Ardan, whose name means "high expectations" in Gaelic, was the 2006 offspring of  Clononeen Dunbrody and Parnell's Cahir.  Ardan, who had the big stance and sweet disposition of his sire combined with the striking coloration and easy-going nature of his dam, was sure to mature into a large, powerful Irish Cob with lots of flying hair and flashy knee action as he pulled our restored antique Gypsy wagons!

Unfortunately, Ardan was diagnosed with colic on the evening of July 30, 2008 and was taken to Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital for surgical intervention.  He fought hard for five days after surgery, but despite receiving the best medical and supportive care available, he could not recover from the damage.  We brought him home on Sunday, August 3rd, where he died peacefully among his herd, family and friends at The Irish Rose. 

Ardan was a fine young gelding, standing at just over 15 hands high as a two-year old, with so much unrealized potential.  He had the size, power and disposition that would have made him our premier driving horse for the restored Burton Gypsy wagon - a job he was born to do!  His passing leaves a big void in our hearts, even as we search for ways to celebrate his short life with us.  We are grateful for the skill and loving care of all those who tried so hard to help Ardan, including our farm veterinarian, as well as the surgeons, students and nursing staff at Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.  We thank you for your prayers and kind words for this gentle horse.

As our Irish friends say, “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam! -  May his soul be on God's right side!”