RIP Melman

We are so incredibly sad to be writing another RIP so soon after the loss of our police hero, Pongo. It is with the greatest of sadness that we announce the passing of Otto aka Melman, formerly of Thames Valley Police, at the age of 26.

Melman arrived with us to start his retirement in November 2012 and enjoyed close to 10 wonderful years with us kicking his hooves back with his friends. Prior to his time with us, Melman served for Thames Valley Police, policing at many football matches across the country as well as the London 2012 Olympic Games at Eton Dorney. Melman also worked on missing person and crime searches, town centre crime patrols, at concerts and rock festivals and performed security duties at Royal Ascot. He was one of the many brave horses serving at the 2011 London Riots and at Gay Pride in Brighton in 2009 and 2010. Melman also performed many state visits and military movements at Windsor.

Despite policing a large number of events, Melman was always a very nervous police horse. It was for this reason that he received his nickname, Melman, after the anxious giraffe in the film Madagascar. Due to his somewhat nervous disposition it was decided that after the London 2012 Olympic Games, Melman would be retired as he had been struggling with the mental aspect of the incredibly tough police work.

We have been so blessed to have had 10 years loving and caring for Melman in his retirement. He was always an incredibly gentle and sensitive horse and his loss has left a large hole in our hearts.

We were devastated when Melman suffered a couple of colic’s in recent weeks but we were initially encouraged when he pulled through a painful one, making a surprisingly good recovery. However, Melman was unable to respond to the treatment the final time and it was then that the team had to make the incredibly heart-breaking decision to let him go.

Melman, you have left us heartbroken. You were the sweetest, most gentle soul who quickly melted all our hearts and stayed inside them for 10 wonderful years. We had the absolute pleasure of having you in our lives and as part of The Horse Trust family for so many years. Rest in Peace sweet boy, we know you are now at ease and your duty is done. Fly high our lovely Melman, we will cherish the memories with you forever.

You can view more photos of Melman here.