I'll never ride my horse again.

[@annieclark6535]

Meg, in a world where people push their horses too hard, and ignore the pain, ruling it off as "stubborness" or a "lack of respect", this video has just increased my respect for you tenfold. You listened to your gut, and now Ari doesn't have to suffer a life being pushed to do sports while in pain (which other people have done) thanks to you. Horses wear their hearts of their sleeves; they DO comminucate these things with us. But it takes really special person to notice those small signs and listen. Never riding your horse again is absolutely heartbreaking. But we can find comfort in knowing they don't have to suffer ❤

[@Jzy21]

❤❤

[@user-hh1ro3xw8l]

Very true

[@Starry_Night_Sky7455]

My exact thoughts.

[@sullyhildebrand4636]

I’m so sorry, Meg. Huge huge kudos to you and Hobbit for trusting your intuition and knowing something was wrong. This situation could’ve turned out much, much worse. Hats off to your horsemanship and commitment to always putting your horses first. Ari will undoubtedly lead the best life with you.

[@Stahhhscreaming]

Meg, you are an amazing horsewoman and a true role model within the community. Ari is INCREDIBLY lucky to have you.

[@sebeles3003]

Well said ❤

[@charlottewiese4743]

Meg-- Beyond the tragedy of the situation, I can not express to you how incredibly fortunate you are to have found this as early as you did. For reference, I work for a hunter jumper facility in the states. This year my farm has had two discoveries of chronic "lameness" in the neck. The first was a situation that initially presented nearly identically to what you described experiencing with Ari, though this horse was a couple of years older with a show record. He was generally "lazy" at best and "clumsy" at worst, with the exception of extreme outbursts seemingly out of nowhere. The horse was worked "through" it in every instance until one day; My coworker was schooling him as usual and approached a jump, left the ground entirely normally, and was suddenly beneath the horse in a full rotational. He had failed to fully extend his front legs and neck in order to land on the backside, and subsequently rolled over his shoulder with my coworker in tow. The issue was then investigated thoroughly before an X ray revealed what was thought to be a manageable case of "wobblers", and the horse was sent to have a basket surgically placed in his neck to stabilize the vertebrae. 9 months later the horse returned to work, seemingly better, before the stumbling (previously chalked up to laziness) ensued again. A badly failed neuro exam concluded that something was seriously wrong, and our vet suspected there was a more severe disturbance in the neck. The decision to euthanize was made, and the necropsy revealed ASTOUNDING malformations in C6, C7, and the first ribs. The horse was diagnosed post-mortem with something called Equine Complex Vertebral Malformation, a lesser known yet slowly more and more prevalent condition found in sporthorses (I strongly suggest looking into it as our industry is beginning to suffer the affects over here as newer generations of horses come into work). Long story short, the horse was going to kill someone while existing in immeasurable pain had the call not been made. The second horse is a truer comparison to Ari, however-- Became more sour toward work, stopping at jumps, small indicators that were easily dismissed as behavioral. Then, once again, my coworker was on her one day cantering around in warm up when the mare buckled at the fetlock and fell rotationally. Unlike the other horse, several rounds of injections were performed for suspected arthritis in the neck before an MRI showed a narrowing of the vertebral canal. A final unsuccessful nerve injection finalized the decision to retire her, as she is entirely sound and happy to graze and be a horse for the time being. My point in all of this: As devastating as this is, and I am SO incredibly sorry you and your sweet baby are dealing with this, please know there is a massive community online dedicated to furthering awareness and research in vertebral conditions. Our farm was shocked when we first found out that issues like this even exist, and I applaud and thank you for your courage in sharing your situation. And, once again, I commend you for your respect to your animals and trust in your instinct as a horse woman. In the case of my farm and SO many others, ignorance coupled with a quickness to dismiss something as behavioral leads to tragic outcomes. Sending you and Ari the best of wishes as you navigate your journey forward ❤

[@lpswaffle9072]

Thanks for sharing, as sad as this is😪 I also had a horse, named Ari, and after circumstances much like you described with the first horse, we learned he had both spinal compression and ECVM. It was devastating. We had to let him go this past summer. I've come to learn so much about ECVM and it's incredibly sad how it affects otherwise athletic and sweet horses. I'm sorry your barn had this experience as well, but each story I hear makes me realize so many horse owners are going through this.

