Ben & Kathryn Gress, took very good care of her, and welcomed her as part of the Gress therapy animals...Dede, had her own set of problems, "older horse, no teeth in her mouth, and "a bullie" picking on the other horses, Sundance & Elle. 

     Dede, was never mean to the other animals, and had a soft spot for "Samson", the Nubian goat....All the goats would follow Dede, and she made it known that she was in "Charge" of the pasture.         

     Dede could still be ridden, at the ripe old age of 30...English
riding was her speciality, but we soon, learned that Dede had been
holding out..."She could jump." Miss Molly & Julia, and even "Darren" rode Dede. Dede was very head shy, from some past abuse to her head, but she worked with us to get her bridled up, and ready for a ride.
     Dede, was _not sick at all ever--_____one day of her 4 years at the ranch...until, 1/2/10, when she was eating for Kathryn, being hand fed, looked at her side, and then suddenly "dropped" to the ground.  It was very surprising...as she was a "picture" of good health, and many folks, would comment on how well she looked and were pleasantly surprised to learn of her age of 30's.

Dede maintained her weight good, and ate the best of everything...
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     Here is Darren, a wonderful volunteer, and great person...who cared deeply for Dede....Dede, picked Darren, to "trust", as she was abused terribly, especially around her head....Dede "loved" Darren, and Darren "loved" Dede....Darren really misses Dede.......alot..........
 
Darren, a loyal and dedicated volunteer, would frequently spoil Dede, with Dubbolin's apple and carrot treats, and hand feed her..Dede would sniff out Darren's pockets for those "dearly loved" treats. Dede trusted Darren, and that was a big step for a horse, who lost "trust" with people.
It was hard to say "good-bye" to a horse that even though, had an
attitude adjustment at the ranch, would respond favorable to people, and search her "favorite" folks out...till she found them. 
Dede, we Love You, and will miss your Whinny, and nicker sounds, at "food time." Dede, you were a great leader...and would always lead the group over to the other pasture areas.....Thanks for teaching the girls, how to ride, and keep your Buggy horse spirit, in horse heaven......We'll miss you, dearly.....and mourn your sudden and unexpected death...You remain.....forever..."Dede".

 

(article written by KG)