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Buck arrived at our sanctuary from the San Diego Humane Society on June 24, 2026. He was part of a bonded pair with the palomino mare. Buck was one of three horses we were told had significant pain and lameness. X-rays, accompanied by the evaluation of our veterinarian, and two talented farriers, confirmed that the only option to end Buck's pain was humane euthanasia.

Over the next several days, we will be posting about the losses we have had at the ranch. If you need to take a break from our social media, we understand.

As you read the stories of the residents who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge, please join us in celebrating each of these ranch residents and in sending loving goodbyes to the special souls who have graced Horses of Tir Na Nog.

On July 10 we made the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to this gelding that the Humane Society had named “Buck.” He was the sweetest gentleman. During the short time he was with us, we discovered he loved being hosed off.

Dr. Rivett was kind enough to share her thoughts on Buck. “We made the difficult decision to euthanize the buckskin gelding because of severe chronic laminitis affecting both front feet. The X-rays showed significant rotation of the coffin bone in the right front with remodeling and sinking of P3; the left front had similar but slightly less severe changes. This rotation caused major structural damage inside the hooves and unrelenting pain. Despite aggressive pain management with 4 grams of Bute daily, he remained severely lame (grade 4/5) and could not get comfortable. Even with extensive therapeutic farriery and possible surgery, the prognosis for a pain-free life was very poor. Euthanasia was the kindest choice to end his suffering.”

We wish we had more time with Buck, but we are grateful to Dr. Rivett for the compassionate care she provided him and the expert guidance she gave to us in making a very difficult decision. We are also grateful to Windansea, who arrived in 2022 from County of San Diego Department of Animal Services. She has stepped up as a devoted companion for the golden palomino mare that arrived with Buck.

Run free of pain beautiful Buck!