[@maria-k3g9u]

I'm so pleased you listen to your horses and understand that horse behaviour is mostly due to reaction to a problem/upset/pain than acting out. The behaviour is not the problem it is the outcome of a problem, the difficult thing is finding that.

[@janeminwell4395]

Well said.

[@Geeoorrggiiaa45]

Whether he has months or years left, I hope you can find some peace in knowing you were the first,last & only family he knew and loved, he had you from beginning to end ,whenever in the future that may be , which is such a special thing ❤ thinking of you Meg, and again you’re reminding us all that follow you what a role model & honest horse person you are. Take care ❤

[@sarahk1965]

I'm so sorry Meg, that must be so incredibly disappointing. Ari is so lucky to have you. 😔

[@sarbearsleeps333]

I just wanted to say that I also experience severe neck and spinal pain from injuries sustained in a car accident from 20 years ago, and I just wanted to share that it feels like raw lightening bolts are striking down through my body... I'm so sorry Meg. ❤️ I know that you know it's not Ari's fault, and I really appreciate you being such a good person and being true to him (and yourself) and communicating that. You've got my admiration and support. ♥️

[@jelphick4686]

Thank you for sharing this, that's exactly how it seemed with Ari that day in his stable, it just came out of nowhere. I hope that you are able to manage your pain x

[@cattymajiv]

I get lightning bolts too, caused by nerve damage from MS. The neck verterbra rub the damaged nerves and WHAM! But thankfully only once in a while.

[@Steph.Robinson]

I can relate to how Ari must have felt, with nerve damage in my neck from crumbling disks it's like hot pokers for me and mines constant and again like Ari nothing can be done except trying to manage the pain, operation is out of the question as its 50% I'd come out paralyzed and 25% it wouldn't make a difference, so with all the risks and only 25% that it would work I was told no surgeon would agree to those odds, especially as I was 20 at the time and things have only got worse the last 20yrs. I hope you have as much time with Ari as possible and I'm so glad you made the decision you did despite how difficult it must have been, he's lucky to have such responsible and kind people advocating for him 🤗🤗🤗

[@karachikay5759]

Well, Ari now has his job for life. Uncle Ari the baby-sitter ❤ Moose and Brego are definitely going to need adult supervision when they are weaned. The hardest part of loving animals is not being able to fix them when they need it and not being able to communicate that everything will be okay because you will make sure they are taken care of ❤

[@lilspaz68]

Nerve impingement/pain is horrible. The pain zings and can radiate all along the spine...no wonder he flipped out. I've seen other animals do this after a back injury and start biting at the end of their tail. I'm so sorry Meg but thankful you are doing the most responsible thing for him. Keeping him comfortable and happy until he's not, then letting him go 😢

[@flicksharp6746]

I think you've definitely made the right choice. We had a 5 year old who turned out to have extreme kissing spines, navicular and sacroiliac issues. 3 years of surgery and rehab with worsening behaviour was soul destroying and heartbreaking and she never recovered. Sometimes it's best to just let them be a horse for as long as they can when they're already struggling so young xx

[@WarriorBeans]

I’m sorry Meg, horses can be so amazing but it’s a reality of them. I wish you the best

[@TeamTLS101]

Awh Meg so sorry, he's such a beautiful boy 🥺. Glad you stopped and investigated rather than push through and slap the "naughty" label on like some. As sad as it is you've done right by him, and been sensible in keeping yourself (and others) safe too! Hope he stays comfortable and happy for as long as possible to enjoy his "retirement" 😊

[@beematthews7182]

Kudos to the Elphick ladies for everything to do with Ari. You have done the very best you can for him, and yourselves in that you given yourselves time to take in what has occurred and what will be. You're all incredible in how you support your animals and each other. It was not the news anyone wanted to hear but thank you, as you may have helped other owners in a similar position. Ari may only have a shortened time, but he is still beautiful and loved.

