It has been a while since the last entry but it was important to write today to talk about Muskat. He passed on today from a sudden and severe bout of colic. It is still hard to believe that he won't be running in with the "Boys" for oatie-oats ever again. Muskat came to live with us in 1999 when I saw a little ad in the Bargain Finder, that read "free" horse. His owner, Gladys, explained that her circumstances had changed and she was looking for a good home for him and that yes, he was free but that I couldn't ever sell him. Gladys had raised him from birth and didn't want to loose track of him but she was very particular about who she was giving him to. She interviewed interested parties and watched how they handled him and how he reacted to them and then she also checked out where he was going to live. It seems like only yesterday when she called to say she had chosen us to have him.
Over the years he has given so much joy to me and more recently, the Horsing Around students. Upon learning of Muskat's death, Sheila, a Horsing Around student, wrote these words to me:
What I learned from Muskat (and you Tovie):
• that touching and caring for another creature reduces fear and brings unexpected closeness
• that it's possible to completely forget yourself when you are learning about how to do something new
• that no matter who (or what) we are, thoughtful attention to our needs is a wonderful thing
We are so sorry to hear about Muskat. Yes - we can't help but agree with you that it would have been dreadful to see him suffer. We are thinking about you.
Muskat was not only beautiful, his manners were impecable and he had the sweetest disposition. Although he wasn't very big, he was fiesty and second in command, after Peppy San, in the pecking order. We used to tease that he had small-man syndrome because he would boss even the biggest of the "Boys". As a testament to his sweet, considerate nature, he even chose a convenient day to say goodbye. I had already booked off work for the day to have the vet come for the annual teeth and vaccinations. When I saw him down this morning, I called the vet who rearranged his schedule to come here early. Once it was apparent that it would be impossible to save him, the decision was made that it was best to put him down rather than have him suffer. I will be forever grateful that he chose today so he didn't suffer very long and I could be with him.
Good-bye sweet little horse,
Love from me and your "Boys"
3 comments:
dear Tovie.
today my mom told me what happened and how muskat is no longer with us. When she told me i really couldnt believe it. He was such a great horse with quite the personality and i never thought he would go. Me and him always did get alone, possibly because we both like to be bossy sometimes haha or maybe because we were both caring. I sure do remember that boy having quite the small-man syndrome, but it seemed to work for him. I wish i could have been there to say good bye to him, he really was a great horse and one of my favs. (sorry boys i love you all) but i did get to spent most of my time riding him and together we taught each other alot. i always felt safe riding him, even the one day he decided to gallop off by the polo club with me on his back. but i new he would never do any thing to hurt me. i learned to always be calm wen i was riding him because he sure new wen i wasnt. i will dearly miss him!! We all love you muskat!! you taught so many people so many things and for that you will never be forgoten!
XoXo. your barn buddy, Jenna
PS ill be over soon to see you (with my car)
Dear Tovie,
I am so very sorry to hear about Muskat! It is clear to me that Muskat had nine very happy years with you and Gord.
I enjoyed working with Muskat, he taught me alot about myself and about the person I want to be when it comes to horses. I feel very blessed to have spent time with this personable gentle horse.
He is in a better place now, but none the less will be sadly missed by many!
My thoughts.
Sharla McRae
I was very sad to receive your email regarding Muskat, I am very sorry to hear he is gone. He was a very sweet and gentle little guy, I am happy that I had the opportunity to be around him. His gentle demeanor gave me confidence and for that I am truly grateful.
He will be sadly missed by his muched loved family and friends. Sweet dreams little Muskat!
Shauna Watson
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