06/11/2024
We said goodbye to Sammy last week. Sammy was a firm favourite, loved by all for his beautiful, gentle nature , and his wicked sense of humour. He was a Welsh Cob who came to us 5 years ago, spending his days either in the herd field or with his pair bond partner Ollie. (Who he was very patient with!) Sometimes compared to Eeyore for being a steady chap with his head down most times, he had many fooled!! Sammy could spring into action at the drop of a hat, leaping bucking and farting across the field, sending his hooves whistling past my ears many a time. He knew exactly what he was doing! He would also quickly discover which fences weren't electric, and could sometimes be found eating apples from the tree on the wrong side of the fence, or leaning (pushing) over a post and rail with his face in a blackberry bush. In his hey day, Sammy was a treasured family horse who hunted, hacked, and competed, bringing much joy to his wonderful owners. He loved his ridden job and had great enthusiasm for jumping, up to 120cm!
Sammys age had brought several health issues, which we were able to manage. However, after a difficult winter last year, I spoke to his owners to discuss getting him well enough to enjoy one last summer in the herd field. Sammys owners were always so supportive of any care he needed, and so we made a plan to say goodbye, quietly on a good day with his friends in the herd field.
It is always our pleasure to care for these horses. In a strange way, it's our pleasure to say goodbye too, knowing they have had the best possible last year's with all the friends freedom and care they deserved. I wish every horse were so lucky.
Coming home to a big bunch of flowers from Sammys owners was a wonderful surprise. Sometimes, this can be a very tough job, and this token of appreciation and sympathy was very touching ❤️
We miss him madly, but the memories he left behind are treasured. It was his time x