first ride at age 24 months. He instilled the love of horses and riding that continues still today for her.
So we said good-bye to Chewy’s double “swirl”, but we feel his soul everyday. We hug our other horses as much as we can and we pray that Chewy’s wisdom and kindness helps us to be the best horse owners we can be. Chewy’s spirit and influence is bigger than ever now.
I am forever grateful that Chewy had the most beautiful retirement possible, where he was loved and cared for every single day. It was the toughest and best decision to send Chewy to the Weber’s and I am at peace knowing he was with Kim and Rob when he passed.
Emma & Chewy
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Lauren & Chewy
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Sam & Chewy
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"Teddy" RM Cloud Nine May 11, 2002 - June 28, 2013
Roberta & Teddy
Teddy was my first horse, and the horse of a lifetime. He was a red dun Appendix Quarter Horse with a big blaze, four socks, and big, expressive brown eyes. A descendant of Triple Crown winner War Admiral on his Thoroughbred side, he had the heart of a champion coupled with a willing, generous spirit. From his Quarter Horse side, he had an abundance of sweetness, gentleness, and intelligence. And he had an impish sense of humor that was all his own and expressed daily. He was very affectionate and had great love for people in general but he especially cherished little children, taking great care of little girls taking “pony rides” and little hands giving him treats or petting him. He had many horse pals around the barn (especially my friend Sharon’s Rygel who succumbed to colic in March 2012), but wanted very badly to befriend the dogs that accompanied their owners to Green Pastures. I am glad that in his last two months he finally achieved his ambition of having a doggy friend in the Webers’ Ranger.
Teddy was a happy horse and a lot of fun to be around. He was very responsive, and remembered pretty much everything I taught him. When I first had him, I was still recovering from a badly broken ankle and used to mount and dismount from a picnic table. He quickly learned to line himself up to the picnic table, and extended the concept to other suitable high flat surfaces. He also learned to “come” on command, do carrot stretches and drink water from a hose. And he had a quirky sense of humor. One day, I had my back to him while I conversed with a barn friend. Not getting my attention by pawing, he nudged my back and then firmly but carefully grabbed the back of my shirt and pulled me, as if to say, “pay attention to ME.” My husband says everyone is entitled to one vice, and pawing was Teddy’s. He’d start with his left front, I’d tell him to “put that foot DOWN”, and then he’d very tentatively pick up his right front with an expression of “well, ok, what about THIS one?” and of course I’d have to laugh.
He was a wonderful first horse, always taking care of me. We had so many good times both riding and just spending quality time. There are many happy moments I will always treasure: many deeply satisfying rides, watching him galloping freely around his paddock, his love affair with grand-daughter Miranda, his attachment to my friend Joanie’s son, our walks around Green Pastures and later Franklin Equine, his many endearing behaviors, and our very last ride, a quiet, happy hack around Green Pastures with Karen McKean and her beautiful Umberto. During the five years I had with him, I learned about the profound connection a person can have with a horse, the joy of the incredible total connection when the reins feel like an electric silken thread of instantaneous communication, the beauty of lightness when it feels like the horse’s feet are barely skimming the ground, the miracle of being able to read each other’s mind and intention. Teddy also taught me about what’s important in life: perseverance, focusing on the immediacy and beauty of the moment, grace, bravery, heart, and above all, love and trust. And he brought many wonderful new friends into my life.
Teddy was diagnosed with navicular syndrome in March 2012. Initially, he responded to injections to his bursae. But an MRI in July 2012 found extensive tendon damage and I immediately retired him. Initially, he went to live at his veterinarian’s facility, but he was bored and lonely. I was thrilled to find Webers Retired Horses, and I hoped that he would have many years of happy retirement, just being a horse and enjoying horse heaven on earth. Sadly, this was not to be. The ravages of the navicular syndrome proved too much for my gallant, beautiful boy. As Gretchen Jackson said upon Barbaro’s death, grief is the price we pay for love. So while I will always carry the grief of Teddy’s illness and of having to make the decision that I had to let him go, I am still grateful that I had the opportunity to spend five years with this special horse. I will miss him and carry him in my heart always.
