Heartland says goodbye to an old friend

Dear Paint,

I know everyone at Heartland is going to miss you, but I will too. I’ve only been watching Heartland for a few years now, but I know the relationship between you and Jack has been strong for longer than that.

You were given to Jack as a retirement gift when he quit the rodeo, and the two of you struck up an incredible and enduring friendship that, sadly, ended Sunday night. The first time that you went down, I willed Ty, Amy and Jack to pull you upright. The second time you went down, I knew that was going to be the end. I’m glad Jack chose to have Ty send you on your final journey, and that you dreamed of sweet grass and sunshine on your back as you drifted away.

Your days of herding cattle with Jack is over, and you can rest overlooking the fields you worked and played in. You certainly were, as Jack said, a good boy. You were loyal, standing by Jack when he suffered a heart attack, and you were patient too. You did everything Jack asked of you, and he, your Heartland family and viewers will never forget you.

I’m closing my letter by writing out Konrad Lorenz’s quote, altered by Georgie:

‘The fidelity of a horse is a precious gift demanding no less binding moral responsibilities than the friendship of a human being. The bond with a horse is as lasting as the ties of the earth can ever be.’

Rest well, Paint. I’ll miss you.

Heartland airs Sundays at 7 p.m. on CBC.

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2 thoughts on “Heartland says goodbye to an old friend”

  1. I cried when Jack had to put his horse down.
    Theirs a special bond between an animal and their owner. Unconditional love.

  2. I never miss Heart Land we really enjoy the show.
    Was very sad when Jack had to put Paint down,
    Jack was not on the show tonight Nov.15 2015, I sure hope he is not sick
    he is my favourite on the show. I like them all Amy is a sweetheart.

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