I've been looking into this kind eye for 8 years. Yesterday I did it for possibly the last time. Montana's 2-week trial is nearing its end and the lady who tried him out loves him to bits. I brought him a peanut-butter apple (slice a small apple in half, put PB in the cut surface and stick it back together). I was expecting a wrenching experience. Here's what made it easier:
1. He looked completely happy and somehow younger. He has just joined the new pasture mates he's been hobnobbing with over the fence for a week and a half. They were all sailing around his new pasture (which has a good surface and autumn grass) at high speed and his tail was up like a banner.
2. He comes when she calls him. For 8 years I tried to get this horse to come to me in the pasture with zero luck. Rattling a treat bag, smooching, calling, waiting, walking sideways, I tried every trick I could think of. Yesterday she went to the rail and yelled "Montana!" and he came sailing in at a big lofty trot.
3. He looked me in the eye as I fed him his apple, and he was at peace. The eyes were what I fell in love with long ago as a green rider; soft and friendly and open-hearted. I felt like the message I got was, "Yeah, this is a good deal. I like this place. You can go now."
4. The prospective new owner (he still has to vet out)walked me to my car afterwards and we had a far-ranging political conversation in which we discovered total, complete, 100% agreement on everything including the current presidential campaign and the future of the world. I know we live in a democracy in which let a thousand opinions flourish, but it's comforting to find a kindred soul.
11 comments:
awww...well I am glad that it wasn't as hard ot say good bye as you thought it was. You knew all along that this would be a good home if they wanted him...and they wanted him. Plus he is still in the area and you mentioned that they show so you can still go out and watch him at his cleanist and most dapper!
If you and Montana feel that this is the best thing for both of you and that it will make you both happy, then you should go for it. He seems like he likes it there and also likes the woman who will be his new owner. Make sure to show her how to make his peanut butter apples, this way he will always think of you while he enjoys this particular treat. You can still see him because he is close, so that's a plus. Good Luck to both of you.
OntheBit; You're right; it did always look a good place for him, and I can always go out and visit - she emphasized that too. Good comfort; thanks!
GreyHorse: She was interested in and agreed to make the PB apples and I feel convinced she will follow through. She seems rock solid. I suspect that's some of what he loves about her. Thank you!!
I have always believed that "our" animals come into our lives when needed, and leave when their work is done... seems to me that Montana has completed his work with you and has moved into the life of someone who needs his gifts now. the hard part is knowing when we need to let them move on... (remind me of that when I take in my next rescue/foster dog!!!) from what you tell us, he is in a happy place and you are at peace with it...and all will be well...
I like that he's "telling" you he's okay with his new set of circumstances. They don't always get the chance to be part of the choice where they go. I hope he vets out okay for her!
ah, they sound like a great match.
They sound like a perfect match! Thats is we can really hope for when we sell our equine partners.
I feel for you as Star and I went through that as well, but then she came BACK! long story. I love my horses as they were my own children and maybe more, so heres a hug and prayer that you'll find peace that he found a awesome new person to love him as much as you do.
Lucky you, finding him such a great home. I know how hard it is to let a horse move on to a new owner, but it sounds like you found the best possible match for Montana and you! I hope everything works out for both of you.
Sue, that is a wonderful way of thinking about it - that our animals are with us only so long as they need to be.
Jenn: Thanks, yes, he did seem to be clearly making a statement! Which I appreciated.
Ranchette: She's ex-military, a nurse, and the mother of a teen; she can steady him and he can adore her; match made in heaven!
Jocelyn: Star came back? Must be an interesting story there!
Jester: I do feel very lucky. If he passes the vet check!
Yeah!... Montana is off to fill another person's heart with much joy. 30 years from now, maybe this girl will tell stories about this amazing horse "Montana" that will forever hold her heart. Horses go where they are needed. They are our angels.....let go, but hold him close.
Photogchic, I love that idea: "Let go, but hold him close." Great advice.
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