The End of a Chapter | Dragon's Retirement Story
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- Опубликовано: 8 сен 2024
- For those of you who know, "D" aka Dragon has been my heart horse, best friend and main jumper for the past four years. We have a very special bond together. This is a very, very short version of his story which has ultimately led to his retirement as of August 2020 and it has absolutely crushed me. Thank you so much for watching and I apologize for the emotions, I'm still processing it all and doing my best, but you have all asked for the story so here it is.
I love how holistic you are, you literally tried EVERYTHING to make sure that he was OK! Even the psychic, I know you'll cop some flack for it, but honestly it's really lovely to see the care that goes into your horses!
my respect for her and my faith in her is endless
Yeah, the psychic said he’s afraid of the mountain lions - so she tossed him in the wild with no food, care or vet, all to his own vices. Weird woman.
I know this sounds crazy but I’d invest in some cameras. Sounds like some shit is going down when you aren’t there. You should try liberty with d
This is so selfless. You tried EVERYTHING. Even if it didn’t work, you still tried!! That’s more than a lot of people do. He’s a special horse with the best owner.
It’s always hard having to make that decision to retire your horse. Knowing that there is nothing left to do for them but to let them be a pasture pet. I had to do that with my first horse and it sucked knowing that I would never be able to jump him again. I may not have had to put him down but it was still just as hard. He’s a happy pasture puff now but I still get a little sad when I think of him. I empathize with you Zoe and I know you will give the D the best you can while he is still here.
I will never forget how D was so attached to you love to you Amanda
Crying with you. I very much know this heartache. You are loved and supported, as is D.
Awh, I've never even seen one of your videos and I feel so much empathy for you right now.💓 You just sound so defeated. I can tell by looking at D, that he's truly something special when he is able to work. He's gorgeous! I'm so sorry he's been overly accident prone. Sometimes it feels unfortunate that we can't actually wrap them in bubble wrap. It's never easy doing the right thing, especially when it hurts. You did right by him despite the fact that it hurts you to have to do so. What a wonderful gift you have given him! He gets to spend his life retired in green pastures, so many others out there don't put the horse first, or dump them as soon as they can't do anything considered useful. D is lucky to have you and the incredible care that you obviously give him.❤
I am so sorry. My friend is going through something similar with her horse and I know how sad it is. May he have the happiest of retirements. ❤️❤️🐉🐉❤️❤️
You are doing the right thing in retiring a horse that can't, shouldn't and maybe simply doesn't want to be ridden. He's gonna be much happier now and you show true horsemanship in doing what's best for D.
Omg, you have done more than all is humanly,& humanely possible for this big beautiful boy. 💞💞💞 I've just stumbled on to your channel, & love it!!!
i agree with your choices zoe; it was the right thing retiring him. it's so unfortunate, but he deserves it. you can get through this, and just know that D will still be happy no matter what. i have more to say, but i can't think of the proper words right now. just know it's all my love and utter support :).🐉🐉❤❤❤
The main reason I follow you is because of your care and love for the horses you work with/own. You always do what’s best for them and you turn abused horses into beautiful, thriving animals. I know this was hard for you but it’s just another testament to your character and your love for the animal. I’m glad D has you.
So sad for you D and Zoey. I know how much you love him and you will miss riding D. That being said, you have gone to the ends of the earth to make him completely comfortable along this journey. There is no better horse woman/ mom for the gelding than you. My thoughts and good vibes coming your way💙
So sorry that so much went wrong with your horse. I just wanted to give you a tissue, a hug and some tea at the end there. Poor D. But you're giving him a great retirement. He'll be happy on the pasture with his friends - who knows what secret pain he was suffering. You've done the right thing.
Wow, I’m crying with you Zoey. You give your horses better care and more love that anyone I’ve ever seen. I admire your strength and good, kind heart. D is a lucky horse to have a mama who loves him enough to realize and do what’s best for him. ❤️🐴
You should try Liberty with D!! I think y’all both would enjoy that!
Good suggestion. ♥
In life we can't change what is meant to be. You did everything you could do in love and that was enough. Bless you.
Thank you for the kind words.
I am SO glad you have his brother. D is so lucky to have someone who puts this much love, money, time, and effort into him.
