What would you do if you were me?

[Scarlette]

Well, so far so good! We've had some crappy days weather wise and she seems to be holding her own, we haven't needed the bute just yet...but winter has only just begun.

[Linda Lee]

That's good news!
I don't know what I'll do when my horse starts having problems.

[HalUnforgetable]

I have known and loved horses for all of my life. It certainly is hard to let them go.
I know that it will be very hard for you if you are faced with that desition. I think that you may want to keep on babying her, and if worst comes to worst, and life doesn't seem fun to her anymore, it is time to let her go.

[Brenda]

Scarlette) I just located this thread and this is one of my most weak spots as I am a horse lover, but don't have the means to have one. I used to show horses during my school years, so owning one is a "huge" dream of mine. It's wonderful that you don't have to start the bute process as of yet, but do make sure you keep some on hand. I know you are concerned about her being slow, but she is taking care of herself by not over exerting. Having a stall available is the best thing you could do. There is nothing wrong with being prepared being a horse owner you have to be. Just make sure you keep extra blankets in there if you do indeed end up putting her there to use in a pinch. I would definitely not put her to sleep as of right now. Not unless, of course, she is showing signs of severe pain to where it would be a blessing. You said her joints are cracking/popping are you keeping her legs wrapped? The best thing for you to do is not worry about the "unknown" and cherish each day god has given you two together. It wouldn't hurt to give her an extra apple, carrott or two. Just spend this winter and thereafter spoiling her rotten and making sure she is comfortable. I know it will be hard, but do consider setting asside a resting place for her. It will be easier on you to go ahead and do this when you don't need one as opposed to going through the grieving process then finding her a resting place. Good Luck Scarlette and my prayers are with the both of you! Please do keep us updated.

[Brenda]

PS Scarlette, I know you have pics of Foxy so let's see what she looks like.

[Scarlette]

Foxy has been a part of my life for 16 (going on 17) years. My main concern is that I would have to have her put to sleep in the middle of winter and not have a place to bury her. I didn't want to be disrespectful to her by not being able to bury her body.

So far, she is doing just fine. I try to keep the hay close to the watering trough so that she doesn't have to go to far for a drink. Occasionally, when the other 3 hooligans are running around like wild mustangs, Foxy will take a little run with them....usually just a few steps, but it's encouraging to know that she feels good enough to make an effort.

[Scarlette]

Brenda, I have pics here . Foxy is the white one.

Hmm, some of those pics aren't showing up. I'll try to find some other ones.

[dappledoxie]

I hope that I haven't missed out on what is going on with Foxy. Is she still doing ok?

[Runt]

Foxy is a very pretty girl.I am sorry you are having to go thru this.We used to have horses years ago and I would have a tough time making a decision like that.
I hope she is still doing okay and that your winter doesn't get to bad.I will keep you both in my thought and prayers.

[lixx]

It's a hard place to be, but you'll make it through. She sounds like she's enjoying life and as long as she is no worries. I'm sure she'll let you know when/if the time comes. For now, spoil her!

[Scarlette]

She must've been feeling exceptionally frisky yesterday because when I went out to feed them she started chasing after my dog.

I'm going to close the thread now because it's obvious what decision I made. I'm just hoping the next 3 months go well.Thank you everyone for your suggestions and concerns. It really means alot!