WARWICK TOLD US in January 2010 that it was time for him to go.  He had been losing weight since early spring, but turned his coat and was glossy black; it was amazing to see a 35 year old pony with a coat fit to show.

On the 23rd, he came up for his feed, but slowly and he didn't trouble to hunt the onlookers in the next door paddock off before he ate - he was not himself at all.

Our wonderful old warrior was at last feeling the burden of his years.

So tearfully, but gratefully, we let him go.  We were sad to lose him, but grateful to be able to do this

last thing for him and let him go with dignity and in peace.

The vet said one thing that I really think is true.  As hard as it is you have to let them go when it is time, if you do not do that you are holding on to them for you and not for them and it is not right or fair.

We talked about it over a glass of scotch last night and I think Rocky first came on to the place when I was four.  Given that this year I hit the big four zero it really says that he had a great and long life.

I am just glad that he was sharp and himself right up until his very last days. Not long back the cheeky bugger slipped under my elbow as I opened the gate and legged it into the wide laneway next to where he should have been with the most gleeful look on his face. "Ho ho ho, I am not supposed to be in here... no way you are catching me!" and gave me the run around for a couple of minutes before meekly going back

where he was supposed to be and demanding his dinner.  All the while with the brightest eye.

That was the hardest thing to come to terms with, even yesterday his face and eye were still indefinably but undeniably him.

Goodbye to a grand old man who was one of the very first ponies I have any memories of. I am glad I was able to be the one to do you the last possible service.

Paul Milvain

Owendale Warwick     Born 16.10.1975.

Sire: Sir Percy of Paxhall (Imp UK)

Dam: Nattai Windflower

SOD: Nattai Moonlight.

Breeder: Mrs R Owen.

Warwick has 68 progeny registered in the Stud Book. He lived 22 of his 35 years at Mithril Stud and had a grand life full of adventure.

© Chris Milvain 2012                                                    CONTACT US

Warwick in his prime, left, photo: V Hicks.

Right: Winter 2009, 34 years old.  Photo: Raz Milvain

Left: Warwick as a two year old.

Right: Paul aged six.