21/04/2026
Yesterday was a good day — a very good day.
Pedro is 29 this year, roughly the human equivalent of 90–100, and last night he did something I genuinely didn’t expect to see again: an hour and a half outdoors, steady, curious, and taking it all in under a very watchful eye.
Riley and I are hoping he gets one more good summer. We’ve had him for 15 years, and Riley has grown up with him. He met Pedro at three years old; he turns eighteen next month. I’m convinced that caring for his ponies is a huge part of why he’s become the responsible, hard‑working young man he is today.
The last few months have taken their toll on Pedro — especially since losing his brother, best friend and companion of 12 years, Charlie, back in October. He aged overnight. He can’t manage hay anymore. His appetite changes week to week. We’ve rugged him all winter for the first time in his life. He’s blind in his right eye. In December, the vet diagnosed him with asthma. His joints ache and he’s stiff from being in over the harshest winter months.
North West winters are relentless. This one especially — full of moments where I’ve quietly asked myself whether it was time to make the hardest call. And every time, just as we’ve prepared ourselves, he’s rallied and shown us he’s not ready yet.
Since losing Charlie, I’ve poured everything into caring for Pedro. It’s been emotionally and psychologically draining at times. But seeing him potter around last night made every tough moment worth it.
For me, this is what commitment looks like.
Taking on animals isn’t a hobby — it’s a responsibility. You show up for the good days and the frightening ones. You stay the course. You honour the promise you made, even when it’s uncomfortable, even when it’s tough.
Loyalty, dedication and consistency matter — in work, in leadership and in life.
And Pedro has been one of my greatest teachers in all three.