[@horsemadez0512]

I'm so sorry for you about this news, I sadly lost my boy at a very young age for the exact same medical reason and he showed very subtle to no signs. I was show jumping him two days before he was at the vets getting scans and x-rays and that was only because over night he just looked a bit off and I wanted to double check all was okay, so I can totally understand being shocked! We medicated him to try to make him as comfortable as we could to be just a field horse. I knew when the time was right to let him go as he was just in too much pain. I hope you get as long as you can with him, take each day as a blessing, again I'm so sorry for you all

[@hethacopland3713]

So very sorry Meg. He's very, very lucky to belong to you and to have you making the right decisions for him.

[@suzannechance5876]

Thank you for listening to your instincts! They tell us in so many ways that things are amiss, we just need to pay attention! And thank you for not selling him off to someone who would mistreat him. You and Hobbit have always had my respect for the lovely way you care for your horses, this just reinforces it!

[@barryandjackypowell8239]

Meg, I am so very sorry to hear about Ari's problem. Thank you for letting us know, and for taking his best interests above all else in these sad circumstances. You have my sympathy and best wishes.

[@nataliejarvis1686]

I'm so relieved for you that you have such a fab vet. It took 3 vets and about 2 years to diagnose my boy with his issues, when I was originally told it was "just how natives are". I knew he wasn't right, and my biggest regret is not pushing the vets and arguing with them more. He was similar to Ari in that he was so willing and a happy boy, it was so uncharacteristic for him to not want to go forward, but the vets just didn't understand. I was told to ride him through it, but he was my pony, I knew him best 😢. So sorry about Ari, but he is so lucky to have you and Hobbit. Thanks for sharing with us, you really are a fantastic advocate for the equestrian community.

[@steffimurphy2560]

I am so sorry that lovely little Ari has been diagnosed with such an unfortunate illness. It must be so painful for you. I just wanted to commend you on the decision to retire him and to keep him with you, it is so rare that owners commit to their horses when things go different. Thank you for being such an empathetic person and for setting the best standards of care for your gorgeous horses. sending lots of love and good thoughts for Ari and you all

[@marvelmaressso]

I'm so so sorry Meg :( As soon as I saw the title I worried immediately. All our love to you and ari and hobs and all the team ❤

[@Equestrian_loveshorses]

Same as soon as I saw the tittle I was like oh no But I thought it was something about bear

[@shellywelsh2316]

Meg, I am so sorry. A month ago I had a similar experience. My 5&1/2 year old Peruvian Paso mare that I was selling as I no longer am able to keep horses had a wonderful couple look at her. She did wonderful as usual, she was started at about 4 as she too was tiny. She was beautiful, kind, smart and wonderful. A few days after the trial she looked a bit lame. We did the pre-purchase exam and x-rays confirmed DSLD. Absolutely nothing we can do for her. I couldn't keep her and a horse with DLSD is not a horse you sell as you can't guarantee that the new owners will not try to ride her. The vets and I all got together and made the decision to put her down. On a warm summer morning she was respectfully, kindly and peacefully was put down along with my friend's 30 year gelding that was battling melanomas. The two buddies passed together and I believe are up there having a high time. Meg, I understand your pain and applaud your care for Ari ❤

[@nadia1573]

I respect both you and Hobbs so much for listening to your gut feeling. And even more respect to you both for taking responsibility for Ari, and not selling him with the risk of him being either sold on or ridden at another home. You are absolutely amazing ❤️ Ari is lucky to have you ❤️

[@izzistock6807]

You never need to apologize for taking your time to share anything, or even choosing not to share. We are all grateful to be a part of your world, but you and your animals and family are way more important. Thank you for your generosity in sharing what you do.

[@izzyr3231]

So sorry, wishing Ari the happiest days in his field, and you the strength to know when those days are over

[@janej55uk]

I had huge respect for you already especially having watched and met you at Chillington, but that was a hard video to make. Thank you for listening to your gut and putting Ari first. Big hugs.

[@jenniferhaas3874]

Thank you for sharing this with us, Meg. It’s crushing news, but so vital to stress the importance of recognizing when things aren’t quite right with our horses, and reaching out to your vet, rather than assuming they are being naughty and forcing them to work past it. You’ve been so attentive, compassionate and smart with your choices and decisions. This is a critical eye opener for all of us.

[@myrancarro]

I am so sorry Meg. It's really not something i would wish on someone but Ari is so lucky to have you and Hobbit as his owners.