May D have a wonderful retirement. You did what’s best for D. Sending you positive vibes Zoey. 💫🐎❤️
I know how you feel. I had to retire my heart horse at nine years old due to soundness issues, and he was everything I’ve ever dreamed of. Perfect, gorgeous gentleman, and such a kind & patient horse. He had an old foal injury that he eventually became sound on, then he had an accident in the lunge ring, and we spent countless time rehabbing, yet nothing seemed to work. He is now retired at pasture, and spending the rest of his life enjoying the grass, friends, and showing off his goofiness to people who visit the barn. I truly believe that he is happy now❤️ Don’t worry, you don‘t owe D anything, and he knows how much effort you gave trying to keep him happy. Sometimes the best choices hurt the most, but knowing what you did was right is important.
I give you so much credit for doing what is best for him, it is so hard but allowing him to live with happy days ahead is the best gift.
Having been around horses somewhat and also raising 3 kids with lots of weird stuff, I wondered if you considered: (a) having water and food sources, and medications- such as wormers, ointments, fly sprays, linaments, tested by MORE THAN ONE entity, (b) food allergies (c) things that are around the barn and in trailers that might be chewed on or eaten out of ( buckets, hay nets, troughs) (d) exhaust/ emissions from trailers, trucks, tractors your animals may be exposed to (e) electrical cords that horses might have bitten ( I worked where a very expensive horse did this before I came there and it was said he was never the same in the head afterwards; thus the man who ran the stables was vigilant about things plugged in that a horse might be able to reach). I also read about a deadly corn mold. There are so many things in our environment. Insects, lead, locoweed, ...wierd stuff found in all kinds of products..like melamine put in baby formula by Chinese manufacturers. Mercury in vaccines. The surveillance cameras are a good idea. There are a lot of sadistic people around as well as critters. Wonder is a goat-friend would help?
I'm so sorry, my heart breaks for the both of you. I respect you for making the decision to not only retire him but keep him with you for his retirement.
As much as it hurts you are doing whats best for him. He is a beautiful horse and you have worked wonders with him. damn now Im tearing up....
Aw Zoey I’m sorry about all of that. D has such a good home with you with how much you did for him. Let him know how much he’s loved💜
Bless u my darling I feel your frustration and upset its a very similar story with my boy all his injuries have been from being silly out in the paddock (pasture) for many yrs I've done absolutely everything like yourself to get to the bottom of it but its always one thing after another, he had a bad fall in the paddock a few yrs ago and ever since then he has always been very up and down physically, my boy is 13yrs old never been the easiest to handle or ride but he is my absolute everything and as long as he is ok and happy which out in the paddock he is then I can't ask for anything more, we still go on hacks (trail) rides every now and then not very often but besides all his injuries which he tends to 9 times out of 10 bring on himself he is a healthy and happy boy and may we have many many more yrs together and I wish the same for you and Dragon 😊💙
Heartbreaking... sorry for both of you... D is lucky to have you as his best friend. Wishing him a happy retirement.
I was so sorry to hear about D. I know it’s tough but you are doing the right thing. I can tell how much you love him. He will be ok. Please keep us updated.
You poor darling...clearly you adore this beautiful boy and have tried so very hard to work things out and make it right. At the end of the day he’s one very lucky horse to have you in his life. Warmest hugs to you precious girl.
It’s sad to see such a great trainer cry made me cry but you doing the right thing you’re such a good horse gorgeous one but clumsy Love him so much glad you’re keeping him he is such a young horse to retire but he’s going to have a lovely life with you and you’re going to love him as much as he loves you clearly my heart goes out to you BSafe take care lots of love from Ali and PJ my dog I’m Jersey Channel Islands❤️❤️❤️
You are such a wonderful person to share such a hard decision but the love you have for dragon shows you gave the best life and retirement a horse could ever ask for chin up dragon is grateful for everything you have done for him
so terribly sorry zoey. you’re the best horse mama though and it’s amazing you knew that this would be the best option for him 💜
Oh girl, I so feel you with all of this. My mare is accident prone and there's so many things that just aren't right but can't seem to find answers about them. It truly is like a trauma to go through and I'm so sorry you're dealing with all these tough decisions with your heart horse. But he's so lucky to have you and you will find new ways to connect and enjoy your time together ❤️ sending lots of love to you and D
I support your heartbreaking decision 100 percent! You care about your animals so much and it’s obvious ! You did the right thing! I know that doesn’t help with the emotional roller coaster but you are an amazing equestrian and horsewoman and I admire your patience, tenacity , and compassion ! I am SO sorry you had to endure this and make that choice! D has obviously touched your heart and it proves once again that horses mean way more to us equestrians than people realize ! Chin up girl! We are here to support you and I thank you so much for being so genuine, and honest and raw on your videos your channel is my absolute favorite !
