08/21/2025
*We are reposting this message from our Executive Director with each individual picture so that people can save and share what they would like*
It’s with great sadness that I share the news that our beloved horse, Eddie, passed away this morning at 28 years old.
In older horses, many conditions do not show up or become symptomatic until they are too late to treat; a horse seems fine until suddenly he doesn’t, which was the case with Eddie. Thanks to our horse care team’s fast actions, we were able to get the vet out quickly this morning and keep him as comfortable as possible. From the diagnostics that were possible in the field, it was determined that he was not a candidate for further intervention, like surgery, due to his age and the desire to avoid undue stress and discomfort.
Eddie was an amazing part of the Equi-librium team for almost four years. He came to us with a uniquely impressive background as a jousting horse, and quickly became a favorite amongst instructors, volunteers, and participants due to his kind eyes and sweet demeanor. He was truly a once-in-a-lifetime horse, and we were so lucky to love him for the years we had him.
As a personal aside, Eddie has held a special place in my heart ever since his first medical scare here at Equi-librium. I had been in my role here for only two short weeks when I was faced with a tough decision during a late night veterinary emergency. As an experienced horse person, I knew that Eddie’s odds of recovery were guarded, but Eddie had already solidified himself as a barn favorite and I remember thinking “I am not going to let anything happen to this horse on my second week here!” It was to this day the best gamble I’ve taken in this role; he made it, and graced us with 3 1/2 more wonderful years, though I do joke that he had nine lives and lived them all. I’ve gotten to see countless participants achieve their goals and truly enjoy horseback riding thanks to Eddie, and I truly believe he enjoyed his time here as well.
I know Eddie will be missed by all who love him; please keep sharing stories and hold on tight to his memory.
Warm Regards,
Jessie Shappell