[@kateschwaegerle4765]

As someone who just had to retire my 7yr old from all ridden work, I really understand and empathize with your situation Meg. We do the best we can by these horses!

[@beccaboo12795]

I am so sorry Meg. Enjoy every minute with him. Big hugs to you both.

[@DaWongStar]

That is heartbreaking but he is so lucky to have you as his people. ❤

[@KethrySapphire]

My condolences, Meg & Hobbit. You had such hopes and dreams for Ari, the grief of what might have been must be overwhelming. Holding all of you in my heart.

[@forsythia33]

That's such a shock and so difficult! My sympathies! I had a mare who had a sudden stroke while I was riding, which was scary, and though she appeared to recover after a few months of intensive treatment (she initially had full-body tremors, went blind, and had some hearing disturbances, and was struggling to keep her feet!) she appeared to become normal again. But I put her into retirement: it would be impossible to trust riding her, knowing she might or might not have another at any time. Indeed, about 6 months later she began to have intermittent attacks of loss of balance and disorientation and, with winter already underway, we decided to put her to sleep. She was a super horse, and it broke my heart. But I hope yours will be able to enjoy his good life with you for as long as is right! Hugs!

[@katiezelazny2761]

❤ feel this - we had to suddenly retire my daughters TB for similar reasons this spring. He was supposed to be her horse to take her through teenage years and college. We put enormous amounts of time and effort into him and his “behavior” got worse. As heartbreaking as it is - it was somewhat of a relief for me as a mom that there was a reason for this. He is happy on pasture. His eye is softer, he’s not as worried. Your horse was lucky to have someone as responsible as you to be his owner. Our TB was 13 and labeled as a “problem”. We attributed many of the “behaviors” to bad training and probably gave it more time than most. Thank you for talking about the hard stuff. It’s not all rainbows and happy times, but we do this for the love of the animal first - and that means making decisions right for them. Hugs to you - my daughter and I feel your sadness

[@charlie1234-n4q]

I am so sorry Meg. You and Ari will have the best time together. Make sure the make the most of the time you have with this very special pony. Go for nice, relaxing walks, give him big baths, and make sure to give him all the love that Ari needs. ❤

[@jojooffaraway2675]

I‘m so sorry to hear that. It‘s absolutely tragic. Ari is lucky to have you and you‘re an amazing horseperson for not pushing through but investigating his pain signals. I hope Ari gets to spend many more years painfree

[@kirsty-vg3xk]

You did the right thing! Horses are NOT capable of plotting against us and being deliberately "naughty" they simply don't have that part of their brain that humans do! It's always either pain, fear or not understanding!

[@RachaelAtRandom]

I'm so sorry, Meg ❤️ That really sucks. That kind of news is so awful. My first horse was diagnosed with DSLD in the first year I owned her. Only got a couple rides in on her and now she lives as a very pretty pasture ornament. It really sucks cause it feels like so much potential has gone to waste but it just can't be helped. I know it's not exactly the same scenario but I just wanted to put that out there to say you're definitely not alone in your feelings and it's a really awful scenario all over. I'm so sorry :( Just keep doing what you're doing, giving him the best life possible. He ended up in fantastic hands with you and your family ❤️ lots of love to you guys.

[@NiamhQuigley-vm9zc]

You be made the right decision Meg. Catching it early is good (although is may not feel it) you might have saved an injury. A horse on my yard had a similar problem, in his leg, and unfortunately it resulted in a bad fall. You are an incredible horsewoman and an amazing influence, you are so strong and always listen to your horses. Sending love to everyone and all your horses

[@jessiehernandez9468]

❤❤ Meg it brings our hearts in what you have to say about your horse. The good thing is you were able to catch it before it got worse. Giving your horse the best life in the following yearsIs the love that you have for your horse.❤If I own any horses and doing what you do, I would do the same. You have the support of your followers and we believe in you. You are so admired. Continuing prayers 🙏🥀🙏for you and your equine baby. Please keep us updated on his progress. You are very courageous on what you share that has been difficult. WE LOVE YOU❤🥀❤

[@haleyps6929]

I’m so sorry to hear this about Ari. I’ve had a feeling for a while that something was up with h because he’s always seemed like a willing, hard working horse. It’s a true testament to your horsemanship that you listened to him even when it seemed like “nothing” was wrong with him. Hopefully he lives a long and happy life babysitting the babies in the field.

