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Rescued From Slaughter Aged 8 - Now Happily Retired!
A Stabletalk Reader

I thought I would write about my retired pony Shadow and the pleasure he brings. I have had him a good few years now and have known him even longer. Originally saved from slaughter as an eight year old, Shadow was a family pony for the first half of his life. He was then loaned out to an RDA centre before I took him on in 1995.

He had always been my favourite at the centre and to be offered him on loan was a dream come true! He was a wonderful riding pony: kind and gentle, but with enough sparkle to keep me alert when I was riding him! He would jump absolutely anything and was brilliant on the roads. I had to give him up when I went away to university.

However, I always knew that I wanted him back when I had completed my course even though he had been retired in the meantime. This summer I brought Shadow home. Now thirty something with failing eyesight, he is as content as ever.

After having such an active working life, I try to keep things interesting for him: as much turnout as possible and walks out on the roads. I keep him at a local farm with two elderly mares and he is there to stay. I work a long day so in many ways, having a retired horse fits in with my lifestyle although I admit I miss the riding.

I can honestly say that Shadow brings as much pleasure to me now as ever and there is much satisfaction to be had in seeing an old horse thrive and improve, and, most importantly enjoy his life to the full.

He still enjoys having a good canter round the field, albeit a little stiffly! I would hope that after reading this, some people might be encouraged to think again before they discount an old or retired horse. Sadly, I lost touch with Shadow's original owners, the family who rescued him all those years ago. I would love for them and the hundreds of children he taught to ride, to see him now.

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