Chief Skydog,
I wrote this for you during our last days together...
He galloped into my
life,
this steed of white and sorrel!!!
A real Indian paint
named Red Chief Geronimo!
He galloped into my life,
needing stall and me and saddle!
A real Indian paint
requires intense discovery!
He galloped into my life,
this horse of Indian lore.
A real Indian paint
leading me to cowgirl glory!
Breathing strained, we
now walk
Time well spent - born is trust.
Oh, so thankful that our paths have crossed
Now we are one and not alone!
On Tuesday, February 6,
2007, hopefully said to be done out of kindness, I had my Buddy, Chief Skydog, euthanized. He is buried on a hillside in a horse pasture within
Tanglewood.
I am in a horrible state of grief. When I can return to the barn,
I will know that I am alright. Just don't know who I am without my
boy!
Thank you for being so special.
You were so good for me. You made me happy. I felt so safe. Known for your
'laid back' personality. We could have gone anywhere - you walked right up
the trailer plank! We used the 'bitless bridle' to ease your mouth from my
unorthodox holding of your reins. Gave you treats along the way. I allowed
you to graze every now and then. Made a few fellers get loud about
that.
I'd always wanted to go
swimming with you. The closest that we got was the time that we followed
Austin (dog) into the river. Well, I decided not to get wet, so I just gracefully
rolled off of you and on to the bank! We were the talk of the
barn!
Our barn manager had his
birthday celebrated by us. The night before, I wrote 'Happy Birthday, Tom'
on your lovely, white rump in ruby red lipstick. He says it took him awhile,
but he did notice!!!
On a trip to Blowing Rock,
I felt the beginnings of your demise. The last hour of our four hour ride
toward the barn, I noticed that your feet were sore. I got off and walked
beside you. At one point you took off. Others panicked that you would run
away! I knew. A couple of our friends went to find you. Meanwhile, I called
out your name. Friends affirm that you heard my voice and came to a complete
stop. They were with you when I caught up! You were so faithful.
I heard sounds of strained
breathing. Had to convince our vet that this was not right. Scope confirmed
blockage in your guttural pouch. After three State clinics, I had to be the
one to decide about your life ending. I have documented every step and telephone
call that I made to get you on a wellness trail! But I have found that horses
do not get people treatment, even when I thought it would be so simple of
a treatment.
I just pray:
You'll not want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please let me go.
Do not grieve that it should be you who has to decide this thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years.
Don't let your heart hold any tears.
Excerpt from "If It Should Be"
(Author Unknown)
I love you, Skydog.