When I got Echo 8 ½ years ago, it was a childhood dream come true. Little did I know the profound effect this beautiful, sweet little ex-lesson show-winning gelding would have on every aspect of my life. Echo informed me upon his arrival that at 21 years of age he was not old and he wanted to work—a lot. We rode almost every day, and Echo inspired me to write a book and create my equine assisted coaching business. He was my partner and co-coach, helping me and the leaders I coached be more self-aware, and able to recognize and use thoughts, emotions, and actions to be more effective—something horses do naturally. In addition, Echo loves children, so whenever there was a child who wanted to ride a horse, Echo was thrilled to take them, and his care and sweetness always shone through. Along the way, Echo brought amazing friends, trainers, and horse care workers of all kinds into my life, teaching me to be an educated advocate for his health and welfare.
Five years ago a lameness issue surfaced that forced me to cut back on and eventually stop riding Echo. This opened the door for us to learn liberty work together, and it has been pure joy to see my heart horse learn and perform with me with such effervescence and joy. We continued to coach, and occasionally have a small child ride Echo -his care and sweetness were still so fresh and beautiful.
Eighteen months ago I bought Amigo. Echo has done everything I have asked of him to help Amigo. He has been that steady, calm, presence for Amigo, helping him settle in, heal, do liberty and eventually riding. Echo has been immeasurable helpful to both Amigo and I. But Echo seemed just tolerant of Amigo, and watches us from his pasture when we work together. While I give Echo plenty of time as well, he seems sad when he sees us working without him.
Today Echo informed me that while he wants to be with me, he doesn’t want to work anymore. At 29 (83 in human years) he has most certainly earned a rich retirement. He will still run to greet me, and play with other horses, but he is done performing with me. He will still help me coach, but other than that it is time to retire. His legs hurt too much. This has made me incredibly sad.
I am preparing myself for the day I will not have Echo with me. The thought makes me cry.
As long as Echo has a good quality of life-- a spark in his eye, the opinionated feistiness to inform me of what he wants, and the ability to move without much pain- he will be cherished and loved. I am doing my best to prepare to let him go. We talk about it from time to time-today he said don’t worry he is not going yet, and he is looking forward to spring.
Of course Echo could go tomorrow or ten years from now. So I cherish his sweetness, his calmness, his practicality, and his strong opinions on everything. I hug him and tell him he is still gorgeous and majestic and amazing. He says he knows. 😊
What a horse.
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