Horse loss and grief

[Muddywellies]

I recently lost my horse of a lifetime, very suddenly. Im managing to go about my daily routine and am not spending all day in floods of tears. But I feel totally empty and not loving my horse life whatsoever. Im on autopilot at the yard and have no enjoyment whatsoever. Give me some hope here - will it come back ?

 

[New Forests Rock]

Yes, it absolutely will. I had the awful job of having my 4 year old NF pts last summer, and it made me feel (for a while) that I wanted to give up. My O/H knew me better and just said "Give it time, allow yourself to grieve for the loss of such a young life, and then start looking for another". So I did, and although there are moments of sorrow (and we keep calling the new one by the previous one's name but that could just because we are old ) I can confirm that it does get easier and I am enjoying new pony immensely. Please have a xx

 

[OrangeAndLemon]

It takes a lot of time but you'll get there. The grief never leaves you but you can learn to make it a part of you and your journey.

I carry my grief with pride because it is a sign of how much I loved him.

 

[anglo]

Give yourself time . I lost my horse last year , but wont be getting another for a variety of reasons . His loss has hit me harder than previous ones and I think it is because I have also lost a massive way of life . I lost one of my previous ones in 2000 and that was awful too, but I knew I would want another and was still going to the stables evey day to look after his companion, which I think helped.

 

[Squeak]

Give it time and it will hopefully come back. It's also worth considering that this time of year isn't fun for horse ownership anyway so that could also be contributing - hopefully in the spring/ summer you'll find the enjoyment again.

It's so incredibly hard when you lose a special horse, they don't half break your heart when they go. As someone has said previously - how lucky we are to have had something that hurts so much to lose.

 

[pistolpete]

It’s really so very hard when precious horses go. They bring so much to our lives. Physically and emotionally. They rely on us so much it’s a unique relationship with each one. Know you are not alone in feeling utterly shattered by this but also know we do find a way to cope eventually. You never forget them and in time you tend to ember more of the happier times you were so lucky to have had. Sending virtual hugs.