A friend of mine has two grand old mares: a 25+ Hanoverian mare and a 23+ Thoroughbred mare. They are sweet mares who have had a wonderful, exciting life and a great retirement. They have been baby sitters for new riders, enjoyed fox hunting, and have been blessed with good owners. Owners who love them enough to listen when these grand old girls say they are in pain and it is time to let them go.
I have been through this process with Basette, Ambush, and Stella. It is heart wrenching enough with kitties, I can’t imagine having to do this for a horse. (Although one day, I know I will.)
I have known these grand old girls for two years. Sweet mares with patience learned from years of dealing with silly humans. You can see it in their eyes that they are tired and hurting.
I think their owners are making the right decision. The mares will be free to rest in greener pastures and play like the fillies they both are at heart.