Zoey, you are an amazing person and always do the absolute best for your horses. I have the utmost respect for you for that because not everyone would do what you do. D has an amazing life and I know he will be spoiled forever ❤️ sending love to you and the Dragon 🐉
So sorry! 😢😢😢. Doing the right thing is not always easy. Good on you!
I’m so sorry. You care so much for all of your horses and give them your best. This sounds now like the best for both Dragon and you. Deep breath and know you did everything imaginable. ❤️
Omg this video had me in tears. Big hugs and hope all is well with you both x
Thank You for sharing this, I'm so sorry this has happened to both You and D. Earlier this month I was forced to retire my 7 yo due to an injury. I have known him since he was 3 and he has always been and will be my heart horse. The decision to retire him was one of the hardest I have ever made, he was a top eventing prospect and my chance to move up the levels, but I know it's for the better. He has always absolutely adored his job and I can see that he misses it as much as I do. I wish both our special boys happy retirement, stay strong
I love D. He was very sweet and kind. You have done the best thing for him and not risking it. Keep up the wonderful work you are doing with your horses❤️ I cried when you cried😢
I’m so sorry Zoe. I lost my warm blood to a suspensary injury and it was so hard. I feel your pain but at least you get to spend the rest of his life with him and he has a safe home. Hang in there ❤️
He is beautiful and I can't believe how much you went through. You obviously love this guy, and he knows it 😍
Thank you so much for sharing your story of Dragon!! I cried while watching because it sounds SOOOO much like my history with my OTTB, Soup. Insecure, cold backed, accident prone, sweet itch, kissing spine, arthritis, rehabbed after a herdmate kicked in in the hock and brought back several times, vetted to hell and back and treated for ulcers when physical and fitness seemed to be okay. I called out a professor of equine animal behavior to help me because I was at the end of expertise. I retired him to pasture when he was 13. You are brave and empathic for allowing Dragon to retire. It’s not easy by any means but you’re not alone in the pain of letting a dream go.
Sending so much love. You have done everything you could for him and continue to do so. Dragon is very lucky to have you, and you have some wonderful memories with him ❤️
I am so so sorry Zoe! I cannot imagine the pain and disappointment you are going through right now. To have to retire a heart horse at ony 12 is simply devastating. Hopefully someday you'll be able to hop on for a bareback jaunt around the property for old times sake.
Sending love to you and D, Zoey. This is never an easy decision but you are so strong and such a good horse mama for doing this for him.
i’m so sorry zoey, i cant imagine. I love how you literally tried everything possibly to make sure he was okay. 💗Everything will be okay! 💗
Poor you. Calamity Jane of horses. Always the ones that steal your heart.
i have major respect for you zoe, you are so selfless and do whats best for your horses.
Bless your heart. He’s one lucky dragon.
My heart hurts for you.I was crying watching this.You can see how much you love him.Huge hugs all the way from Oz.xx
D knows u gave, and still giving your entire heart to him🥺❤️
I am so sorry Zoey. I know the bond you and D have. He is very lucky to have you.
Broke my heart, ive watched your progress with him since day one and it sucks to see it end so soon❤️😣. I wish the best to you and a happy retirement for d ❤️❤️
Im so sorry about d! Hes definitely one of a kind! I had to retire my 9 year old! Its definitely hard but it definitely gets easier after awhile...seeing him go out and play with his friends will make things a little better. Im sorry you had to retire him..
