Difficult decisions

WE ran a news story last week on the welfare issue of owners leaving it too late to have horses put down, as highlighted by vets and charities. Whether with the best intentions, or due to costs, some owners do avoid the decision, to the detriment of the horse.

This dilemma was made real for me last week as I had to make the call for my first horse, Tally — a sweet, beautiful, impeccably mannered Irish thoroughbred I’d owned for 21 years, enjoying Pony Club, eventing (badly) and dressage (a little better). Retired long ago, she injured a suspensory 18 months ago that was getting worse and was never going to get better.

She has had a happy summer and was looking fantastic for her age. I made the choice to say goodbye now in peaceful circumstances — rather than following a frantic call from the yard one snowy night when I wasn’t around.

“Better a day too soon than a day too late,” my vet advised. And the vet’s is the only advice I would listen to.

She understands both my horse and my circumstances. You see people asking on forums and debating with friends. It is the vet, or charities, who offer sound advice. Decision made, the professionals were outstanding, compassionate and respectful of this wonderful mare.

I miss her.

We wish all competitors the best of luck at Horse of the Year Show with their own pride and joys, including H&H showing editor Alex Robinson, who is competing her lovely Fell. I and members of the editorial team will be on the H&H trade stand and would love to see readers who can pop by. Sarah Jenkins Editor-in-Chief