Julie Wolfert’s Buenos Aires Passes Away

Julie Wolfert and Buenos Aires at Rocking Horse II. Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com. Julie Wolfert and Buenos Aires at Rocking Horse II. Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com.

In yet another heartbreaking example of how life is truly never fair, Julie Wolfert posted on her Facebook page today that her upper-level partner, Buenos Aires, was euthanized last night. Julie enjoyed a mass of success with the 12-year-old OTTB gelding, collecting numerous top placings at the Intermediate and two-star level before making the step up to Advanced.

Julie and Aires were named to the Developing Riders/Eventing 25 training list this spring, which enabled them to travel from Kansas to Florida to partake in lessons with David O’Connor. Julie had big plans for Aires, and this is another horse that is gone far before his time.

From Julie’s Facebook:

Yesterday I had to make the hardest decision of my life. I sadly had to say goodbye to my once in a life time teammate. Aires was an incredible athlete and I’m sure it is safe to say I will never have another horse quite as neat as him. I would like to thank the wonderful staff at Wilhite & Frees Equine Hospital for all their help and support, they really are the best and understand that horses are not just animals, they are part of the family. Aires may you run free in green pastures and soar over clouds. Goodbye my friend. “No heaven can heaven be, if my horse isn’t there to welcome me.”

I spoke with Julie briefly this morning, and she said that the decision to euthanize was made after Aires had dealt with a bad bout of cellulitis. “He had a bad case of cellulitis which, due to the swelling, caused him to tear his collateral ligament. We were treating it with stem cells, but sadly we found out this week that we were losing the battle and his cartilage was failing, which was causing him pain. We were losing the battle and I had to do what was in the best interest of my horse. He was loved deeply and was the best partner one could ask for. He always gave it his all.”

Having started training with Julie recently, I did not know Aires well, but when I was near him I felt awed to be in the presence of such a wonderful horse. Even when he was recovering, he still had a mischievous spark in his eye and seemed to be wondering when he would be able to go out and attack a cross country course again.

He will truly be missed by everyone who knew and loved him, and our most sincere condolences are with Julie as she deals with the loss of her best friend. Rest in peace, Aires.

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