He has always been my favorite horse of yours! Best personality and suck a handsome boy! After all these things you guys have gone through together, I think you guys could use this break through, I believe all things happen in life for a reason! Your doing what’s best for your lovely boy and your keeping him for the rest of his days, which is so much more than anything else! Many people will throw horses out to kill pen or someone else once they retire, he’s a lucky guy to have landed his spot with you!
It amazes me how these big beautiful animals can hurt themselves in wackiest ways. I'm sorry for all that you and Dragon have endured in the last year and wish you the best in the future. Life can change in a flash and you never know what can happen. Good luck to you and D there's always light at the end of the tunnel and I'm sure you'll be able to figure it out.
Zoe my heart breaks for you! You are doing the right thing💙 He loves you very much. Thanks for the update and keep us posted on your handsome boy😘
Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing yours and his story. Never apologize for your emotions ♥️ I’m sure this is incredibly heart wrenching for you. I’m so sorry.
I just wanna give you a huge hug girl❤️ thanks for sharing and stay positive!
I can see you love D so much and it sounds like you have went above and beyond to love him and treat him. I’m not a horse persons. I do love animals. And I just started watching your videos. I can see you love your horses. God will give you another special horse in his time. Best wishes.
Thank you for sharing, in spite of these circumstances being so hard. Your words were heartfelt and appreciated. And the raw honesty about your horses is what we all gain so much from, following your channel. I'm bringing my 💙gelding back from mild injury while turned out, and we've seen the vet a lot. Every day I'm hoping I'm doing the right thing for him. You've done EVERYTHING possible for D. And I'm so sorry for you both, that his retirement has come now. He is so lucky to have you, looking after his well being, past/present/ and future ❤️🐉
You’re a great horse mommy and I hope you never doubt that! Sending you hugs because I can see how hard this is for you ❤️
You're awesome and it'll be ok my friend. ♥♥♥ You guys love each other and that's all that matters.
thank you so much for opening up the way you did, you are the most honest equestrian i know and although its hard what you are doing really helps others. this is the stuff that happens with horses, i´ve been through something very similar and its nice to see this kind of idols we have go through it too, i dont know i guess it makes you human and gives us hope.
D could not be in better hands, what we do is all about the love we have for horses and he most be one of the most loved horses in the planet. Thank you! sending love
Thank you for being such an advocate for your horse! You literally tried everything. Despite being a tough one; you are making the best decision for him! No one should think any less of you.
I’ve been watching your channel for the last few weeks off and on and you have a beautiful facility. Dragon looks amazing and after just listening to all the time and effort (plus money) you’ve put into him it’s obvious how much affection you have for him. I’m really sorry for you that you have to retire such a gorgeous animal. But it’s also encouraging to know you’ll take care of him for the rest of his life. You have extensive knowledge and you’re beautiful lady. Please know that I will support your channel and I hope you feel better soon!
I'm so sorry. I went through a similar thing earlier this year with my main competition horse. He had an injury in the field that left him almost completely blind. So not only did he have to be immediately retired, but now I am trying to manage a blind horse. Luckily I keep my horses at home and I am able to make accommodations for him, but is has not been an easy adjustment, and we've had a few emergency vet visits for injuries caused by his blindness. It's heartbreaking when it feels like they still had so much to give in their riding careers, but I am very grateful to still have him with me.
I’ve been putting off watching this because I knew this would make me sad. Especially the end of this video made me so sad. I’ve gone through a very similar, very long slew of events with beau that ultimately led to no more riding for the two of us. Its been very mentally, physically and financially difficult. But, it’s also been a rewarding, loving, and heartbreaking journey and hearing d’s story reminded me a bit of beau and i. i’m so sorry your time with him in the saddle has come to an end. it makes me happy to know he is so loved, and that he’s able to live out his days with you 💙
I’ve been through a similar situation & know how hard it is. You are wonderful for doing what’s right for him. 💕
I'm so sorry you had to go through this, it was very helpful for you to take us through your story with him. It's so easy for people to fall into the 'riding into the sunset' mindset when we get a horse and not understand all the hills we go up and down while on the journey with them, so i'm grateful that you opened up to shed light on the reality of what can happen and how to put the horse first.
You're very strong and you will get through this, all the things he has taught you I'm sure you will take with you for the rest of your life and those are the most cherished; the things you've learned and will continue to learn from this experience. Follow your heart darling.