Teddy was a happy horse and a lot of fun to be around. He was very responsive, and remembered pretty much everything I taught him. When I first had him, I was still recovering from a badly broken ankle and used to mount and dismount from a picnic table. He quickly learned to line himself up to the picnic table, and extended the concept to other suitable high flat surfaces. He also learned to “come” on command, do carrot stretches and drink water from a hose. And he had a quirky sense of humor. One day, I had my back to him while I conversed with a barn friend. Not getting my attention by pawing, he nudged my back and then firmly but carefully grabbed the back of my shirt and pulled me, as if to say, “pay attention to ME.” My husband says everyone is entitled to one vice, and pawing was Teddy’s. He’d start with his left front, I’d tell him to “put that foot DOWN”, and then he’d very tentatively pick up his right front with an expression of “well, ok, what about THIS one?” and of course I’d have to laugh.
He was a wonderful first horse, always taking care of me. We had so many good times both riding and just spending quality time. There are many happy moments I will always treasure: many deeply satisfying rides, watching him galloping freely around his paddock, his love affair with grand-daughter Miranda, his attachment to my friend Joanie’s son, our walks around Green Pastures and later Franklin Equine, his many endearing behaviors, and our very last ride, a quiet, happy hack around Green Pastures with Karen McKean and her beautiful Umberto. During the five years I had with him, I learned about the profound connection a person can have with a horse, the joy of the incredible total connection when the reins feel like an electric silken thread of instantaneous communication, the beauty of lightness when it feels like the horse’s feet are barely skimming the ground, the miracle of being able to read each other’s mind and intention. Teddy also taught me about what’s important in life: perseverance, focusing on the immediacy and beauty of the moment, grace, bravery, heart, and above all, love and trust. And he brought many wonderful new friends into my life.
Teddy was diagnosed with navicular syndrome in March 2012. Initially, he responded to injections to his bursae. But an MRI in July 2012 found extensive tendon damage and I immediately retired him. Initially, he went to live at his veterinarian’s facility, but he was bored and lonely. I was thrilled to find Webers Retired Horses, and I hoped that he would have many years of happy retirement, just being a horse and enjoying horse heaven on earth. Sadly, this was not to be. The ravages of the navicular syndrome proved too much for my gallant, beautiful boy. As Gretchen Jackson said upon Barbaro’s death, grief is the price we pay for love. So while I will always carry the grief of Teddy’s illness and of having to make the decision that I had to let him go, I am still grateful that I had the opportunity to spend five years with this special horse. I will miss him and carry him in my heart always.
Teddy taking care of the grandchildren.
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Teddy & Zarr grazing in the front pasture.
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"Sonny" Smoky Winter 1983-2013
Sonny & Crystal
Sonny will probably remain the gold standard to which all other horses should be
measured in my eyes. He has been a part of the Weber Farm Family for about 23
years. He has belonged to three families in that time frame, the Krota's, the
Mahon's, and ours, and has given everything he had to give to all of us. He was a true all around horse and would do his best of whatever was asked of him, showmanship, horsemanship, western pleasure, english pleasure, trail, and even some reining. He won numerous daily and year end high point awards for several show circuits with different riders. He loved water, whether it was two
little girls riding him bareback, double, into the pond, or his trademark drink from the hose as he got his bath before a show.
Sonny became one of the most rock-solid, trustworthy mounts anyone could ride. He was a true babysitter. Not one of those horses who was safe but hard to get to do anything at all. Sonny always did what was asked of him and you only had to ask gently, he aimed to please! He didn't take advantage of novice riders as most horses do. Many, many riders cantered for the first time on Sonny as he was so steady.
Sonny was completely blind in his left eye for about the last 10 years of his
life, you would never now it by his behavior, he trusted the people and horses
in his life to watch his blindside for him. Joe was his best buddy the last
couple of years of his life. Joe always remained on Sonny's right side so he was
always in sight of him. These two passed away both at the age of 30, about six
months apart and are buried side by side, and I bet you can just guess which
side Joe is on....You were the best Sonny!
measured in my eyes. He has been a part of the Weber Farm Family for about 23
years. He has belonged to three families in that time frame, the Krota's, the
Mahon's, and ours, and has given everything he had to give to all of us. He was a true all around horse and would do his best of whatever was asked of him, showmanship, horsemanship, western pleasure, english pleasure, trail, and even some reining. He won numerous daily and year end high point awards for several show circuits with different riders. He loved water, whether it was two
little girls riding him bareback, double, into the pond, or his trademark drink from the hose as he got his bath before a show.
Sonny became one of the most rock-solid, trustworthy mounts anyone could ride. He was a true babysitter. Not one of those horses who was safe but hard to get to do anything at all. Sonny always did what was asked of him and you only had to ask gently, he aimed to please! He didn't take advantage of novice riders as most horses do. Many, many riders cantered for the first time on Sonny as he was so steady.
