1989-2009

By Charlene Jarabek

There are many awesome horses in the world, and many of you may have known one or two, or even owned one. My Arabian horse, Lance, was one of those “awesome” horses. And, it is now time to say goodbye.

At 6 1/2 years old, Lance pushed every button imaginable. I often threatened him with the dog food factory. Over 14 years, and with the help of the Parelli Natural Horsemanship program, our lives blended, we became partners and shared many experiences.

Lance was my “levels” horse for PNH; We passed the old Level 2 together. He was my clinic companion and partner on our trip to Pagosa Springs, Colo. He was even affectionately referred to as my “boyfriend.”

But he was not only mine. Lance was the calm, discerning trail horse who gave other horses confidence. He was everyone’s friend – good with yearlings and Minis, a gentleman in the field with the mares, loved by those who needed a safe horse to learn on and the barn greeter for Community Industries; just a nice all-around guy.

Lance kept me safe, took care of me and helped give me confidence when I needed it. We met new challenges together. He enjoyed the variety that natural horsemanship provided, and I believe he looked forward to our cowgirl camps and time spent with old traveling buddies.

Life changed for this gentle horse in 2009. He gradually developed a number of neurological symptoms that finally compromised his life. Lance was euthanized on July 20, at the age of 20.

Lance touched many lives, was loved by those who knew him and will be missed at Heartland Stables, in Custer.

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The comments on this story are written by our readers and are not necessarily the opinion of this publication or any of its sponsors.

Joe
9/26/09 - 11:51PM

Lance was great and a bg pasrt of my moms life!

 

Mia
12/13/09 - 8:48PM

When I used to ride at Heartland Stables, I love to pet Lance and tell him he was nice and such a good boy. :) I shall miss him so much.

 

Jeanette Moench
9/10/10 - 12:11AM

I need help finding the article about JOhn Telford of Oconto County. His mother Jeanette. 941-497-2802 e-mail: jancecil@verizon.net We don't get your magazine here in Fl

 

Bev
10/9/10 - 8:20AM

I think you should write a book about him. It will help the healing and who knows maybe publish it.

 

Jeanette Moench
12/25/10 - 7:50PM

It's heartbreaking when you have to put any animal to sleep. We lost our dog l year ago zzz buried him in our back yard with his name tag on a cross zzz flowers planted over him. I felt better when I look at his nice grave.

 

Danielle B
7/7/11 - 6:41AM

So sorry to hear about Lance- he was a great horse. He was so laid back and gentle, I still don't believe your stories of how naughty he was :) Beautiful article. Chynna and I are sorry for your loss.

 

Karen Grunewald
7/20/11 - 5:19PM

I did'nt know Lance or even his owner but, can appreciate how kind he was and how much appreciated and loved this horse was. I too have been fortunate to have a couple horses like this in my lifetime. May the wonderful memories of Lance live in your heart forever and may the spirit of Lance run freely in Heavens green pastures. Sorry for your loss

 

Jan Zarn
11/24/11 - 11:27AM

You are so lucky to have owned such a special horse. We consider ourselves so fortunate to have owned just one "Lance" at some time in our life. I also think that Lance was very lucky to have had you as his owner. I too have had to say goodbye to that one special horse and it is never easy. Lance will remain alive in the hearts and memories of all those who loved him.

 

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