Around the Barn

Rocky was one of those rare horses that touch our lives for a moment but remain in our hearts forever. I purchased Rocky's mother, Hannah, when he was just a few days old. I really wanted the palomino colt to use in my Missouri Foxtrotting Pony breeding program. When he arrived at our barn, he was not real sure about us or the place. It didn't take long for his true personality to shine! He became the Prince of the barn. He would eagerly greet me with a nicker. He was so small that all you could see over the bottom half of the stall door was his nose and ears. He was a quick learner and nothing bothered him. The little girls showered him with baths, brushing and play time with the bunnies and cats. He knew his manners and took the halter and lead rope in stride. We tried Clinton Anderson and Pat Parelli training techniques - he caught on to them all.

At a very young 10 months of age, we were forced to make the decision that every horseman dreads. Rocky suffered a spinal cord injury that was not operable. After consultation with several vets, it was decided to humanely euthanize Rocky. The barn is not the same place without Rocky and we all still mourn his loss. I remember him with fondness and a few tears but I know that I was blessed to have shared in his short life.