Sonny was completely blind in his left eye for about the last 10 years of his
life, you would never now it by his behavior, he trusted the people and horses
in his life to watch his blindside for him. Joe was his best buddy the last
couple of years of his life. Joe always remained on Sonny's right side so he was
always in sight of him. These two passed away both at the age of 30, about six
months apart and are buried side by side, and I bet you can just guess which
side Joe is on....You were the best Sonny!
Montana "JOE" 1982-2012
Joe at age 30.
Joe was a horse that was a fiery spirit in his youth. He mellowed enough to let my sons ride him safely as he aged, but he always had an air about him...he was a "look at me" type of horse.He was my first horse who taught me so much, took me to hunter shows, traveled many trails with me, but most importantly, taught me real horse/human partnership.The lessons of patience and observance have served me well, not only in my horse life, but with parenting, teaching and relationships as a whole .We all just want to be heard and validated...appreciated and valued for who we are, horse or human.Thank you Joe for validating me in my of path of horsemanship, that at the time I met you, was not the norm.You showed me that what I felt about something, was just as important as the task itself.You are loved and missed by many.
JOE at age 10.
"Logan" Invest Your Socks May 3, 1998 - March 19, 2012
Logan was a special gelding who loved everyone. He was always happy to see you and LOVED attention! He was a very steady horse to ride, and was perfect for an inexperienced rider to learn on. He had a sweet little jog you could just ride all day long. His personaiity was at the top of the chart! Loving, kind, and genuine. He was also a very patient horse. Logan was a people pleaser and would do whatever was asked of him. He brought joy to those who shared his life, and memories of him will always be special to those who loved him.
"Blackjack" 1978 - 2011
Blackjack
We moved Blackjack to Webers in September of 2010. Blackjack was 33 years old and we knew that the coming winter in llinois was going to be as harsh as ever. We always worried as fall approached as we always thought it would be too much for our 'Old Man'. Blackjack survived myriad illnesses and the last one in February 2010 we really thought he was not going to survive. But he did and even gained all his weight back even with only half of his teeth. He was a happy, gentle horse and he obviously had some more life in him. We only wanted him to be comfortable and happy for the remainder of his life, however long that was going to be.
In July 2010 my friend Jill told me about Webers and that she was taking her old guy, Joe, down to Kentucky to be with Kim and Rob.
I thought this would be a great idea for Blackjack but was unsure about having him so far away let alone make the trailer ride several hundred miles to Kentucky. After speaking with Kim many times about Blackjack and his special needs; beet pulp with medications twice daily and no hay diet and his hind end weakness, Kim assured me that he represented nothing out of the ordinary for her and Rob. They had their own horse who had the same dietary requirements. She assured me that they would look after him with the same care and tenderness as their own horse and those of the other clients. That was it...The vet cleared him for the ride down to Kentucky and off we went in September. Upon arriving to Webers I knew we were truly in horse heaven. We were greeted warmly by Kim and Rob. The horses were unloaded and Blackjack immediately settled in, as if he know he was home. It was going to be the last place on earth that he would live and we were perfect with that decision. Kim and I talked often about Blackjack; she was always available to take my calls, call to inform me of his well-being, to answer my questions and to post pictures.
Blackjack passed peacefully the first week in March 2011. The day before, Kim told me he was happily grazing and came in for the night as if it was any other night. The following morning Kim called to tell me that he was down in his stall and he was peaceful; still alive but resolved to go. She and Rob tried to get him up but he simply did not want to. She put the phone up to Blackjack's ear and allowed me to speak with him. His ears moved. Kim said he heard me. The vet was already there and put him peacefully to sleep thereafter. Blackjack is buried on Webers Farm. He has an apple tree planted on top.
THANK YOU Kim and Rob for caring and for loving Blackjack until his last day.
Amy
In July 2010 my friend Jill told me about Webers and that she was taking her old guy, Joe, down to Kentucky to be with Kim and Rob.
I thought this would be a great idea for Blackjack but was unsure about having him so far away let alone make the trailer ride several hundred miles to Kentucky. After speaking with Kim many times about Blackjack and his special needs; beet pulp with medications twice daily and no hay diet and his hind end weakness, Kim assured me that he represented nothing out of the ordinary for her and Rob. They had their own horse who had the same dietary requirements. She assured me that they would look after him with the same care and tenderness as their own horse and those of the other clients. That was it...The vet cleared him for the ride down to Kentucky and off we went in September. Upon arriving to Webers I knew we were truly in horse heaven. We were greeted warmly by Kim and Rob. The horses were unloaded and Blackjack immediately settled in, as if he know he was home. It was going to be the last place on earth that he would live and we were perfect with that decision. Kim and I talked often about Blackjack; she was always available to take my calls, call to inform me of his well-being, to answer my questions and to post pictures.
