The Snowatch Dies Unexpectedly
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
The much loved six-year-old white Tennessee Walking Horse, The Snowatch, died unexpectedly yesterday at Rood and Riddle Veterinary Hospital in Lexington, Ky.
The horse was swimming for exercise in preparation for the upcoming Celebration when he appeared to begin experiencing discomfort. Immediately he was walked out of the water and to the barn where he continued to experience discomfort apparently in his abdomen. He was examined by Dr. Richard Wilhelm who consulted with Nolensville Veterinary Hospital before sending him to Rood and Riddle, one of the most respected equine facilities in the country.
The Snowatch arrived at Rood and Riddle, and was placed on oxygen and was under veterinary care when he died at approximately 11:00 p.m. yesterday. He was then taken to the University of Kentucky where an autopsy will be performed.
The Snowatch was owned and loved by Ashley, Carolyn and Anthony Joseph and their friends and family. He was trained throughout his career by Dick Peebles and was being readied for 2004 Celebration competition where he was to be shown by Ashley and possibly by Dick.
This year, The Snowatch had won classes at the National Trainers Show, Gulf Coast Charity, and Belfast. The Snowatch has had an illustrious career with 21 career wins and innumerable outstanding ribbons at shows across the country. He was a crowd favorite wherever he entered the ring and will be sorely missed by Peebles, the Josephs and all of his fans.