He wasn't even my horse but I have had an awful day trying to help my French friend Martine save her 22 year old Appaloosa from colic - we spent all morning getting him on his feet every time he went down, the vet tried all the usual treatments and said he needed to go to the equine hospital so we phoned round everyone we knew to find a horsebox to take him (Sunday lunchtime in France - everyone is at table!) but he died in theatre. I feel so sorry for my friend who rescued him 12 years ago from harsh treatment - and for his stablemate Buffalo who is 34 years old and doesn't understand where his friend has gone - anyone got any tips on what to do with horses who have lost their friends? We tried putting him in with my horses but he broke out of the field (through an electric fence) to go back to the box where he'd last seen Hugo.

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Helen

So sorry for you.

For the horse, you and your friend give, Bach flower remedie, and Iganatia.

At least the last years of his life was good.

http://www.elixirs.com/Remedy.htm#GlossS

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Horseybird; unpaid Horseball groom in Normandie.

Poor old lad - your friend must be devastated ((((((((((Hugs))))))))))))) to her.
You both did all you could to help him - it was his time to go.

RIP Hugo

Chris xx

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How very sad. RIP Hugo :-(

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Never smile at a crocodile...

How incredibly sad you must all be exhausted and devastated, {{{{{HUG}}}}} to you and your friend, thinking of you at this difficult time.

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I agree with Horseybird. The Bach remedy you need at this particular moment is Star of Bethleham. It would be good for your friend, Martine, too. It is for shock and berevement, amongst other emotions. They can be found in natural health shops. You need to put 4 drops into a dropper bottle. Fill this bottle with mineral water and put 4 drops onto a slice of apple as many times a day as possible, especially for the first week or so. After that at least twice a day. If it is possible find a companion, or even borrow another horse for company. Although the horse will never replace the departed one, it is easier for the one left behind as I think he will be busy getting to know another one, also, being a herd animal may feel more secure. I firmly believe where there is a strong bond between friends like these, and as animals are more intuitive than most people, his friend may let him know he is okay now.
Chris.

RIP Hugo. My deepest condolences to you & your friend. She did a great thing to rescue him & she tried to save him this morning, too. I'm sure he must have treasured his time with her.

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RIP Hugo! Poor lad - but your friend was his angel for many years & he knew he was loved. Much sympathy to your friend & to you for your valiant efforts. Sometimes we can only hope that the suffering will end quickly & the beloved animal will pass on with dignity.

I also hope Buffalo will regain some calm & still be able to have a quality life. Hang in there, old boy!

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"Our horses know our secrets...we braid our tears into their manes & whisper our dreams into their ears." Anonymous

So sorry.... RIP Hugo.

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"Friday's child is loving and giving"

thanks everyone for your messages. Will pass on the advice about Star of Bethlehem. Going to try and put Buffalo in with Gandalf this afternoon to see how they get on together - he's had to spend the night in another friend's loose box as he kept getting out of his field!

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Helen