Blackjack passed peacefully the first week in March 2011. The day before, Kim told me he was happily grazing and came in for the night as if it was any other night. The following morning Kim called to tell me that he was down in his stall and he was peaceful; still alive but resolved to go. She and Rob tried to get him up but he simply did not want to. She put the phone up to Blackjack's ear and allowed me to speak with him. His ears moved. Kim said he heard me. The vet was already there and put him peacefully to sleep thereafter. Blackjack is buried on Webers Farm. He has an apple tree planted on top.
THANK YOU Kim and Rob for caring and for loving Blackjack until his last day.
Amy
"Sandy" Ann's Sandy Sue 1980 - 2011
Bob and his girl Sandy
What a sweet horse she was. Her heart was big and those soft brown eyes could bring out the best of anyone. She was patient and kind and just a great horse to be around. Sandy had the special task of taking care of kids who needed extra patience and she was perfect for them. It's like she instinctively knew about their special needs.
She was the only horse I have ever seen who would practically bridle herself. If you held the bit anywhere close to her mouth she would reach right out and put it in her mouth. It's like she said, "I'm ready! Let's go ride!" She is just one wonderful horse I can't say enough about. We love you Sandy Girl!
She was the only horse I have ever seen who would practically bridle herself. If you held the bit anywhere close to her mouth she would reach right out and put it in her mouth. It's like she said, "I'm ready! Let's go ride!" She is just one wonderful horse I can't say enough about. We love you Sandy Girl!
"Sammy" Sammy Cando May 5, 1977 - November 21, 2010
Carol & Sammy
Sammy was the kindest horse I know. And he was my best friend. Bred at Texas A&M University, he was a working cow horse and stud. Then he became a show horse.
When I met him he was standing alone in a dark, smelly stall at the back of a school barn. He was for sale because he was “uncooperative”. I was taking lessons and accidentally saddled him up. “You don’t want to ride HIM – he’s no good” they said. Well I DID ride him, and eventually bought him for $500. He was 24 but I didn’t care. I got to see the life slowly return to his eyes. At the next barn clinic a trainer rode him. Everyone watched in amazement as Sammy did spins, sliding stops and roll backs. You should have seen the open mouths of those people who said he was useless. It was pretty funny.
Everything I know about horses I learned from Sammy. He never acted up when I had no idea what I was doing. He was so honest and had such a great work ethic. I trusted him and I know he trusted me with his life.
I remember those hard days after he had colic surgery. I would sit in the doorway of his stall in ICU and he’d walk over and, drop his head into my lap and fall asleep. He was old but pulled through those surgeries to the amazement of all of us. And he and I kept riding. The happiest hours of my life were spent with him.
He died at 33. Stoic and calm and majestic. Rest in peace Sammy old man. You deserve it.
When I met him he was standing alone in a dark, smelly stall at the back of a school barn. He was for sale because he was “uncooperative”. I was taking lessons and accidentally saddled him up. “You don’t want to ride HIM – he’s no good” they said. Well I DID ride him, and eventually bought him for $500. He was 24 but I didn’t care. I got to see the life slowly return to his eyes. At the next barn clinic a trainer rode him. Everyone watched in amazement as Sammy did spins, sliding stops and roll backs. You should have seen the open mouths of those people who said he was useless. It was pretty funny.
Everything I know about horses I learned from Sammy. He never acted up when I had no idea what I was doing. He was so honest and had such a great work ethic. I trusted him and I know he trusted me with his life.
I remember those hard days after he had colic surgery. I would sit in the doorway of his stall in ICU and he’d walk over and, drop his head into my lap and fall asleep. He was old but pulled through those surgeries to the amazement of all of us. And he and I kept riding. The happiest hours of my life were spent with him.
He died at 33. Stoic and calm and majestic. Rest in peace Sammy old man. You deserve it.
"DOC" Doc's Soft Fellow 1986-2007
Doc was one very special horse. It took years to find him, you know, the kind that took care of your little girl no matter what. He had patience beyond belief and would tolerate whatever Emily wanted to do with him. Maybe it was hours of hair braiding, or swimming bareback in the pond, going to horse shows, or just hanging out on him bareback with friends. He was one of the best horse's a parent could ever ask for. He was one-of-a-kind and is greatly missed.
EMILY & DOC
EMILY & DOC
Emily & Doc