Equines

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Last week, my friend Anna and I made a plan to ride horseback today in the neighborhood. The suddenly changing weather might affect us. Freezing rain fell overnight, and this morning’s temps in the low-thirties aren’t welcoming. Our plan might go on hold until next week when expectations are for warmer weather.

During these last couple of weeks working at HD, my shifts are from 3 to 8 p.m. After arriving home around 9, I must feed the horses. That consumes more time because my donkey Pimmy needs medication. I put the horses and Pimmy into the barn, a closed area, for otherwise, Pimmy wouldn’t let me and a syringe near her. She circles in the barn, and I follow until she decides to pause and allow a syringe. Hopefully, she’s realizing that only after taking meds does she get hay.

After letting the equines eat for an hour or so, I’ll release them from the barn. On late outings, my Border Collie, Miles, is my companion. He’s relatively quiet and loves accompanying me. For me, he’s a reassuring presence.

As to Pimmy, I hope eventually that she simply lets me walk to her and medicate. One thing about her I’ve not recognized is her sheer strength. Pimmy usually is easy, unresisting, and willing. But nowadays, without a halter, rope, and her permission, it’s impossible for me to hold her still.

At least we have an okay start. We have a process that works, and she’s receiving medications.

Dear Friends: I’m out to feed horses now, and be ready if we do ride. Diana