In Loving Memory of Jeb

Dear Friends, Family, Equestrian & Animal Lovers,

Today I witnessed one of the most painful moments in my life.  Before I begin that story let me start with one which began many years ago. My fiancé, Meghan has loved horses since she was a little girl. Always inquisitive and wanting to learn more about the equestrian life, Meghan helped in any way she could. One day by a mad stroke of luck she bet her father “If I’m right I get a horse!” In typical Meghan fashion she was right. Thus began the life of Meghan and Jebby.

 In the beginning the two were not exactly peas in pod. The introduction of Meghan and Jeb proved to be one for the books. The two were very similar in nature and Jeb frequently demonstrated his free spirit.  Over time Meghan’s persistence paid off and her unrelenting heart for Jeb allowed him to grow into a gentle, loving best friend.


 As Jeb grew older he developed arthritis and ultimately required daily medication to ease his pain and allow mobility. Meghan was extremely diligent in his dosing and established a calendar to note when exactly his meds were to be administered if she was unable to do so on the days she worked. Through her unrelenting efforts Jeb continued a happy, playful life. 


 Like clockwork Meghan always made sure to spend time with Jeb. Walks, rides on Mt Diablo, playing in the round pen, or even just hanging out and watching the sunset. Being together Meghan found peace.

 


Yesterday was a day I will always remeber. Meghan received a phone call from the barn to come be with Jebby ASAP. He was not well and was rapidly worsening
despite efforts by the local veterinarian . We were advised to seek care at U.C. Davis Veterinary Clinic. Jeb was gently loaded into a borrowed trailer and slowly transported over 60 miles. Upon arriving we were greeted by an expert team of doctors and Jeb was immediately examined. Unfortunately in spite of our efforts the prognosis was not good. To my understanding a piece of Jeb’s intestine had ruptured due to a strangulated lipoma causing severe infection and necrosis to his digestive tract. Further confirmation of the doctors’ suspicion came from blood tests, an abdominal tap, ultrasound, and samples reviewed by the pathologist. At this time we were advised by the veterinarian on the outcome with varying interventions. Basically, every intervention resulted poorly for Jeb. After a long deliberation of the labs, Jeb’s condition, and his potential quality of life it was decided best he be laid to rest.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------


October 20, 2015 Jebby “Done Up in Diamonds” McCullah passed on to “The Rainbow Bridge.”

 
'There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. All the animals who have been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. Her bright eyes are intent; her eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying her faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.'




-----------------------------------------------------------------------
 
Both Meghan and I are at an utter loss. We are in the very beginnings of grieving and are weary of the road ahead. At this time, this blurb is being written without Meghan’s knowledge. My hope is to raise enough funds to assist with Jeb’s end of life care, provide an appropriate ceremony celebrating his wonderful life, and donate the remainder of the funds towards the education of the selfless, hardworking individuals at the U.C. Davis Large Animal Clinic.