A Sad Day

A sad day. We lost Ruby, the lead mare of our little herd. She had been sick since Saturday with a severe colic, which despite all my parents' and the vet's best efforts, steadily worsened. She couldn't eat or drink and by this morning, her poor belly was swollen to twice normal size. She fought the good fight, but about 10am today, her body couldn't take it anymore and her heart just gave out. Mom and Dad were with her, Mom having spent the whole previous night in the stall to monitor and comfort her.
Ruby was a terrific little horse, an American Miniature, and like most of her breed she was sweet-natured and intelligent. She was very gentle, affectionate, a willing worker, very steady, and patient with children. There is a little boy in my parents' neighborhood with Down Syndrome who loves to stop by and visit the horses, and Ruby seemed to know that he needed extra gentleness. She was a very attentive mother, and gave us a beautiful filly, Rosie, who survives her along with Star, another mare. Poor Rosie seems bewildered and distressed by Ruby's absence. I know how she feels.
Ruby was beloved by our whole family, and many friends besides. She will be sadly missed. Goodbye, sweet girl.