[@clairenightmoon2979]

Poor Ari, it was a great decision to consult the vet and spend that money on these tests, i wish you the best with him, I hope this won’t bother him too much for now and let’s hope you won’t have to make that call for a long time!😢❤

[@ElizabethMoon-n8m]

This is so tough. But you and your mom are good, thoughtful, loving, and ethical horse owners. A friend of mine had a horse with severe cervical vertebrae damage; I presently have a horse that's had a bad back injury and possible brain damage from a really bad fall...and my vet and I have had the discussion about his future. Right now Tig's happy with his companion, but if his worsens....same problem, same solution. Neurological damage in horses is very tricky...and the whole situation is very sad. You and your mom both have the courage--and the good vet advice--to make the right decisions day by day. You have my admiration for this, among your other accomplishments, and my trust in you.

[@kathyclark921]

This is a video every horse owner should see. How brave and decent of you to give of yourselves at a moment we all never want to experience. Kia kaha to you and Hobbit. Stay strong. A gentle pat for Ari.

[@EquestrianEditsX]

Meg I’m so so sorry, I can’t even imagine how hard this will be for you. You are such an amazing person for helping him out so much, that’s amazing ❤❤

[@katherinestead708]

oh Meg, I'm so so sorry! how heartbreaking. It sounds like you're doing the most responsible thing.

[@dianehookham]

My heart and thoughts are with you and your mum, its never easy in a situation like this, thank you for being so strong and letting us know this awful news, going over it is never easy. I'm so glade that he's been with you with this out come for him, where he'll be loved and looked after with all his needs met. It's never easy to find out something we love so much could have there life change so dramatically. I can only imagine your feelings and hurt, we are all here for you both, xxx

[@belleboef]

Ooh noo, I'm so sorry, Meg. Let's hope he's gonna be fine and happy and pain-free for a lot of years to come! ❤

[@payntpot7623]

A short but a happy life, is what my grandmother always said to me on the farm. Our animals never went hungry, thirsty, nor wanted for anything. They were cared for and loved, then it ended. Not many in this world can be so lucky in life. You made the right call not to re-home him. I know what it is like, having had to do this with a wee horse I had a few years ago. He began to attack himself, in the paddock (he had a paddock mate for company) It got worse and worse and he started drawing blood when biting himself. I even contacted vets overseas and sent videos. In the end, I acted on their suggestions. It was the kindest thing and yet one of the hardest things I have ever had to arrange. You will know when the time is right.

[@andreanixon6213]

Thank you for sharing this very difficult news. It helps those who do not own horses realize the real struggle to care for these beautiful animals.

[@biggothepiggo]

Meg, I've been following you since the start of the pandemic and I've only ever been incredibly impressed by the level of care and compassion you provide your horses. Any horse would be so lucky to end up with you and Hobbit; basically they would be a lottery winner. How heartbreaking for you, though. The footage I've seen of him showed so much promise and I remember Lara, who was such a gorgeous, special, talented girl. But I feel as though you have done everything right here. It's just horses... I know that this is a massive disappointment for you, but honestly, I feel so grateful that he's with you because you look out for his best interest every step of the way.

[@Mixxys_Equine]

Awh I'm so sorry meg

[@altocleffcu]

I’m so sorry Meg. This is terrible news. Thank you for telling us. That was brave. I’m glad he has you.

[@sabrinaleadbeater1082]

I’m so sorry this is such heartbreaking new but well done Meg and Hobbit for putting your dreams aside to make Ari as comfortable as you can. He still has a job! He’s a very qualified baby sitter/youngster buddy. I hope for a long pain free life for him and for him to be able to look after many youngest to come.

[@plove523]

Poor Ari. Sending big virtual hugs to you and Hobs. I hope tomorrow is brighter.

