RIP • TEDDY - March 2024

A message from our Founder, Carlen Eckford.  I struggle to put into words the heartbreak of losing our beautiful Teddy.  Teddy was unusually striking, his coat being an India-Ink black  and white blend, and velvet ears with reddish brown. His eyes... I always loved his black eyes, so deeply beautiful.  A most kind and gentle soul,  Teddy and Polly came here together December 2020, after the loss of their owner. Teddy was hugely overweight, a mass of fat pads, and had lost over 120 lbs here at Rancho Burro, very slowly, with careful dietary management over three years. Teddy was only able to walk slowly when he arrived, but with time and rehabilitation, he was able to run with the other donkeys.  But it was Teddy’s quiet way of knowing.... he was an observer, and a lover of love,  and a caregiver to Polly, that defined  the handsome Teddy.  We always called him a sweet soul and “such a handsome boy!” Teddy also had a habit of pushing you hard with his nose.  I wish for that push right now...  I always think I will have these beautiful animals that I cherish forever, because I cannot begin to imagine my life without them. I now realize I have them for what is “their” forever,  not “my” forever.  And I suppose that is a certain gift,  isn’t it?  After all, I do have the honor of cradling their heads and telling them I love them as they take a last breath on this earth. The pain crushes my heart in my chest and it feels like it will explode.  Every time.  It does not ever get easier.  But it is an honor after all to whisper “I love you” , the last sound he will hear.....and to have kept my promise that I will take care of him for the rest of his life.  ❤️❤️❤️ 

In the last month or two, it seemed, Teddy was standing aside, content with Romeo wanting to guard Polly.
I think Teddy realized he was failing and Polly could not be left without a guardian donkey.
About four weeks ago, I had our vet do some bloodwork on Teddy, as I felt he was a bit down, but nothing specific.
His numbers were not much different than always, and no signs of infection, but still, I could feel he was changing.
I was not prepared to lose him suddenly.
I went out early morning , as usual, and he could not get up.
He was weak, obviously in pain, his gums were grayish.
Our vet was called. Teddy had no gut sounds at all. Blood test, IV pain meds, aggressive attempts to give him a chance to stand if he possibly could, but his overwhelming pain was evident. And his body was in shock and preparing to shut down.
At some point you must understand when your beloved animals have simply had enough and there is nothing more to do without causing more suffering.
We have the ability to end their suffering and pain. We must choose love and compassion, always.
It is so difficult to make this decision when your mind naturally rushes to how you ache to keep this sweet spirit in your life. But that is the selfish part.
The important part, and the real love is letting them go.....❤️