09/08/2026
And then there were two…..
We are leaning into supporting the final Sanctuary residents residing on the property, Toad and Spirit. In return, they fill the space of emptiness from those we have said “farewell” to.
For these final beloved residents we have had to make the decision of more finality than others, and despite the difficulty in coming to this conclusion, we know that it is for the best for them.
As discussed in a previous post this past Spring, Spirit has been challenged with mobility issues and had a couple of concerning instances in which she struggled to get up during cold weather. This is a progressive issue lent to the reality of her advanced age of approximately 29 year old. She is also a very anxious horse, that has difficulty finding balance within herself when her sense of security is off. These truths combine to the feeling that humane euthanasia is the best decision for her, rather than transitioning to an unfamiliar place.
Similarly, physical and psychological/emotional individual challenges are also what have led us to making this very hard decision for Toad as well.
Toad suffers from Ringbone, which is essentially arthritis in her pastern (“ankle” for lack of a better description). This has been managed with some challenge via anti-inflammatory medications, proper pasture turn out, diet and supportive bodywork modalities. It has been a matter of constant care and consideration to manage a condition that is chronic. In addition to the physical, the transition to the Sanctuary itself initially was not the greatest, although necessary to remove her from the circumstances she was previously in. The move was traumatic, having been in her previous home over 20+ years, with her mother at her side always, and also a very challenging trailer loading experience. Although taxing, Toad settled in beautifully here eventually, with careful considerations of her psychological and emotional state and support.
And so, we come to our conclusion to release Toad from her physical discomfort, and save her from the trauma of another move. To let her go with her pal by her side, in a place where she has found the peace, compassion and quality care that she deserves.
The reality is that we would be facing the decision of this nature for both of these two sweet mares in the near future, regardless of our current circumstances. They will leave their Earthly bodies in a familiar place, where they feel safe, and surrounded by those that love them. An honoring that befits our commitment to them.