[@hikori3941]

What gutting news. But good on you for listening to your horses and getting Ari checked out by the vet instead of trying to push him through the pain like so many people would. I hope Ari has many many years to come enjoying his best life in the field 💜

[@jessicacamco5047]

Can't believe someone suggested that you sell him as a paddock mate after knowing his diagnosis. People dont understand that horses are a commitment and if they get sick you cant just sell them off to make your life easier. Im glad you are doing the right thing by him ❤

[@hitsujiyume]

as i've said with regards to my cat, there's no price on peace of mind. you're doing right by him by trying not to put him in pain and not putting yourself or him in danger. seeing him in the video he looks so carefree and happy, not like he's suffering at all. i hope he has many, many years of just hanging out being a happy chill dude.

[@emily-rosecox409]

that really sucks but thankyou for being so responsible and taking care of him, too many horses are pts or in the meat market for behaviours they arent responsible for whether its pain or bad training so its nice to see someone take care of their horses even though they cannot ride him or do what they originally planned for them and still thinking of others safety too, u really are a kind and caring person and you should be very proud of your choice to protect him and others, hes such a georgous boy and will have a happy life with you. Im so sorry this has happened to u xxx

[@aidanham]

I'm so incredibly sorry to hear this Meg. There are no words to describe how hard learning about such a thing is about one of your precious babies. I had hoped and wished so much more for you and Ari but good God he's in the best of hands with you getting to enjoy his early retirement. In such a beautiful place and with so much love.

[@kiaradoesart9682]

Your response was/is one of true love Meg, I’m so glad for Ari that you and Hobbit are his humans ❤

[@luizafonseca_]

Holy shit, I am so sorry! But at the same time, I am glad he has you guys as his owners!

[@raythegoth]

I'm so sorry Meg :( that must have been really difficult to process but you and Hobs are amazing for listening to Ari and doing what's best for him. He's so lucky to have a home that puts his health and safety and the forefront of everything and will live out his days in the best home

[@aseasonedlifewithallisonde2789]

I am so sorry. There is so much to be said for owners gut feelings!! Thank you for your commitment to him and keeping him and others safe.

[@vickyfane6321]

Thank you for sharing your 'heartbreaking' news. Ari is a star in himself because of who he is and how much you love him. You had me in tears too, no shame in that because your heart is Amazing with all your ponies ! Every day touch/groom and hug him is all he needs. I have a 'pocket rock' 28 Yr old mare (speed demon to ride) I have known from day one...every day she is waiting and whining at the gate is my joy to having her in my life!!. Please keep updates and vids for us 'fans' on beautiful Ari!?

[@sabrinajackson-rq5ej]

I kinda understand what you going through, we brought a two-year-old, off a breeder that was amazing and had no idea what was happening. basically, he couldn't walk backwards and tense up when you touched him even trotting the paddock he would stop and panic, spin, and shake. no reason for it. we did everything injections, heberal, gut stuff, medication, groundwork we did everything for 15 months, we thought about keeping him as a pet or selling him to be just a pet, but he was dangerous because we just freaked out, and leap, shake, get aggressive. so we ended up putting Honey down because he wasn't happy. I'm pretty sure it's called shivers. amazing for listening and responding to Ari xx

[@matthewblum-walker4211]

You are amazing. The amount of people who would have just blamed the horse and gotten after the horse more and more vs you realizing the signs. And this isn’t me saying everyone would just get after, but it seems unfortunately to common. You are truly doing the best thing for him, and one day will be extremely sad, but all you both could have asked for was for him to be happy as long as possible 😭❤️💕

[@Imperfectequestrian1992]

I'm so sorry Meg, this is such a tough thing 😢 kudos for being such a responsible and loving owner to Ari and all of us here know you're doing the right thing for him ❤ one door closes and others will definitely open for you because you are amazing 😊

[@FoxDragon]

My heart is just breaking for you. As soon as you said what the issue was, I just knew what that prognosis would be. I'm sadly in a similar position right now with my own little pony mare due to an unfixable dental issue and I know how terribly difficult it is to even think about it, let alone explain this sort of issue to the world. It's never an easy call to make, and it will always hurt. Making the difficult choice for the right reasons doesn't make it hurt any less. Hugs to you from one horse mom to another.

[@martyp2138]

Only recently came across your channel, Meg but I'm so sorry to hear, I can't imagine how hard getting that news must have hit. However, you are a great horsewoman knowing something wasn't right and getting him checked over. Ari is so lucky to have someone like you looking out for him and will undoubtedly have a great life under your care.

