Rest in Peace, Reg

Devastatingly, we must announce the loss of another of our herd. Former Cleveland Police horse Reg has passed away at the age of 22 years old.

Regal, better known as Reg, was a giant of a horse in every way. Standing at 18hh, this truly magnificent grey retired to us in 2013 alongside Roman, Joey and Alf when their mounted unit closed. Despite being one of the younger horses, Reg completed 5 years of active service with Cleveland Mounted Police Unit, which included all of the routine work that police horses are expected to undertake, such as crowd control at football matches, public order work at events and visibility patrols. During the 2012 London Olympics, Reg was stationed at the Olympic Park for the duration of the games. This environment was unique to even the most experienced police horses and it seems that after this exceptional assignment, Reg developed some anxieties around large crowds that meant he was ready to retire. This change in his behaviour happened to coincide with the closure of his unit and saw him join us here at The Horse Trust to reside in the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside for the rest of his days.

Reg was extremely lovable, like a big Labrador but with less spatial awareness! He had no idea how big he was and made no apologies for bopping you out of the way on occasion! He absolutely loved head scratches and could often get carried away and unbalance whoever was giving those scratches. However, if strategically placed, he could also give a great shoulder massage! He always knew his own mind, being well known amongst our team for setting his neck and determinedly walking himself wherever he desired to be when the mood struck him, regardless of where the person leading him had intended their destination to be!

As is common with our older residents, Reg suffered from arthritis in multiple joints and recently this was making it increasingly difficult for him to get around. On assessment by our exceptional veterinary team, it was concluded that there were no more treatments suitable for Reg and that the kindest thing to do would be to peacefully put him to sleep before his condition deteriorated further. Whilst we are left with a giant Reg shaped hole in our hearts, we remain dedicated to continuing our mission giving these amazing equines the most incredible retirement possible. Rest in peace, Reg. HTx