RHETT BUTLER
Welcomed to the Sanctuary — January 2011
Across the Rainbow Bridge — November 2022
Donations may be made in Rhett’s name to Rosemary Farm Sanctuary, to help the next equine in need.
“The Empath”
None of us anticipated the sudden loss of our sweet sweet boy Rhett to the green fields over the Rainbow Bridge. His end was swift, he had terrific vets at his side to minimize any pain, and spent his last night at home with loved ones. An exceptionally kind soul, he was rescued from a kill dealer, and enjoyed his second half of his life beloved at Rosemary Farm Sanctuary. It was actually the third auction he was sold at, beginning with the Dixie Auction down south, and being re-sold and flipped as he made his way north with his brother. Lookalike boys, both were big, labeled “racking horses” and the story from one former owner we tracked down was that he was used in 32 team hitch once (no photo evidence ever supported the tale). Sadly he and his brother were separated at the last auction, and he was a sick and broken-hearted horse when he arrived here. Time and love slowly healed his wounds inside and out, but he was terrified of being ridden, so of course, that was off the plate.
Several years ago Rhett was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, and endured two radical surgeries and multiple rounds of chemo, to great success, and went on to enjoy complete health for another 7 years. One of the tallest horses at the Sanctuary at over 17 hands, he had various nicknames, including Doodle and Bug. Rhett was unusually empathetic with other equines, and was best friends with Jack, a senior throughbred also in his early 20’s. Always happy to groom and to visit with horses and humans, he was very popular with all.
Some horses have been part of the Sanctuary so long, it’s very difficult to imagine the place without them, and this is one.
Much love to you Bug, and hope to see you bright and shiny on the other side.