[@clarestephenson3031]

My heart goes out to you and Hobbit with such bad news - the news of Ari is that of a human family member , having bred him and with such plans. I know you will do what’s right for him. It’s understandable - he’s a family member. Treat yourselves gently/ kindly at this difficult time. Love and big hugs. I do hope this message makes sense 💕xxx💕

[@morganshellswell9753]

Oh Meg and Hobbit I want to jump through the screen and give you guys a huge hug ! He’s been nothing but loved his whole life and will remain as much ❤️ you guys are doing the best by keeping him home with his friends 🫂

[@malloryalford9808]

What a heartbreaking and unfortunate experience for all - horse and human. I’m so, so very sorry to hear of this, Meg. Love him and leave him for as long as he is in good spirit and condition to just be a horse, then when the hardest decision comes to love him more than leave him…lean on your family, friends, and us as much as you need for support to guide that sweet boy into his next life. These creatures are some of the most magnificent on this earth, and I truly believe they have understandings that we cannot comprehend. He will understand your heart regardless whether he’s running in the fields or the clouds. So much love from my family to yours. ❤

[@ruthkult6536]

Oh my dear....I'm so sorry. This is clearly heartbreaking for you. Your description of his neurological challenges were clear enough to explain not only the likely cause of the original injury but also the danger going forward. That said, he's very lucky to have you and your mom in his corner. But yeah, rubbish is the best description! 💛

[@janl8683]

Such devastating news, so sorry for you and Hobbit. But can I just say you and your Mum are the best. Trusting your gut instincts that something wasn't quite right and investigating instead of listening to some people saying he was being naughty Also in taking total responsibility for him and his future wellbeing. Total and utter respect ❤😥

[@JLBjourneyy]

Oh Meg my heart breaks for you, credit to your care and responsibility for acting so quickly and coming to a decision that would be best for everyone Your horses are so lucky to have been blessed with such a loving family ❤

[@brittanykaren4474]

So sorry to here meg. Ari is such a beautiful horse and he is lucky to have you. Also please note that it was amazing that you and your mom listened to your intuition when coming to Ari.

[@theresalovell2103]

Hi Meg I have been watching your channel for years and I love how empathetic you and Hobbit are with your equine family and listen to what they are trying to tell you! So heart warming to see your decisions and how much you love Ari and put his needs before your own and so sorry you are in this situation. ❤❤❤

[@hanmariewalker6052]

I'm so sorry Meg. What devastating news. I hope he has many more happy times left ahead of him ❤ It sounds like you've made the right choices throughout!

[@madelineevans128]

Hi Meg, I am very sorry to hear the news about Ari. I feel you have made the best decision in a difficult situation to protect people and Ari at this time and you will make the best decision for Ari in the future. ❤

[@ZodiacLeopard.]

I guess with how much time he and Ace spent together Ari has all the tools to take up the mantle. He'll be the best buddy for the foals and hopefully he'll get to look after many more of them down the line

[@jeriaugustine3208]

Bless your heart! I’m so glad neither one of you were hurt. I hope things get better for you. I’m so glad you listen and pay attention to your horses. Much love sent your way❤❤️

[@allisonlaker1052]

Meg, just because you are on social media, it doesn't mean that you have to share everything with us immediately or at all. Thank you for sharing your experience, I realize how difficult that is to do. You are incredibly talented and a wonderful horsewoman, keep doing what you are doing. You care so much about your animals and they are so lucky to have your and your mum, quality of life is important. Don't let yourself burn out, self care will be important over the next while. Take care xxx

[@esiuol360girl19]

Well said! 😊

[@katherineschuette2361]

So sorry Meg ❤ You’ve done everything humanly possible for him and he’s beyond lucky to have you guys

[@rosiereed4034]

Thank you for being a responsible owner. I am so sorry for you but he has had amazing 6 years and will continue to have a loving home until the time is right to let him go xxxxxx

[@vikkineish5790]

Firstly Meg, thank you for putting this vlog out it must have been hard to do. Ari is such a stunning boy. Thankfully he has you on his side and we know that you will never part with him, until he tells you it’s time. I am praying that this is many years down the line. Ari have a great semi retirement. I can’t say full as you have got to take over from the beautiful Ace and look after those youngsters and keep them in line. ❤

[@Arionbouvier]

So sorry for you and Ari. But this video should be seen by many horse owners to raise awareness of the strange ways problems can reveal themselves and how important it is to become aware of hints at problems and how frequently behavior problems are rooted in physical pain.

