Today I went and said goodbye to my best friend. I was lucky enough to spend 16 of his 31 years with him. It was hard to say goodbye but his time has come; he certainly won't make it through this winter. I've watched him slowly deteriorate physically over the last 12 months, but not mentally. He's still the cranky old shit that doesn't have time for the the other horses immature crap. He taught me so much. Beng an antisocial little turd is probably one of them (Or so my mum thinks so). He put up with me dressing him up, attaching carts to him and making him drag me around on a chaff bag. Sticking chooks and Boska on his back, other kids; a few of which he got off (Much to my amusement). Hours of my ramblings, he listened. I taught him so many bad habits, he taught me just as many. He showed me true happiness.
Its a terrible thing to go to say goodbye for the last time only to be greeted with such affectionate recognition. I was glad to see his coat was matted and dirty, a sure sign that he'd been rolling in the dam, and activity he simply adored. I fed him about 15 apples, which he had trouble with and covered me in saliva in the process. A simple nudge and lick to the face sent me into tears. I haven't really stopped since. He didn't know what all the fuss was about. I hope he forgives me.
Goodbye Little Man. I will miss you so, so much.
R.I.P. Rusty
April 1st 1975 - 26th May 2006