I'm so sorry, its heartbreaking having to make these decisions. My best friend had to euthanize her 6 year old mare (her heart horse) for on going lameness issues. Unfortunately she just couldn't keep her pasture sound and it was the best choice for her.
I know everyone says it, but just be glad you can still go out and hug him after a bad day 💕
My heart hurts for you. I’m so sorry that his story has gone in this direction. He’s very lucky to have you. **hugs** 💞
So sorry about the outcome, much love to you and D. Your horses are very lucky to have a person like you to stand behind them 💕
Thank you for being open and honest lots of people would just sweep it under the carpet and pretend it not happening at least he is in the best place for his retirement he is a lucky boy to have you for his mum most people would be like they can’t do nothing so let’s just get rid of them like a piece of rubbish or a commodity so thank you for being a true and honest person and true to who you are on the inside as well as on the out you are a wonderful caring compassionate person so thank you
So sorry to hear, never easy having to make that decision but you’ve done the right thing for you and him. Thanks for sharing your story, I nearly had to retire my mare due to injuries as well and I was heartbroken. Thank god, I’ve been able to rehab her over the last few years and she’s come good however when the times right she’ll become a happy retired horse instead. Love watching your RUclips after following your Instagram for so long
honestly watching Zoey tear up at the end made me tear up 🥺🥺. Sending love💕💕
I’m really sorry about D, we are here for you❤️❤️
Im so sorry! You are amazing with horses and tried everything you could. I think you made the right decision. He will be happy with his friends and in retirement. I know you will continue to take good care of him!
Aw. I'm sorry. This makes me cry and I don't even have a horse. I"ve always been a horse lover (I rode my niece's horses as a child) but never had the privilege to own one. Clearly you love him dearly and you've done everything you can for him and he is so fortunate to be with you. Take care.
It's awesome to see that you put D's needs above anything else. He is lucky to have you
So sorry and feel your pain. You are a true horsewoman. God bless you. ❤️
You obviously didn't make this decision lightly ie.. even a Psychic.😊 respect to you for taking your career so seriously. The horses are lucky to have you.
You have done everything you can don't be sad.
Hon I'm sorry. This 68 yr old great grandma that loves horses passionately sending love and prayers your way
I’m so sorry D is so lucky to have such an amazing owner❤️❤️🐉🐉
Well this had me in tears, I hope your heart heals soon Zoey.
That is such a crazy journey with D! I have had a similar situation to you as with my own horse! It's a tough decision, and you made the right decision for his health and his well being!!💙
What a difficult and emotional road you've been on. Our relationship with our horses is so intuitive; your gut has told you something isn't right, and it's important that you've paid attention to that for your safety and his, however difficult the decision. He's a very lucky boy to have such a caring and determined mom, and you've still got so many wonderful years ahead to enjoy with him as you both start this new chapter. For however much this counts coming from an internet stranger, I'm proud of you for making this challenging and selfless choice, and proud of you for sharing his story. ♥️
i'm so sorry i know D was amazing and i'm glad you're doing everything that you do for him. you're truly an amazing trainer and owner.
So sorry to hear this. So glad you will be keeping him in your care. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
we will never forget how amazing coke lover d is! you are such an inspiration always putting your horses first and never stop doing what you do! ❤️🐉
Oh please don't cry....he is still with us and will be and he knows that he is loved.
Sad and no doubt about it, but everything will be fine with him because you won't leave him.
I’m so sorry that d is out but you’re blessed that you’re able to keep him and give him all the love he needs
You are an amazing person and he is lucky to have you 💕💕
I’m so sorry! It took so much to make the decision you made. You will have him for many years to come❤️❤️🐴🐴.
So sorry for you. It is so 😥 to see you cry...sending love from Germany. ❤
I'm so sorry to hear about D. I loved watching you guys together, sending good vibes your way. ❤️
My heart breaks for you. I’ve always looked up to you and D and have thought you two were phenomenal. It’s hard having to make the call to retire them, and I’m sorry it had to happen so soon. Sending love your way.
Back issues in horses can be seriously frustrating.
I had to retire my Thoroughbred when he was fifteen. Seriously understand.