A Salute to Pepper!

A salute to Pepper!

Pepper has been a steady part of our equine family for 15 years.  She has been there for most all of our riders at one time or another.  I don’t think there are many riders who have not ridden or groomed Pepper at least once during their therapeutic horsemanship lessons.  She is loved by all.  Pepper began having health issues about four years ago when she developed Lyme’s disease.  The next year we discovered that she has Cushings Disease, another disease that affects the joints and immune system of a horse.  Last year we discovered that she also has diabetes.  Just last week she developed an infection in her mouth due to a cut on her tongue and was unable to drink or eat on her own.  Do you think she gave up during all of this? Absolutely not!  She took her meds – not always like a good girl – but she took them, bounced back and continues to give rides to our special people.  She is tough but gentle.  She is loving and firm.  She is constant and challenging.  She is a tribute to all horses who give joy and strength to the special people in our communities that we are blessed to know.   Pepper is 20 years old and, as long as her meds are available and working, we hope that she will be able to continue to be with us for a few more years.   She is a prime example to all of us who think we can’t go on just because we hurt a little.  When you bring sunshine to others, you cannot keep it to yourself.  Thank you Pepper for shining for us!

Donations to assist with Pepper’s medical needs can be sent to Mounted Eagles, 6504 59^th Ave SW, Motley MN 56466.