Heaven has a new angel.

The grand dam, Autumn has been the lead mare in the youngsters pasture for four years. While in her mid 20's and gimpy from an old injury to her right front leg, she made sure those younger knew she was in charge. Rescued from Riverside Animal Control in Sept. 2013, she spent six weeks at Baker Ranch Equine Rescue then joined the herd here in Snowflake. She blossomed in to a buxom beauty with beautiful curves but still suffered from past treatment being remaining a little head shy. The old injury to her fetlock, calcification in the joint and very limited movement, she has been on pain meds for several years in our effort to help her comfort. This past winter was a little tough with her arthritis and we found her sleeping in the warm sun rather than coming in to eat many days but the warmer weather this summer has been her friend. Earlier this month her injured fetlock started to abscess with infection. After the first round of antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, pain meds, poultices, essential oils and herbs, we thought she was on the mend. But a few days without the drugs the infection reared its ugly head again and has not gone away. The calcification in her fetlock has shattered within her fetlock causing the infection and further treatment would require extensive surgery, painful rehab and no guarantee of complete healing. Colder weather just months away would be hard too. After compensating for her wounded leg for years, her other legs have arthritis and her old bones hate the cold. With her head cradled in my arms for comfort and tears in my eyes we released forever from her pain today. This tough broad touched my heart so deeply...we had so much in common and I marveled at her strength and tenacity. She honored us with her love and I can only hope she will watch over us from heaven. Lord please welcome our boss mare into your loving arms. We love you SO much Autumn......I will miss you with all my heart!