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[Joan Deutsch]

We recently put down our beautiful rescue horse, Grace, because of her deteriorating soundness problems. Fortunately, it was a peaceful ending at home so that went as well as those things can be expected. Just wanted to post some pictures of what she achieved. 2012 was a big year for her. Trainer Juliane Hanley rode her quite a bit and accomplished a lot.

Juliane worked in the arena to desensitize her to a lot of things:





Juliane was able to canter with Grace and their manes were flying:



Juliane and Grace made it out on the trails, too



Over the years, Grace and I had some good rides in the arena. We miss her very much.

[Real time]

So sorry to hear about losing Miss Grace. You provided a great life for her and gave her all the things any spoiled horse could wish for. RIP Grace

[Rngovvet]

So sorry. You worked hard to get her over her stuff.

[turnershaven]

Joan, I am so sorry about Miss Grace. What a hard decision to have to make. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your hubby. I will hug my boys extra hard today for you You worked very hard for her and with her and I know that she had a great life with you.

[Joan Deutsch]

Thanks for the kind words. You guys are the best! I also meant to thank everyone who helped brainstorm as we tried to figure out the best way to work through her issues.

[horsepeople2001]

sorry for the loss.

[kriss10]

So sorry to hear about Grace. I knew there were issues but is sure seemed that you were working through them. You never even hinted that this might be coming so soon. Having just been through that with Ginger, I understand your pain even more. Ginger was the first horse I ever had to put down, and I don't think it will ever get any easier. Find joy in Joe and Cody - they will help to heal your heart.

[Joan Deutsch]

Thanks, Kriss. Yes, Grace went downhill quickly. She started having more soundness issues the end of July so we had vet visits and treatments into September -- but no luck. Then her digestion issues (stemming from scar tissue from her early malnutrition) intensified. We'd been dealing with so many health issues during the 9 years she was with us, and it became apparent that she was no longer comfortable. The saddest part is that the guy who owned the 40 neglected horses in Grace's herd still had horses on the track the last I heard. Animal welfare laws still aren't effective enough.

[kriss10]

I remember the problems you were having with Grace years ago when I first found the forum. It is a hard decision to make, but ultimately we just need to do what is best for them. At least Ginger was 22 years old - I think that makes it a bit easier. She would have been so uncomfortable with this weather we are having right now that I am glad we didn't wait any longer. I think it was a lot harder on the SO - she was the first horse the he ever owned and he loved he silly expresions and the way she would sneak back to the barn for a treat. We kept all of her mane and tail hair and I plan to get crafty with it and see what I can make.

[JulianeH]

I am SO sorry about Grace's passing, Joan. You are a wonderful horse owner and definitely went above and beyond for Grace. I am so grateful that I was able to work with her. She taught me a lot from the first to the last ride. While there were times she and I were both frustrated with each other, there were many more times that we were all elated with our progress, proud of what we'd learned together and looked forward to our next adventure. Thank you so much for the opportunity to work with one of the coolest horses I've ever known. She will always have a special place in my heart. I love and miss you, Grace!