[@nataliebailey6385]

I love how you will put aside your dreams to make sure your horses are living the best live (which they are!) that proves true loyalty😊

[@iridiumvalkyrie9017]

Good for you to be mature and for putting the horse first. Rather than mourning the future, celebrate what has been and the fact that you're healthy enough to continue on. Some people can't ride anymore and you can so time to move forward.

[@roguespartan1194]

Oh no, I'm so sorry Meg. Sending lots of love, for both you and Ari. 🫶🫶

[@trabash505]

I am so, so sorry, Meg. To you and Mum. I know it is much more than just your dreams being crushed but the worry for Ari and his comfort is just too much to bear. My heart is with you, Meg. ❤❤

[@Kaitotatooo]

Thank you for being a caring and responsible steward for that good boy. He’s still got a purpose and a home with you for whatever amount of time he has with you. Even unrideable I’ll bet he has plenty of soul lessons he will share while he’s with you.

[@ChloeLns]

I'm so sorry Meg. You are right, no one knows a horse better than its owner and we should all listen to our guts when we feel something is wong with our horse. Ari is really lucky to have you and I'm sure he's going to have a wonderful life by your side 🥰

[@emily-ix5it]

Oh Meg lovely, what a sad sad thing to happen. I guess this is the hard part of your job too, where you feel you have to share what is going on. I could tell how carefully you felt you had to word everything and want you to know you did such a great job communicating it all to us. We can all tell how much you love your horses and this is such a sensible decision. Sending hugs xxx

[@MaeveByTheWaves]

I’m so sorry Meg! My heart breaks for you. But good on you for trusting your gut and understanding that his behavior was a sign of pain. Truly a testament to what a great horse person you are. Sending much love ❤

[@frankharper5766]

I'm really sorry to hear this news, Ari is in the best of hands with you who loves your ponies so much and would never let them suffer and went through a tough time yourself because you were afraid you were going to hurt them. Respect, respect,

[@ElenaOostdyk]

I'm so sorry. I respect you for putting the horse first where other people would just say the horse was being "stubborn" or "rude".

[@kellymorris4864]

We’ve seen time and time again that you always do what’s best for your horses! It’s not the end of the world, as you said he’s happy as Larry in the field! He wants for nothing Some horses were meant to be ridden some are not! It’s great that you see that and not be blind in wanting the success with your homebred

[@josiemurray6767]

Aww sweetheart. My heart goes out to you. But a small blessing is that since you've bred him you know him and got him seen to in the most responsible way and now can just enjoy him being a big puppy in your care. I respect all your decisions both to get the vet out and to keep him , as the saying goes mother knows best ❤x

[@Whizzywelsh_Eventing]

So very very sorry for you all Meg, but he’s lucky to have you & your mum . You’ll know when the time is right- thinking of you xx

[@elizabethireland3192]

So sad to hear about Ari but he will have his best life with you. Thanks for making this very difficult video. Hoping it helps others to realise there is always a reason behind out of character behaviour and that being in tune with your horse is so important. Hugs xx

[@luminescentlophorina5108]

I feel so bad for you Meg. U had a horse go lame last year, his name was Dakota and he was my heart horse. I hoped everyday I would wake up, go to the barn and he would be ok. Every week my vet would tell me worse and worse news. It started as just a small tare in the muscle, then he was put in the stable to recover and he would cry every time my mare would leave the stall next to him. We decided to move a field with another horse who wound up biting him and leaving him with a nasty cut. Everyday he would get worse and worse. Luckily the owner of my barn had enough money to pay for treatment so I wound up selling him to her. It was horrible watching the uncontrollable happen to my horse. I feel for you so much, this is one of my least favorite parts of the sport even though it's so common. I'm sending you my best wishes for your future and I hope that you always know that we are here for you ❤