Nevermore.
One of the reasons that I have been so quiet lately is Raven. For the past two months she has been fighting a losing battle with DSLD, and last week it became clear that she could struggle no longer. Kerstin euthanized her on Saturday morning, and she died peacefully eating an apple out of my hand. I got one one last kiss between her double whorls before her knees buckled.
Raven got to know Kerstin well during her treatment for that stupid (fucking) puncture wound, so she was completely relaxed for the final injections. Such a good girlie, as I told her many times. There is a big black hole out in the paddock now, but some friends have loaned us their two horses for a while to keep Tonka company. I have to admit that I find their presence comforting too.
The first picture was taken on September 11th 2008, two months before the stupid (fucking) puncture wound. Raven was at her healthiest and we were getting ready for some galloping along the dikes. The second picture was taken on April 2nd 2008, a week after she arrived at Farcical Farm. Back then she was skinny and scared, rarely looking directly at me and never approaching of her own free will. The last picture was taken on May 3rd 2009, at the beginning of what turned out to be the end. I am not a spiritual person, but as of July 4th 2009 I like to think that she on the moors and beneath the stars in her king's wild company.
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7 hours ago
15 comments:
I don't think I've commented before but I've been reading your blog for about a year. I'm so sorry to hear about Raven. I can only imagine the size of the hole she's left at Farcical Farm.
I'm so sorry to hear about Raven :( I don't usually comment but I've read your blog from start to finish and have been following you for quite a while. It's such a huge pity about Raven. I can only imagine how you must be feeling about having made the decision to put her to sleep. Her absence must leave an enormous gap.
I'm sorry to hear about Raven. This must be devastating for you. She was a special girl and knew how much you all loved her. And though she will be missed she is now pain free and running through meadows and drinking from clear mountain streams and I'm sure she is with a herd of friends she's known in the past. Give Tonka a hug from me.
Oh dear! My deepest sympathies go out to you and Tonka and David. You gave Raven a good final year, doing all in your power, I know, to make her feel comfortable, and, more importantly, loved.
She now runs, pain-free, in green pastures. Hopefully, she'll give Corky a little nicker for me.
Wow Sarah I am so sorry. My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family.
Give Tonka a hug from me too.
I'm so very sorry for your loss; I've enjoyed reading about Raven, and your love for her comes through in your writing.
I envision her running free in green pastures, pain free, strong and beautiful.
Take care of yourselves as you grieve her loss.
Jean
Oh dp. I’m so very sorry to hear about Raven. I have been wondering about her. The before and after photos clearly show how she was thriving at your farm - no horse could have had better care.
All horses deserve a life free from pain and a dignified end, but many people don’t have the courage to give them that – because it’s really really hard. You did the last kind and loving thing you could for her. You have my sympathy, but also my respect and admiration.
And a big, warm hug.
I'm so sorry dp. (((HUGS)))
I'm so sorry.
You did the kindest thing at the end, which is the hardest thing for the folks left behind.
I'm handing over a virtual carrot for everyone now, and two extra carrots for YOU. Eat them, and know that she isn't in pain anymore.
I am so sorry for your loss. I've been following the blog for quite a while. She was a really lovely girl and I'm so glad that she had her last years in such a lovely place with a family that loves her!
Oh, Sarah, I'm shocked, sad, and so very sorry! I remember the day you posted about the puncture wound, but never dreamed it would end up causing you to lose your beautiful Raven. I can only hope that, with time, you will find comfort in the good life that you gave her, and in the fact that she was relaxed and happy in her final moments.
just wanted to leave a comment that I am so sad for your loss... saying goodbye to a beloved one (animal or otherwise) is so very hard... you are in my prayers....
I'm so sorry Sarah. I know you'd never do anything for an animal but your best, and I know you'd never do anything to make them suffer. As hard a loss as it is, Raven was very lucky to have you whilst she did. And you her.
TFL
Without too words, just sending some Wa mare's nickers along in sorrow and joy too..for Raven was so well loved there and is able to run wild now and be free of all pain~
She will be deeply missed
Take care sweet~
I've been so ill myself this last month, I'm a bit behind in my posts...
HUGE HUGS to you and all at the Farm! You did NOTHING BUT RIGHT by your beautiful girl every single day she was in your lives.
I will grieve her memory as well, she was a feisty, beautiful friend.
The fates have turned, but will turn again. All we can do is be ready to do our best.
I will donate in her memory to one of the horsie charities I support.
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