Matteo... X

[pixie374]

I wouldn't usually post this, but I've been given 2 full glasess of wine....

I have had to have my 38 year old pony PTS today. I have had him since I was 13 and he was 5... as a a rescue. He started off as a total hooligan, as he hadn't been shown much love- and all my immediate family have the scars to prove it...

He was still winning jumping competitions just a few years ago, and I retired him abour 3 years ago, except for about 10 minutes, 2 or 3 times a week, for my granddaughter to ride. He was so gentle and loving. My 4 year old granddaughter still sometimes gives him polos wrongly, between her fingers, and he always uses his lips and not his teeth to take it from her, so he doesn't hurt her.

He has been a constant through some awful times, and my other horse is trotting around the field whinnying and looking for him.

Unfortunately, we could see he was starting to show his age- and this morning, he decided not to get up for breakfast or to go in the field. The vet said to check and ring back.... and he still didn't want to move, so he has now awfully, been shot in his stable.

RIP Matty, thank you.... we won't forget you xxxx

[AuntPollyGrey]

pixie, your pony had had a very privileged life -nearly 30 years in the same loving home and almost as good as 'dying' in his sleep. If it's any consolation he would not be aware of what was happening as the vets these days give a sedative before they put the horse down. It's a pity your other horse did not have chance to say goodbye, but can I suggest you bring him into the stable where your pony was put down and let him smell around, and stay for a while -he will know -believe me they know more than we credit them for. Have another glass of wine and celebrate your lovely pony's life x

[andy-hughes]

xx

A.

[windywillow]

So sorry to read this sad news. RIP Matty. x

[pixie374]

Thank you so much for all your kindness, it's very appreciated xx
I will try that tomorrow, apg, thank you. My sister has taken care of him for tonight. I went with her, but I wasn't very helpful... xx

[waterboatman]

So sorry to see that pix. A great loss of a great friend for you.
Thinking of you poppet xxx

[Theland]

That brought a tear to my eye Pixie.
So awfully sorry for you. X

[piggynose]

RIP Matteo.

[piggynose]

I wasnt aware that ponies could live so long. If you dont mind me asking whats the life expentancy of a pony?

[jennyjoan]

sorry to hear this Pixie. We all dread this day for all our animals

[AuntPollyGrey]

// I wasnt aware that ponies could live so long. If you dont mind me asking whats the life expectancy of a pony?//

Its a really good age for a pony and the smaller ones tend to live longer than larger horses. It also depends what sort of life they have and any underlying conditions. I think more horses are put down due to chronic pain than actually die naturally in the field.

[pixie374]

Apg, we took your advice this morning- he does seem more settled now at least x
And thank you, all of you xx

[gness]

So sorry to read this, Pixie but pleased that you and Matty had happy times together... he was a lucky pony to find you.....x

[pixie374]

Thank you, gness xx

[AuntPollyGrey]

// Apg, we took your advice this morning- he does seem more settled now at least x //
Oh I'm so pleased about that, he will know what has happened now. x

I am 'waiting for the day' (you will know what I mean) with one of mine, and I know it will break my heart when that day comes.

[pixie374]

Ohhh dear :-(.... yes. Thank you all for all your help xx

[Canary42]

A companion from the age of 13 - no wonder you're upset.

How heartbreaking.

[pixie374]

Thank you, canary xx