Our Girl Sprite...

It is amazing how much of a lasting impact horses can have on us. Almost three years after Sprite left us and this world our thoughts still turn to her...

After years of neglect and isolation, Sprite was valiantly rescued by neighbors in Santa Rosa Valley in 2011. She came to CCHR severely underweight and was barely able to stand or walk. Left numb by years of being ignored and left alone she was very quiet and still when she came to the Rescue in early 2011. With lots of love, attention, medical care and being fed a nutrient rich diet and supplements, she started to come out of her shell, bit by bit. She gained much needed weight and seemed to be so happy with her new life. She even started to show more of her naturally mischievous personality! She truly enjoyed being able to live in a community with other horses and even became pals with grouchy Cheyenne. Sprite and her other very elderly friend, Ebony, spent many happy hours together out in pasture.

Sprite was able to experience love and received tons of attention in those few months and we were devastated that in spite of everyone's excellent care and best intentions, Sprite reached the end of her life journey. Her previous years of neglect had taken too large of a toll on her body. After consulting with our veterinarian, we had to make a very difficult decision and let our Sprite go.

As we do with our dearly loved horses that must sadly make their transition, we show them how very much they are loved and Sprite received many of visitors and treats over her last few days. As much as we hated to lose her, we were comforted by the fact that Sprite spent the last few months of her life surrounded by love and left us knowing she was not alone. 

We will always remember our beautiful girl Sprite and she will continue to inspire us as we work to help horses like her experience lives filled with care, love and security. 

Sprite running free in a beautiful pasture somewhere near the Rainbow Bridge... A very moving and sweet tribute from a young CCHR volunteer.